DENVER — Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) is launching a new get outdoors campaign for kids, including a bucket list of 100 things to do before they turn 12.
The campaign is called "Generation Wild." Its part of GOCO's $25 million Inspire Initiative, with $4.3 million budgeted to this campaign over a four year time period. The organization's funding comes from lottery proceeds.
The purpose of "Generation Wild" is to encourage kids to spend more time outside and reconnect with nature, especially going into the warm summer months. Nearly all of the items on the bucket list are free, despite providing your own supplies and gear for certain activities.
GOCO is partnering with Colorado Parks & WIldlife, Boys and Girls Clubs, Denver Parks and Recreation and 261 Colorado state libraries for the campaign.
Colorado Parks & Wildlife also released a list of 101 places to take your child fishing this summer. These areas also provide an opportunity for wildlife viewing and other attractions for the entire family.
GOCO shared on average, kids today only spend 4 to 7 minutes each day in unstructured play. Research shows that children who play outside are more creative, less aggressive, less stressed, and have reduced ADHD symptoms. The campaign aims to help kids kick off a lifelong love of nature.