Connecting People with Nature: FMN Outreach in Action
Article and Photo by FMN Marilyn Parks
Connecting People with Nature: FMN Outreach in Action
Our programs could reach thousands of people and have deep impact on the community. The Outreach Committee supports volunteer activities hosted by our partner organizations, represents the chapter at public events, and creates hands-on opportunities for county residents to experience environmental science up close.
In 2025, the Committee focused on promoting awareness of Fairfax Master Naturalists and advancing our mission to preserve, protect and promote the natural habitat of Virginia.
Senior Engagement
We established a partnership with Arbor Row Senior Center in Tysons and scheduled a series of nature presentations geared to the 50+ community in the county. FMN Speakers Bureau volunteers presented engaging presentations designed toward immersing seniors in nature. Jo Doumbia presented an overview on hummingbirds; Pete Mecca spoke about living with black bears. We had an engaging discussion on turtles with Dr. Jan Wolf. Professor Mike Walker gave an overview of the naturalist, Aldo Leopold, with his in unique impersonation. Nature immersion events are currently being planned for next year. In January we will host a discussion on how and where to hike in Fairfax County. February will focus on birds you are likely to see in February and cover the basics on how to use Merlin. What nature subject are you passionate about? Would you like to share that passion by educating seniors? Begin by updating your profile in BI and join the Speakers Bureau.
Library Engagement
Fairfax County libraries host events on a range of topics of interest to the Fairfax community. These events occur in the library branches and at venues such as schools, parks, theater spaces and senior centers. Events are always free to the public, and the library outreach has recently expanded to citizen science and nature. In October, emmy award winning photographer and director, Kathryn Pasternak visited Tysons-Pimmit and offered tips on improving your own photography skills. As an FMN, Kathryn explored ways residents can contribute to the local scientific community through the app, iNaturalist.
Culmore Teens Programs
FMN Jo Doumbia, along with 10 other FMN members, supported the Culmore Teen Center and Second Story summer activities, by introducing socio-economically challenged teens to nature through lectures, nature hikes, fishing and kayaking at several FCPA parks.
Promoting our Basic Training
To expand our advertising outreach, we assisted the Training Committee by distributing awareness of the registration process of our Basic Training Course. We placed informative pamphlets at the local Fairfax County libraries. We also sent the registration details to the communication officers of all county District Supervisors asking they post our announcement in their newsletters.
Tabling Events
Tabling events involve participation in high traffic public areas to promote awareness of our cause and to engage with the public. This year, our tabling events got a fresh new look. We purchased a new exhibit tent sporting our new label and updated tablecloths to match. FMN members have been responsive to the chapter’s call for staffing these events, providing a clear call to action that is much appreciated. Tabling events have included: Mason Neck Eagle Festival, Sully Historic’s Earth Day Festival, Reston’s Walker Nature Center Spring Festival, and many more. Recognizing the value we bring, FMN is fortunate to be invited back to continue supporting our partner programs.
We are thrilled to invite you to join our committee as we work to strengthen our connection with the local community. Your fresh ideas and unique perspective will be invaluable as we plan and execute new community programs. How do you think we can best serve our community? Please share any ideas you may have for new programs or ways to improve our current efforts. We are especially interested in ideas that address specific community needs. Contact Jo Doumbia 120411tigre@gmail, Kelly Gilbert kellyjo.gilbert@gmail.com or Marilyn Parks marilynanneparks@gmail.com
