We refer to any organized, youth-focused group as a “Community Partner”. These can be non-profit organizations, churches or religious institutions, after school program providers, and other types of community led groups who meet on a regular basis. 

Community Partners must apply to join the GR Outside Network. Once accepted, partners can access the following forms of support: 

• Equipment rentals from the GR Outside Gear Library

• Planning and risk management consultation

• Camping and backpacking trip support

• Staff training in equipment use, outdoor skills, and outdoor leadership

• Outdoor experiences co-led by the existing group leaders and GR Outside staff

Partners within Grand Rapids city limits can borrow equipment for FREE. Partners outside of Grand Rapids can rent equipment at a minimal cost. 

GR Outside charges an hourly staff rate for training and outings, with a lower rate available for groups located within GR city limits. We have scholarship options available for groups with limited resources.

To join the GR Outside Network, Community Partners must meet the following criteria:

1. Operate in the Greater Grand Rapids area

2. Have a primary focus on participants aged 24 or younger

3. Have a defined mission and leadership structure (501c3 status is preferred, other types of groups will be considered on a case by case basis)

GR Outside is able to offer unique support to Grand Rapids Public Schools for the 2025-26 school year through our Nature Based Education Coordinator position. This position is funded by the Cities Connecting Children and Nature Network’s Nature Everywhere initiative.

GR Outside helps GRPS teachers and staff bring learning outdoors by providing free gear, delivery, and lesson planning support. GRPS staff can join the GR Outside network to access the following:

• Equipment rentals from the GR Outside Gear Library

• Outdoor experiences co-led by teachers and the Nature Based Education Coordinator

• Planning assistance for outdoor education

• Camping and backpacking trip support

If you are interested in becoming a Community Partner, or if you work for Grand Rapids Public Schools, Click the appropriate button below to apply for partnership

Community Partners Start Here

GRPS Staff Start Here

Schools outside of the GRPS district, that are still located within the Greater Grand Rapids Area, are encouraged to email us directly to inquire about services. 

In 2016, Our Community’s Children led a community planning effort - with support from the Children & Nature Network and National League of Cities. The effort was a part of the national Cities Connecting Children to Nature Initiative. 

Learn more about Our Community’s Children and their work in Connecting Children to Nature

In 2019, Our Community’s Children was the recipient of the Outdoor Foundation Thrive Outside Grant, and closely partnered with the Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department to spearhead this initiative. The Thrive Outside Initiative was built on the foundation created by the Cities Connecting Children to Nature initiative. 

Read more about the Thrive Outside Initiative

In 2020, the Thrive Outside Gear Library began pilot programs and community outreach. 

In 2023, The Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department absorbed the work of Thrive Outside Grand Rapids and renamed the initiative “GR Outside”.