The Regional Outdoor Learning Network is a multi-state network development initiative funded by NOAA and the Chesapeake Bay Trust designed to advance systemic and equitable environmental literacy efforts across the Mid-Atlantic region.
Local Concepts began working on the project in 2020 to first assess stakeholder needs and goals through interviews and focus groups. Local Concepts was re-hired to provide network mindset training, coordinate network activities and facilitate a year-long process to bridge and strengthen existing networks of formal and nonformal environmental educators in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. As part of the process for bridging the state networks, Local Concepts supported each state’s development of a Network Intentions document, which describes the network vision, purpose, and participants, and serves as a foundation for developing Network Operating Procedures.
Local Concepts continues to work with ROLN to provide network development support and technical assistance for network leaders in each state, which has now grown to include Washington DC and West Virginia. We are thrilled to help convene a Network Advisory Team from across the Mid-Atlantic to share leadership and help bridge communication across the environmental literacy ecosystem.