Education and Outreach
Transforming urban waterways is only half the battle - we also strive to change public perception of the river and its potential to host healthy ecosystems. Understanding the river’s potential requires connection with its past and present through education. We host a range of education and outreach programs intended to connect Chicago’s diverse communities with our floating gardens and the river ecosystems they serve.
Field Trips
We hosts hundreds of students from educational institutions around Chicago. Students of all ages are invited to the Wild Mile to learn about river ecosystems through discussion and hand-on activities. Whether through nature-based arts and crafts, viewing microbes with research-grade microscopes, or learning about local river history, students walk away with a deeper understanding of the river’s importance in our everyday lives. Field trips are always free for students and available year-round. Contact us to schedule a field trip, or click here to learn more!
Summer Workshops
Learning isn’t just for students. We seek for the Wild Mile to be an appealing gathering space for the entire community. The Wild Mile Summer Workshop series features local community mentors teaching unique lessons related to art, science, or recreation. Workshops are offered every Thursday evening, June through September. Entirely free and open to the public, participants leave with new connections, along with valuable knowledge and skills. For more information on upcoming workshops, checkout our Events page.
Outreach
Valuable, in-depth learning isn’t limited to the river - our team will come to you! Urban Rivers performs countless tabling and outreach events every year, extending our reach to parts of the city that are not aware of our community resources and ongoing mission-driven work. Get in touch with us if you’d like to see us at your next event!