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The Blueprint Foundation Grounding Waters Mentorship
The Blueprint Foundation Grounding Waters Mentorship
Hosted by the blueprint foundation
Grounding Waters is a hands-on, nature-based mentorship program for Black and BIPOC youth (grades 6–12) that connects environmental stewardship, culture, and community through outdoor, project-based learning. Through multigenerational mentoring, civic engagement, and real-world environmental restoration work, youth explore sustainability, green building, and STEM pathways while building leadership and confidence. This year-round program strengthens connection to land and identity while exposing participants to green careers that urgently need greater representation and access. Grounding Waters empowers young people to see themselves as environmental leaders and future professionals in the green sector.
The Blueprint Foundation Programs are an opportunity for you to learn about environmental issues in the Portland Metro area, while serving the community and being mentored by Black college students, young adults, and seasoned professionals. The hands-on learning experiences are not only fun but can lead to paid internships and school credits as well.
GW Program meets on most Saturdays throughout the academic school year, and more often in the summertime. Students are encouraged and expected to participate in micro-outings and check in periodically with their mentor(s) as well, utilizing Blueprint connections and resources to increase experiential learning opportunities. Blueprint students are provided meals and transportation to and from weekly outings to eliminate those barriers to participation. Please complete this contract to sign up for the program.
Examples of Grounding Waters Activities:
– Field trips to wilderness areas (e.g., visits to the coast, rivers, forests, parks, etc. )
– Tree planting, care and maintenance
– Removal of non-native plants and habitat restoration.
– Collecting data that monitors air, soil, and water quality
– Learn about & teach elementary and middle school students about watershed health and keystone species such as salmon, beavers, and macroinvertebrates.
– Intern with local environmental nonprofits
When: April-December
Where: Lloyd Center
Serving: Grades 6-12
Service Area: Portland
Topic: Environment, STEM
Program Type: Mentorship
Cost: Free