Mission
Our mission is to deliver innovative outdoor, science-based education programs for youth to develop critical thinking skills and to inspire natural resource stewardship.
To achieve our mission, Sierra Nevada Journeys offers a range of programs in Northern California and Nevada:
Our science instructors deliver innovative curriculum for first-through-sixth-grade students, teaching in the classroom and leading one-day field science expeditions in the Reno and Sacramento areas.
Fifth and sixth-grade students and their teachers attend outdoor school program called Overnight Outdoor Learning at our Outdoor Education Camp in Portola, California. The 515-acre camp has modern facilities which accommodate 220 campers.
We train teachers on engaging STEM lessons and outdoor learning for their classrooms.
We engage families to reinforce classroom concepts through our Family STEM Nights.
We use weekends and summers to expand our reach beyond schools, working within our community to deliver camps for people with disabilities, leadership development, and group and conference programs.
At Sierra Nevada Journeys, we believe that outdoor science education is not just a luxury, but a necessity. Additionally, 56 percent of the students we serve are from low-income families and 62 percent are students of color. Fundraising growth enables us to ensure accessibility to programs for under-served students across our region.
Vision
We transform lives by building curiosity, confidence, and connections to nature, especially for students who are traditionally underserved.
Values
Equity Forward
We prioritize serving youth who have been denied access to high-quality science education and outdoor learning experiences because we believe science and nature are for everyone. We strive to become the equitable and inclusive organization that the youth of our communities deserve.
Committed to Outstanding Quality
We strive to improve through rigorous evaluations of our actions. We flexibly embrace change that makes our programs and operations better. We celebrate actions that demonstrate our commitment to excellence.
We Are Accountable
We do what we say we'll do for each other and for stakeholders. At all levels of our team, we set, commit to, and reach specific goals.
We Respect Each Other, Ourselves and Our Environment
We use supportive actions and words to positively impact our teammates; work to understand the goals and challenges of our team, participants and donors; and believe diversity of backgrounds and skills adds value to Sierra Nevada Journeys. We value sustainability; therefore, we create and cultivate stewards of natural resources.
We Provide Unforgettable Experiences
We keep participants' emotional safety, education and experience at the forefront of our actions; provide unique experiences for our participants; and show up each day ready to deliver exceptional experiences.
Code of Conduct
Sierra Nevada Journeys has established a Code of Conduct for all participants, campers, guests, and employees to uphold our values and create an equitable and safe environment.
Our History
Sierra Nevada Journeys' founder, Jonathan Mueller, reflecting on the origins of Sierra Nevada Journeys. Since this video was recorded in 2011, Sierra Nevada Journeys continues to grow and honor Jonathan's vision for an inspired and engaged youth.