CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

Genesee Valley Outdoor Learning Center’s capital campaign will provide us with the resources to build for future generations. As we look ahead, we aspire to set new standards in educational excellence, leveraging innovative approaches that engage, inspire, and leave and enduring impact.

At Genesee Valley we believe in building community. This eco-conscious building has been thoughtfully designed to provide dedicated space and state-of-the art facilities for all programs to flourish. The goal is to create a harmonious space where participants can engage in learning, growth and community building.

Building Details

Increase Productive Indoor Space

  • The building will serve as a space for programming during inclement weather, meetings, conferences, private workspaces, therapeutic offices, and even more community gatherings.

    • Open office space (850 sq ft) to accommodate 20-30 staff, fostering collaboration and program planning.

    • Private offices (4 total ranging 60-120 sq ft) for confidential discussions, meetings, trainings, and virtual events.

    • Large meeting room (300 sq ft) to accommodate up to 100 people for indoor programming and community events.

    • Small meeting room (140 sq ft) to accommodate up to 20 people for smaller events and group meetings.

Year Round Programming

  • With this addition, we can extend our indoor and outdoor programming to 15,000 more participants annually — expanding our footprint to serve current and future generations of all ages.

    • Weather-Resistant Shelter: Providing a safe, warm place during severe weather, allowing the program to continue with indoor learning activities and initiatives.

    • Multipurpose Gathering Space

      • Educational Classes: CPR/ First Aid, backpacking for beginners, wellness programs

      • Professional Development: Educators, Non profit organizations, corporate leadership can utilize the space after programming at GV to invigorate their goals and missions as a team.

    • Rest Area: Comfortable shelter for recharging between outdoor sessions, especially during cold and rainy days.

    These spaces add significant value by enhancing the educational experience, supporting safety, and creating comfort, which helps participants feel more connected.

Increase Accessibility - ADA

  • As an outdoor education center, providing greater accessibility to our space is critical in our mission to serve EVERYONE!

    Physical Accessibility

    • Ramps: Install ramps with gentle slopes to make all levels of the building wheelchair accessible.

    • Accessible Restrooms: Equip restrooms with larger stalls, grab bars, and accessible sinks and counters to accommodate individuals with various mobility.

    • Non-Slip Flooring: Use non-slip flooring to provide traction, especially in areas that may be exposed to outdoor elements, such as entryways or outdoor patio.

    Enhanced Outdoor Access

    • Accessible Outdoor Seating: Provide accessible seating options outdoors, including benches with armrests, backrests, and spaces for wheelchairs.

    • Weather-Protection Areas: Create covered or sheltered spots near entry points for those who may be sensitive to weather changes.

    Training and Awareness

    • Inclusive Program Design: Ensure that activities are designed with a range of physical abilities in mind, providing alternative ways to participate when necessary.

    • Emergency Preparedness: Implement accessible emergency procedures, including alarms with visual and auditory signals and clearly marked, accessible exits.

At Genesee Valley, we believe the most profound learning happens through hands-on, real-world experiences that inspire curiosity, resilience, and growth. The Learning Garden is more than soil and seeds—it’s a living classroom where children and adults alike cultivate not just vegetables, but also a deeper connection to the natural world, to themselves, and to each other.

At Genesee Valley, we believe in the power of nature to heal, to inspire, and to connect us to something larger than ourselves. The Memorial Garden will provide a peaceful, reflective space where individuals can honor the memories of loved ones while finding solace in the beauty of the natural world.

We invite you to join our campaign; your partnership will impact future generations and further the stewardship of Genesee Valley.