Friends of Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

Friends of Rock Bridge Memorial State Park (FoRB) has helped the park with special events, stewardship, highway clean-up, infrastructure, protection of resources, and education. We provide nature programs to kids aged 2-18 through our Nature Detectives (ND) and Under-served Populations Outreach Program (UPOP).  Thanks to Sara Jimenez and Suzan Schuetz for implementing these programs.

This year ND served 71 participants while UPOP 382 served  by working with multiple agencies in Boone County and with help from two paid summer interns. We also purchased 30 pairs of water shoes to enable more participants to go into the water (Some children only have one pair of shoes and didn't wan to get them wet).  We also purchased new swings for the playground. FoRB started a volunteer vest program.

We’ve helped with litter pick up, exotic species removal, stream monitoring, rebuilt Hickam Cabin and provided for other infrastructure needs. Most importantly, we’ve taught basic camping skills and provided essential outdoor education, which can have a measurable beneficial impact, to over 6000 youth.

To preserve nature and the vital services it provides, it is essential that people be connected to it. The best time for that is from early childhood to late adolescence. Establishing that connection is the central goal of our programs. When these children and youth reach adulthood, they will have the will and the skills to take care of our community and the larger world to which it is connected.