It’s A W.I.N. Art and Wellness in Nature
Early experiences with nature and the arts have both immediate and life-long impact.
It’s A W.I.N. co-creates vital nature and arts programming for over 2,000 youth and families in the Lake County, Illinois and Greater Chicago region through a broad community partnership network.
It’s A W.I.N. engages children and their families with the natural spaces in Lake County, along with artistic experiences, self-expression, and creativity.
Developed in partnership with libraries, schools, community centers, parks, organizations, and local businesses, It’s A W.I.N. programs are culturally sensitive and community-driven, focused on the communities most impacted by environmental injustice, including Waukegan, North Chicago, Highwood, and Round Lake.
Partnership with It’s A W.I.N. supports:
The annual Nature Explorer Backpacks / Mochilas de Explorador Project!
Bringing bilingual, family-friendly programs to partner locations.
Hosting nature focused field trips and hikes in Ryerson Woods!
Providing bilingual art and music classes for parents and families at Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods.
Get Involved
Attend an It’s A W.I.N. program, event, or series.
Partner with It’s A W.I.N. to co-create community centered programming.
Support the annual Nature Explorer Backpack Project.
Donate to connect more families to nature through It’s A W.I.N.
The Nature Explorer Backpack Project provides families with bilingual tools for supporting physical and mental health amidst Lake County’s parks, preserves, and other natural areas.
Nature Explorer Backpacks / Mochilas de Explorador engagement and impact has grown each year, from 500 backpacks distributed in 2020 to 1,500 backpacks to be distributed in 2024.
Nature Explorer Backpacks / Mochilas de Explorador encourages families to explore the natural spaces around them through activities focused on nurturing wellness and creativity.
