Judy Strang, the organizing force behind it all, describes the program for elementary through high school students as “experiential education.” As she explained to the new volunteers, “We’re not about taking kids out . . . and telling them this is called that and this does that. It’s more about giving them an enriching experience where they can explore and investigate and inquire . . . and have adults with them, who are also very engaged and interested in nature, to be good models for them.”
Judy walked the volunteers through a trail telling them about lichen, poison ivy vines, various stream insects, and the difference between vascular and non-vascular plants (requirement for fifth graders to know as a part of the Virginia Standards of Learning). Volunteers were shown the different study areas, how to catch aquatic insects in the stream, and given an overall feel for what students would find during their field trips.
Then towards mid-afternoon the new volunteers were asked about their own reasons for helping this program. Peter, a new college faculty member, said the following about volunteering at Claytor: “Any program that helps kids get involved in physical activity, I’m interested in being a part of.” Linda, a woman from the community, is a volunteer because, as she puts it, “I just think there are a lot of good programs out there that can’t go unless you’ve got people to help and I’ve got the time now to help.” Also, a soon to be Lynchburg College graduate said that she is volunteering to gain experience working with kids. With all that said, this looks to be a good season for enriching lives at Claytor Nature Study Center.
By Adrienne Staab, student & intern;
Lynchburg College, April 2003