Statement of the Problem

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM:

The Cottonwood Institute addresses 4 primary problems in the community:

Civic Engagement:

Problem: “While volunteerism has been increasing among young people, civic engagement has been declining.” Source: RMC Research Corporation. Civic engagement has been declining because many youth have a negative perception of volunteering and community service.

Solution: Cottonwood Institute courses make service fun through our award-winning, student-directed environmental service-learning curriculum that inspires students to change the world!

Nature Deficit Disorder:

Problem: “The term ‘nature-deficit disorder’ was coined by author Richard Louv in his book Last Child in the Woods to describe what happens to young people who become disconnected from their natural world. Louv links this lack of nature to some of the most disturbing childhood trends, such as the rises in obesity, attention disorders, and depression.” Source: No Child Left Inside.

Solution: Cottonwood Institute courses teach students how to comfortably and competently explore the outdoors by teaching environmental education and wilderness survival skills.

Narrowing Curriculum:

Problem: “Many school districts have significantly reduced the amount of class time spent on such subjects as social studies and science. Many teachers and parents also report that field trips and time devoted to outdoor learning activities have been cut to give more time to tested subjects.” Source: No Child Left Inside.

Solution: The Cottonwood Institute makes our engaging programs accessible to public schools by providing the curriculum, professional instructors, equipment, and outside funding from generous individuals, businesses, and grants.

Childhood Obesity:

Problem: “Obesity in kids is now epidemic in the United States. The number of children who are overweight has doubled in the last two to three decades; currently one child in five is overweight. The increase is in both children and adolescents, and in all age, race and gender groups.” Source: National Institute of Health.

Solution: Cottonwood Institute courses make the outdoors accessible through hikes, field trips, and overnight camping trips throughout the year.

To make a tax-deductible contribution to the Cottonwood Institute, please Click Here or mail a check made payable to Cottonwood Institute: PO Box 7067, Denver, CO 80207.