We’re excited to launch Moments in Nature, a campaign celebrating 25 years of connecting families to nature through 25 inspiring stories from our community.
Our journey begins with Leslie Bol, a true champion of nature and community. Leslie’s story is one of dedication, leadership, and a passion for making nature accessible to all.
Leslie’s Journey with NatureKids
- Past Chair of the Board: Leslie’s leadership helped shape the vision and direction of NatureKids BC, ensuring our programs grew in impact and reach.
- Vancouver Club Co-Leader: With creativity and commitment, Leslie organized engaging nature activities like bird banding, native plantings, and guided walks, sparking wonder in children and parents alike.
A Memorable Moment
One of Leslie’s favourite memories is of kids playing in frozen puddles during an Explorer Day at Rice Lake.
“It can be very simple, right? It doesn’t have to be something so organized,” she says, capturing the essence of how nature’s simple pleasures can create lasting impacts.
A Vision for Inclusive Nature Access
As a mother of 2, Leslie understands firsthand the benefits of outdoor experiences for families, advocating for simple, memorable adventures that bring joy and wellness. (You can find her in the image below as Vancouver’s Club Leader in 2018 leading a bioblitz with local families.) She is passionate about making nature accessible to every family, especially those new to Canada. She believes in the power of grassroots efforts to instill conservation values that align with global initiatives like “Nature Positive,” aiming to reverse nature’s decline by 2030.
| “Just time in nature for kids and family is so good for everybody. I know it’s good for me.” |
Why We’re Sharing These Stories
As we mark our 25th anniversary, Moments in Nature celebrates the NatureKids that have grown and flown, and the individuals who have made NatureKids BC a recognized leader for nature education and community building. Leslie Bol’s story exemplifies the heart and soul of our mission, inspiring us all to foster deeper connections with the natural world.