TheGreatOutdoors
Wilderness Inquiry provides access to the outdoors for everyone no matter their age, background and ability.
“ Inclusion is one of our main themes, and equity, and to really bring the outdoors to people that don't otherwise get there.”
Greg Lais
Connecting to Nature
Since 1978, Wilderness Inquiry (WI) has served more than half a million individuals from all walks of life. Through outdoor adventures, students gain personal growth and an enhanced awareness of the environment.
WI provides the opportunity to see the natural world from a new perspective and teaches participants how to master their environment. In turn, students gain a sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation of the outdoors.
Snapshots
Inclusion in the Outdoors
In addition to their adult trips, Wilderness Inquiry facilitates outdoor activities for urban youth, individuals with disabilities and other non-traditional users of public lands and waterways.
“ To me, it's about connecting people and having them really see the beauty of the natural world.”
Greg Lais
More Stories
2024: A Year of Partnership and Innovation
In 2024 we worked closely with various community partners such as nonprofit organizations, fundholders and fellow foundations to continue envisioning an equitable, just and vibrant Minnesota where all communities and people thrive.
View Our 2024 Year In Review
Foundations Announce $10.3 Million in 2024 Second-Round Community Grants
Grants will provide crucial funding resources to community organizations making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families across the East Metro and Greater Minnesota.
Read the announcement
Sara Ochs: Bridging Theater and Music in a New Artistic Journey
Sara Ochs is a multidisciplinary theater artist and songwriter. With support from Art in This Present Moment, Sara will be exploring her talents as a songwriter, writing new music and potentially a one woman play.
See the project
Staging Community: Building a Supportive Ecosystem for Local Theater
Learn how you can go from audience to advocate by supporting organizations like Exposed Brick Theatre.
Read More
Mother and Son Duet Bridges the Gap Between Old and New
Mothers often have close relationships with their sons, but in the case of Maria Biagetti Cortez and Vladimir Garrido-Biagetti, that bond is deeply immersed in their culture and music.
See the project
2024 Bush Prize: Minnesota Winners
Congratulations to these Minnesota nonprofit organizations recognized for their strong histories of innovation and community problem solving.
See the Winners
Engaging Communities for Change Through Grantmaking
Learn how the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation is partnering with nonprofits, donors and anti-racism advocates to make a better Minnesota in this video with President and CEO Eric J. Jolly, Ph.D.
Hear from Dr. Jolly
Songs of Connection: Conductor Strives to Desegregate the Choral Community
Music is a universal language, and no one knows that more than Ahmed Fernando Anzaldúa El Samkary.
See the project