Time flies, eh?
So while the blog has been quiet over the last few weeks, it is not due to a lack of activity. It has been pretty hectic "behind the scenes".
We have completed our paperwork to finalize our incorporation with the state -- and next is our 501 (c) 3 application with the IRS. So WILD is an official entity recognized by the state (If you feel as excited as I do -- click here).
That plus our federal employer ID number means we are inching closer to legitimacy!
We have had some wonderfully receptive meetings with various organizations too. We have 2 - 3 preschools in east Portland who are willing to have us work on some WILD adventures for their schools, and we had a meeting with the great folks over at Portland Impact and we will try to partner with them to plan and organize WILD adventures for their upcoming summer camp (with a potential to form a longer term WILD club or something similar).
Based on these meetings we have already exceeded our 6 month goals! This gives us the opportunity to plan and coordinate activities for up to 150 kids in the Portland area!
And it seems the more folks we talk to - the greater demand materializes!
And now with some pending discussions with potential sponsors and various foundations, we are even more excited about some of the services we may be able to offer in the future! (More about these as we get closer to finalizing details).
We attended an engaging and informative talk, hosted by Thomas Doherty earlier this week. The focus was a review of recent studies that have highlighted the impact that being outdoors can have on kids with ADHD. It was refreshing to be part of an active discussion on this topic and to see the work that has been (and continues to be) compiled on this topic.
All in all, it has been great to get the reactions we have received. It gives us the ability to refine our model and most importantly, gives us the belief that what we are trying to do is a worthwhile and in-demand service!
Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to listen, help and engage in our discussions!