POCO Guardians Environmental Education and New Friends Program

POCO Guardians is offered on Saturdays during the school year, thanks to a Portland Children's Levy Grant!

POCO Guardians Environmental Education, Mentorship, and Leadership Development Program

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 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.

For details, and to register:

https://forms.gle/atQCmJ9DGhDC2kT26

POCO's Liability/Photo Waiver:

https://forms.gle/QrHJJmNShvdDMy5S8

POCO Guardians is an environmental education program for children in PreK through 5th grade that blends environmental science, outdoor adventure, leadership development, a caring community, and public speaking.

Children learn directly from a diverse team of environmental professionals, such as entomologists, ornithologists, wildlife biologists, wildlife experts, park rangers, and more. Former Guardians and current students step into leadership by sharing their knowledge with peers as student teachers.

Their growth and leadership are so powerful, it inspired POCO’s founder to give a TEDx Talk in 2025 on children as environmental leaders.

This is more than a weekly day camp. It’s a space where children become confident environmental stewards and community changemakers, one week at a time.

What Happens at Guardians Weekly Sessions?

Every day begins at Columbia Cottage in Columbia Park, with a hearty buffet breakfast and a morning Friendship Circle to set the tone. Then we hit the trail for a short walk and a fun lesson before diving into our day’s theme.

Each week is unique but always acknowledges Indigenous wisdom in our lessons on:

Wetlands & Waterways
Keystone Species
Birds and Birding
Forest Ecology
About Pollinators

Activities include:

Guest instructors from a variety of environmental careers
Outdoor play and nature walks
Group conversations and leadership practice
Peer teaching by former and current Guardians
On-site hot lunches

Field Trip Highlight:
At Whitaker Ponds, children paddle on bimarans (two connected canoes) with our partners at the Columbia Slough Watershed Project. They explore the land, learn local history, and share lunch by the water. Parents are welcome to join paddling trips!

Who Can Join POCO Guardians?

Children in PreK–5th Grade

When Do We Meet?

Summer Break
Winter Break
Spring Break

Where Are We Located?

Columbia Cottage, Columbia Park
North Portland

Ready to Register?

For Winter Break - December 28, 2026 - December 31, 2026: https://forms.gle/Fdj8vEGcm7pjsmkH8

POCO's Liability/Photo Waiver:

https://forms.gle/QrHJJmNShvdDMy5S8

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