The POCO Guardians

POCO Guardians: Growing Young Environmental Stewards in Community

POCO Guardians is a joyful, nature-based program for children in PreK through 5th grade that blends outdoor exploration, environmental education, and creative expression, all rooted in community, equity, and belonging.

Hosted at Columbia Cottage in Columbia Park, the program offers a safe, welcoming space where BIPOC children can feel seen, supported, and free to be themselves. For kids who may feel isolated or bullied at school, POCO Guardians is a place to find connection, confidence, and joy.

Each week includes:

Outdoor learning and adventure, from bird walks and wetlands exploration to climate lessons and plant science
Daily guest teachers who introduce children to diverse, environmentally relevant careers
Shared meals prepared onsite, creating space for community, conversation, and connection
A family-friendly atmosphere, where parents and guest instructors are invited to join
Field days with paddling, hiking, and hands-on experiences in local natural areas
Creative projects that link nature with art, movement, and self-expression
End-of-week recognition, where each child is celebrated as a Guardian of the Earth

But POCO Guardians is more than just a camp. It’s a pathway to leadership. Children are encouraged to become student teachers, sharing knowledge with their peers and building confidence through mentorship. One of our current interns began as a POCO Guardian, and now serves as a student teacher and role model, gaining valuable skills in public speaking, presentation, and environmental education.

Student teachers are supported and celebrated, and their involvement deepens both their personal growth and their connection to nature.

POCO Guardians is where friendships form, families connect, and future environmental leaders take root.

Click the link/s to enroll your child for Winter Break, December 28-31, 2026

Announcing POCO’s new Saturday Guardians Program at Columbia Cottage!

POCO Guardians is a free, nine-month environmental education, mentoring, and leadership program for children and their families. Together, we'll build knowledge, confidence, friendships, and a lifelong connection to nature.

Throughout the school year, Guardians will enjoy:

Hands-on environmental education with a different nature theme throughout the year.
Inspiring guest instructors, including scientists, environmental educators, park rangers, bird experts, and other professionals.
Leadership development through mentoring and peer-led lessons taught by youth who have completed previous POCO programs.
A caring community where children and parents build lasting friendships with one another while spending meaningful time outdoors.
A professional onsite chef who prepares a hot breakfast and lunch for every child.
Outdoor clothing and gear to help children stay comfortable during the program, and continue exploring nature long after it ends.
A safe, welcoming environment where every child belongs and every question is encouraged.

But POCO Guardians is about much more than learning facts.

Every lesson in nature also becomes a lesson about life.

As we learn about wetlands, trees, and birds, we'll also talk about courage, kindness, perseverance, teamwork, responsibility, curiosity, leadership, and caring for one another. Nature has been teaching these lessons for millions of years. We simply slow down long enough to notice them.

By the end of the year, we hope every Guardian leaves knowing not only more about the natural world, but also more about themselves, their strengths, and the difference they can make in their community.

We can't wait to welcome your family into the POCO Guardians community.

To get the details or to register: https://forms.gle/MDe3ERg3t35Uj7Dp6

Page updated

Report abuse