The BTYCC mission statement “Getting Youth Outdoors” simply means involving kids in outdoor activities to strengthen their connection to nature and wildlife. At the BTYCC kids learn, play and explore outside through a variety of activities including birding, hiking, fishing, archery, sport shooting, hunting, kayaking and boating.
The idea behind building a community-based center is to give all kids a place to participate in outdoor activities close to home, including those who may not regularly have access to natural areas. By introducing youth to their local habitats, encouraging their curiosity and providing tools to foster their interests we are helping them develop a unique and personal relationship to the outdoors.
Partnerships between state and federal agencies, non-profits and private citizens are essential in the effort to promote the growth of the outdoor youth center concept and youth conservation programs. It is more important than ever that we make it our common mission to build youth conservation facilities in close proximity to urban areas, giving every kid the opportunity to discover the wonders of the natural world.