FLAGSTAFF – The Friends of Coconino County Parks, a non-profit group in support of Coconino County Parks and Recreation, was awarded a $10,000 Community Impact Grant from New York Life to provide nature- and literacy-based afterschool programs to area youth.

The Friends of Coconino County Parks received funding to provide a nine-week, nature- and literacy-based program with educators and approximately 15 youth, ages 8-10, from Kinsey Inquiry and Discovery School and the K-21st Afterschool Program, with support from volunteers from The Literacy Center (formerly Literacy Volunteers of Coconino County).

The program began in March and runs through May 25. Youth will experience activities that focus on a nature scavenger hunt, nature-based journaling, archery, a ropes adventure course, a guided hike at local open space reserve and gardening. Volunteers from The Literacy Center will read books to the students after outdoor activities to promote enjoyment and achievement in reading. The program encourages students to be physically active and nurtures the need for children to play outdoors, with an educational component delivered through reading.

The Community Impact Grant program awards grants of up to $25,000 to local nonprofit organizations which are championed by New York Life agents and employees to serve the needs of their local communities. Since the program’s inception in 2008, 491 grants totaling more than $6.8 million have been awarded to nonprofits across the country.

The Friends of Coconino County Parks, Inc. (FCCP) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization in Arizona with the mission of supporting Coconino County Parks and Recreation Department’s efforts in the areas of land conservation, park development, volunteerism, and recreational activities. More information can be found at: http://coconino.az.gov/695/Friends-of-Coconino-County-Parks.