As Green Foothills concludes our Healing in Nature program, we reflect with deep gratitude and pride on what we’ve learned, built, and shared. Supported by generous funding from the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority and San Mateo County District 3, this program was more than just a series of outings, it was a bold step toward creating a conservation movement that prioritizes inclusion and justice.

Over the past two years, we hosted eleven special Healing in Nature outings that offered deeply intentional experiences for veterans, farmworkers, Spanish-speakers, families, seniors, and system-engaged youth. For many of them, these outings were the first time they had connected with nature in such a unique way. From our mud-soaked boots squelching through the trails to observe native wildflowers in bloom and tule elk at Máyyan ‘Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve, to the coastal prairies and misty sea cliffs of the awe-inspiring Jean Lauer Trail at Pillar Point Bluff, our adventures were as immersive as they were educational. Every step brought us closer to the vibrant life of these landscapes and to honoring the stories and footsteps of those who came before us.

These outings made a lasting impression on participants –  98% said they learned something new about the natural world and 92% felt inspired to get more involved in the conservation community. One participant called the experience “fabulous and super educational,” appreciating the chance to gain deeper knowledge of local flora and fauna. Another described it as an “inspirational and informative hike.” These powerful moments show that connecting with nature can lead to a lasting commitment to protect these special places.

Rooted in Gratitude

Green Foothills started the Healing in Nature series in 2022 because healing is something everyone can relate to, no matter their background or life experience. It’s a powerful and meaningful way to bring people together. It was inspired by a call to action from the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band’s Chairman, Valentin Lopez, who challenges both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to focus on healing their relationship with themselves, with one another, and with the earth.

Yet, while the outdoors has long been a place of restoration, for too many communities, especially communities of color, access to these spaces has been limited by systemic barriers, historical exclusion, and a lack of cultural representation in environmental work. Healing in Nature was created to help change that narrative, and we are proud of the progress we have made.

As part of our inclusive and culturally responsive programming, our docents received cultural mindfulness best practices, and we recruited and compensated three docents of color, including one Spanish speaker. These actions are part of something much bigger, representing the cultural shift happening in the conservation movement, where equity is not a footnote, but a foundation.

Healing in Nature is concluding, but the relationships it nurtured and the insights it provided will continue to shape our work. We’re immensely grateful to our knowledgeable docents, caring earth healers Smita Garg, Amari Thomas, and Kira White, and the many participants who walked this trail with us. Together, we created something beautiful — a lasting reminder that healing, in both people and places, begins with connection and belonging.

We’re continuing other kinds of hikes and outings so stay connected with us for the latest events.