​When we first walked into an excited classroom of 25 Costa Rican kids back in 2000, to invite them to see nesting leatherback sea turtles for the first time, it was electric. The students knew they were the first, and they wanted to prove their ability. It’s been that way ever since, for 25 years and 100,000 students - as we support the next generation to learn about and protect vulnerable species and their habitats.

Some of those kids are now biologists, educators, and community members. We are grateful for each of them, and for each of you, whether you’ve been with us for years or are just joining us. Together, we are making a difference. For our planet, for our youth, for our future. 

We started EPI after experiencing a deeply engaging time in the natural world, and recognizing a great need: kids need to be outside in order to experience wonder and the opportunity to be a part of something greater than themselves. EPI heals individuals as they connect with their landscapes and communities around them. It’s a simple idea that works. We’ve each had a chance to succeed in something we thought wasn’t possible, and EPI gives students this in a powerful way, alongside incredible people in amazing places. 

Bringing communities together to appreciate and steward local landscapes is more important now than ever. Thank you for being a meaningful part of EPI’s impact.

- Julie Osborn, EPI's Founder