Meet the People Behind the Programs

The Nature Connection’s programs might appear calm and effortless from the outside—a rabbit gently placed in someone’s lap, a perfectly timed herbal scent handed to a participant, a soothing nature story shared in a quiet voice. But behind every moment is a deeply intentional team, trained not only in nature-based programming but in trauma-informed care, dementia friendly techniques, therapeutic engagement, and human connection.

Our staff are not just facilitators. They are educators, naturalists, animal handlers, artists, and healers. They understand how to read a room, notice a flicker of interest, adapt a plan on the fly, and make someone feel seen—whether that someone is a child in a therapeutic school or an elder with dementia in a memory care unit.

Take our program coordinators, for example. They’re the ones who carefully prepare each session—selecting materials that will resonate with that day's participants, adjusting for cognitive or sensory needs, and guiding volunteers in how to offer personalized attention. Their expertise lies not just in knowledge of nature, but in empathy, responsiveness, and presence.

Our volunteer coordinator ensures that every person joining our programs receives thoughtful training, mentorship, and support. And our executive director not only leads our vision, but often jumps in to support programs, animal care, and community partnerships. We're a small team—but a dedicated one.

In this kind of work, soft skills are essential. And they’re not "soft" at all. They’re specialized, refined, and hard-earned through years of experience. Every program we offer relies on deep listening, respect, creativity, and a commitment to holding space for each person’s unique needs.

We often say that The Nature Connection brings the outdoors in. But what we really bring is relationship. Our team is the reason that relationship feels safe, meaningful, and real.
Whether we’re in a memory care unit, a group home, or our own nature center on a Saturday afternoon, it’s the people behind the scenes who make those moments matter.

Call to Action:
Want to meet the team? Learn more about the people behind The Nature Connection at www.nature-connection.org, or stop by our nature center in West Concord, MA—open to the public on Saturdays from 12:00 to 4:00.