About The Nature Connection

Founded in 1983 (formerly known as Animals as Intermediaries), The Nature Connection’s mission is to improve the wellbeing of individuals and communities through the therapeutic use of nature by bringing the outside, inside through plants, animals and natural materials to people with limited or no access to the outside world. Through regular programs delivered largely to youth at-risk, people with disabilities, and elders with Alzheimer’s/Dementia, we connect individuals with nature’s capacity to heal, teach, and create joy.

The Nature Connection’s trained staff and experienced volunteers bring educational and therapeutic nature programs to hospitals, residential schools, youth at-risk programs, special needs facilities, nursing homes, and Alzheimer’s care programs. What we present changes every visit but always combines seasonal natural materials, live animals, and hands-on activities that engage the participants and expand the boundaries of their lives.

Since our founding, The Nature Connection has provided over 15,000 connections with nature to participants in Middlesex County and the Greater Boston area. Some of our client sites have been with us for over 25 years!

We bring nature; nature does the rest.

Changing Lives – Our Impact

Many of us take nature for granted—even when it gives us so much.  When the stress of a hectic week melts away during a simple walk in the woods. When the crash of a wave, the scent of a sea breeze, and the feeling of sand between our toes restores us. When to-do lists and the urge to reach for the cell phone are suddenly forgotten and replaced by a sense of wonder on a chance encounter with a deer. Nature has the power to heal us and invigorate us. It gently focuses our minds on the present and helps us feel more alive.

Imagine what your life would be like without it… Indoors, day after day, with no spring flowers, no birdsong, no crisp fall days, or even the feeling of warm sun on your face. It’s not a life we would wish on anyone—but, unfortunately, it’s exactly the life that’s been dealt to too many. The Nature Connection brings the sounds, smells, textures, and sights of nature indoors for those with limited access to experience the transformative presence of nature.

The Work of The Nature Connection, 2012