Partners
We believe we can do more when we join together in a mission to share community, wonder, exploration, nature immersion and compassion. Thanks to these generous community partners, we have been able to increase accessibility for all!
The Wilds
We are so grateful that The Wilds has donated a part of their land for our use and implementation of our programs. We could not do what we do without them!
Angie, her husband Colby, and their three kids purchased her family farm where the Red Oaks Forest School campus resides. This venture brought a 20-year family dream to life in the Red River Gorge. The Wilds is a cabin rental experience like none other around. Their community-minded approach gives you the chance to rent a cabin, explore the land, canoe and paddle, fish in your own private pond, and have nature-immersive experiences, all without leaving the property. Also, it’s just minutes from the Red River Gorge and world class rock climbing.
They partnered with us because their goals align with ours – to have reverence for our planet and to live a life richer of experience, connection, and love.
kids make it
KidsMakeIt has partnered with us on Taking Flight – Next Level. In this after-school program, students will develop stronger connections to the nature that co-exists with them. Interacting with wildlife on an up-close and personal level provides abundant opportunities for awe and wonder. These connections help to solidify or begin a lifelong relationship with nature. TFNL brings people together from all backgrounds and specifically aims to recruit students from communities historically excluded from STEM and environmental career fields. KidsMakeIt is a new STEAM learning academy in Lexington working in the north end that brings exciting and engaging STEM programs to their community.
Learn more about them here.
Pfic.org
The PFIC Advocacy and Resource Network has partnered with Red Oaks to bring the exciting world of rock climbing to our members. Through our Climbing for a Cure program, participants learn the basics of rock climbing or can sign up for guided, more advanced learning, sharing proceeds that go to support research and a cure for this very rare disease. Despite the incredibly low odds, one of our founding members has this disease. We are excited and proud to help find a cure by raising money for this cause.
Learn more about them here.
Forgotten foods farm
Forgotten Foods Farm is a small, local, organic farm in Eastern Kentucky that makes quality, delicious maple syrup and other specialty products. They graciously invite people to their farm and host educational workshops and trainings. We are so grateful that they bring their talent and expertise to help teach classes, create content, lead hikes, assist with our Bioblitz, and so much more!
Learn more about them here.
West Sixth and w6th Farm
West Sixth has been a generous supporter of Red Oaks mission for a long time, but now they have helped us bring programming to Frankfort with the use of their beautiful space! West Sixth is a huge supporter of our community. Get out to the farm or any of their locations and support them in return. Enjoy delicious craft beer and spirits from one of their many locations.
Learn more about them here.
The rafiki center
The Marafiki Center has partnered with us on Taking Flight Next Level and on various other outings. The Marafiki Center works to create opportunities for cross-cultural connection. They build bridges of mutual understanding through education, events, and advocating for improved representation of the Swahili-speaking community.
Learn more about them here.
Red River Gorgeous
Red River Gorgeous Wilderness Cabin Rentals is an eco-conscious company whose ethics and building style are reflected in their beautiful wilderness cabins and fabulous tree houses. Located in the heart of the Red River Gorge, they have something for you and your escape to nature.
As a partner, Red River Gorgeous has dedicated time, effort, equipment, support of every kind, and cabin donations to help Red Oaks raise money and keep its site in good condition.
Kentucky Waterways alliance
KWA has partnered with us on many events including Bioblitz’s, waterways clean-ups, and a watershed mural in Clay City, KY. We are thankful for their support and partnership.
Learn more about them here.
UK Ecological research station
The University of Kentucky’s Ecological Research and Education Center (EREC) Field Station has partnered with Red Oaks to offer hands-on citizen science and STEAM learning opportunities for ages 3-18 with its bird banding programs and the development of our Taking Flight Next Level program. Lead Ornithologist Dr. Dave Westneat offers his time and experience to spark wonder, curiosity, and compassion in kids.
Learn more about the EREC here.