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Culmore Summer Adventures

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Under the leadership of FMN Jo Doumbia, FMN has supported the Culmore Teen Center and Second Story programs since 2023.
The 2025 summer program just wrapped up and Jo would like to thank the ten FMN volunteers that directly supported their outdoor activities.

Huntley Meadows view from Observation Tower – photo Jerry Nissley

This year FMN directly supported four rewarding outdoor nature programs: 1. A guided tour at Huntley Meadows Park teaching the composition and benefits of wetland environments with Sarah Mayhew, Donna Stauffer, Brian Kiviat, and Jerry Nissley. 2. A day of fishing and fun at Lake Fairfax with Rob Shapiro. 3. An always wild and exciting kayak river adventure at Riverbend Park guided by Kim Munshower, Jonathan Eskew, and Rob Warren. This was a wonderful opportunity to learn about our region’s geology, history, and river systems. 4. And last but not least, a relaxing morning of Forest Bathing at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts led by our free agent for nature, Ana Ka’ahanui, assisted by Wendy Cohen. Forest Bathing (shinrin-yoku) is the practice of spending time in nature, immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere through all sensory engagement.

Jo also sends out a hearty thank you to FCPA for generously providing access and resources at Huntley Meadows, Riverbend, and Lake Fairfax.

Please read more about the summer program, Culmore Teen Center, and efforts in Fairfax County by Second Story in the article by Annandale Today.

Cover photo – Clear wing hummingbird moth on milkweed in Huntley Meadows wetland – photo Jerry Nissley

Photo: By Jo Doumbia, FMN Culmore Teens Summer Program 2023

Fairfax Master Naturalists in the Summer – Culmore Teens Summer Nature Program

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Article and photos by FMN Jo Doumbia, FMN Outreach Committee Chair

As the warmth of summer fades, I find myself reflecting on the amazing journey 20 teens from the disadvantaged area of Culmore went through this summer as they participated in the Teens Summer Nature Camp. The camp itself was made possible via the combined energies and commitment of many sponsors with several dedicated Fairfax Master Naturalist (FMN) volunteers providing program support and guidance.

With hands-on support by FCPA, the Second Story Program at the Culmore Community Center, and the assistance FMN volunteers, we conducted nature related activities at Colvin Run, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, and Riverbend Park. We helped this youth group establish lasting positive connections with nature through activities such as orienteering, geocaching, reptile feeding, green careers discussion, and kayaking.

It was truly delightful to witness the high level of engagement on the part of the teens across the different summer activities. Their questions, comments, and concerns were right-on and not much different than those of many FMNers when first introduced to new or unknown concepts. The Culmore teens, along with the Second Story leadership, extend heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the FMN volunteers.

Photo: By Jo Doumbia, FMN Culmore Teens Summer Program 2023

Photo: By Jo Doumbia, FMN Culmore Teens Summer Program 2023

It is very rewarding just to realize the possibilities for volunteer programs like FMN, to share their enthusiasm, experience, and knowledge with those communities that have limited or no access to natural resource educational opportunities. For the Culmore teens and the FMN volunteers, this summer’s successful outreach experience just may be the beginning of more enriching educational experiences.

The continued success of programs like this, which I hope to be the first of many, depends on the sustained interest and willingness of knowledgeable volunteers. With a solid volunteer base we can help establish and support educational outreach experiences for natural resource stewardship in underserved and disadvantage communities. One of the most important connections these young people made was to realize the relationship between themselves and nature. They found enjoyment and strength through their summer journeys and experiences which may help them become better stewards of the planet.

As a follow up, and per request of the teens, we look forward to possibly offering a once-a-month nature outing. Be on the lookout for invitations to volunteer.

In closing, I want to express profound gratitude for our volunteers’ incredible support. In particular to Kim Munshower, JaneEllen Saums, Rob Warren, Jerry Nissley, and Whitney Redding, as well as to Suzanne Holland from the Hidden Oaks Nature Center.