RIDEAU LAKES, May 1, 2025 – United Way Leeds & Grenville is helping 375 disadvantaged students learn and explore at Foley Mountain Conservation Area over the coming year.
The Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation (RVCF) accepted a cheque for $10,000 at the United Way’s Volunteer Breakfast in Brockville on Thursday, May 1. It will support the Foundation’s Out To Learn campaign, which removes financial barriers for priority schools so all children can access curriculum-connected outdoor education programs run by the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA).
The grant will cover tuition and bussing costs for 15 classes or 375 students. They will experience hands-on programs exploring things like pond study, survival skills, navigation, soil ecosystems and bugs on the 800-acre property just outside of Westport.
“All students deserve a chance to learn and explore in the great outdoors, no matter their financial situation,” said RVCF executive director Diane Downey. “We are so grateful to United Way Leeds & Grenville for offering more schools an opportunity to experience the magic of Foley Mountain.”
Site supervisor and educator Rebecca Whitman said it is incredible to work with students who may have never had an opportunity to learn outdoors before.
“The natural wonder these kids have for the world around them deserves to be nurtured and supported,” Whitman said. “This grant will help these students grow in so many new ways.”
Spending time in nature has been shown to improve children’s physical and mental health, increase creativity and problem-solving skills, encourage leadership skills and improve academic learning. It has also been shown to help with sleep, self-regulation and even to fend off near-sightedness.
“True equity in education means every child—regardless of background—has access to meaningful, enriching experiences that help them learn and grow,” said United Way Leeds & Grenville executive director Hailie Jack. “Outdoor learning does exactly that. It builds confidence, curiosity, and connection. Not all students have the same opportunities, and that’s something we’re working to change. We’re proud to support this program because it opens doors and levels the playing field in a very real way.”
Foley Mountain’s curriculum-connected outdoor education programs are offered throughout the entire school year for kindergarteners to Grade 12.
To learn more about the Out To Learn program visit https://www.rvcf.ca/ways-to-give/out-to-learn or contactThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
To book an outdoor education program at Foley Mountain visit https://www.rvca.ca/outdoor-education/foley-school-community-programs or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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