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Heather Kuhlken: Championing Outdoor Education

In a remarkable achievement, Heather Kuhlken, the founder and executive director of Families in Nature (FIN), has been awarded the prestigious Robert W. Crawford Achievement Prize for 2025 by the National Recreation Foundation (NRF). This honor, which comes with a $50,000 grant, aims to enhance FIN's outdoor education programs and nurture the next generation of grassroots ecologists.

Founded in 2008, Families in Nature is dedicated to improving outdoor literacy and conservation leadership among families and communities. Under Kuhlken’s stewardship, the organization has made significant strides, positively impacting over 32,000 individuals and providing more than 370,000 hours of outdoor learning. Moreover, FIN has successfully certified over 250 nature guides, cementing its role as a catalyst for equitable outdoor education.

During the award presentation held on October 25, 2025, in Raton, New Mexico, Sophie Twichell, NRF President and CEO, commended Kuhlken for her transformative impact. Twichell stated, "Heather Kuhlken's work exemplifies how community-driven programs can enrich young people's connections with nature. Her commitment to expanding access to high-quality outdoor learning not only stimulates curiosity but fosters a sense of stewardship among children."

The educational framework established by FIN combines hands-on, place-based learning with inclusive practices, encouraging young individuals to harness their curiosity into actionable understanding. Kuhlken’s expertise as an educator and a biologist has enabled her to advocate for environmental education at various levels, including the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s World Conservation Congress. Her upcoming book, Adventures in Ecology, scheduled for release by Texas A&M University Press in 2026, further distills the effective techniques employed by FIN, encouraging lifelong conservation habits nurtured through family and community engagement.

In expressing her gratitude for the Crawford Prize, Kuhlken remarked, "This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of countless families, educators, and collaborators who are instilling a culture of belonging in the great outdoors. With this support, we can replicate our successes sustainably and guide more families towards a richer outdoor experience."

The significance of the Crawford Prize extends beyond honoring individual accomplishments; it highlights the pressing need for young people to engage with the natural world safely. Kuhlken’s success in this endeavor aligns perfectly with the NRF's mission to promote healthy lifestyles for American families and youth through outdoor recreation.

As Families in Nature looks to the future, Kuhlken's vision remains clear: to enhance outdoor access, provide meaningful learning experiences, and cultivate responsible conservation practices among youths. Through innovative programs and community partnerships, FIN aims to foster the next generation of environmental stewards, ensuring that families can experience and appreciate the profound benefits of nature.

Heather Kuhlken's journey reflects the spirit of dedication and passion necessary for nurturing environmental consciousness and leadership in young communities. With the backing of the Crawford Prize, she stands poised to further expand the reach and impact of Families in Nature, paving the way for a brighter, more eco-conscious future.

For more information about Families in Nature and their programs, visit familiesinnature.org.