Promoting Environmental Awareness in Kids – PEAK

Youth who develop an early appreciation for nature will be better prepared to protect and care for the outdoors as they grow older. They will also share their experiences with their peers.

One of our most effective youth outreach efforts is an educational program called Promoting Environmental Awareness in Kids – PEAK. PEAK was developed in partnership with the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics to inspire a love of the outdoors in young people while teaching them how to be responsible environmental stewards. The interactive program incorporates a series of hands-on and fun games, activities and lessons. REI employees and PEAK trainers visit classrooms, events and organizations across the country each year.

From its humble launch in 2002, last year the program reached 142,435 children nationwide — approximately half from our employee's volunteer efforts. PEAK has grown to eight modules for elementary school children and four for teens. Last year, all 12 modules were translated into Spanish.

In 2008 the PEAK program will be made available to all REI stores and PEAK trainers that have an interest in and ability to offer the teachings in Spanish.

REI PEAK Program (youth)