The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the Get to Know Program are partnering to inspire connections between children in the outdoors. 

Background on the Get to Know Program

Renowned wildlife artist Robert Bateman began the Get to Know program over twelve years ago with a simple objective: to encourage youth to go outdoors and “get to know” the names of their neighbors of other species. Get to Know is committed to reaching a diverse youth audience, including many urban-based, underserved youth who may lack access to the outdoors and art and nature programs.

Background on the Get to Know Contest

The Get to Know Contest invites young people to experience nature firsthand and then share their experience by creating works of art, writing, photography, music, or video. After a decade of success in Canada, the contest expanded into California in 2009. Over the past two years, this U.S. expansion has continued with the support of leading green organizations.  In addition to NRPA, some key partners include the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, National Wildlife Federation, Wyland Foundation, Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Wildlife Habitat Council, National Recreation and Park Association, Canadian Wildlife Federation, Parks Canada, and Wildlife Habit Canada.

2012 Contest

The Contest will run from April 8 – July 15, 2012. The theme for the 2012 Get to Know Contest will be “Get to Know Your Wild Neighbors”, in keeping with the spirit of Mr. Bateman’s belief that “getting to know our neighbors of other species begins right in our own backyard.” Click here for the contest website.

For more information, please contact Shelley O'Brien at NRPA.