15 Minute Field Trips
WHAT WE DO
15 Minute Field Trips™ offers hands-on education programs at the intersection of art, community action, and the natural world. We believe art is an especially effective motivator of environmental advocacy. When we observe art in nature, and create art from nature, we develop a unique sense of unity with and protectiveness over the environment. 15 Minute Field Trips harnesses this philosophy in its virtual and in-person training sessions, designed to instill in students, youth groups, and families an appreciation for the outdoors, and empower them as environmental activists. Through frequent exposure to nature we create responsible citizens and advocates for environmental and racial justice and provide ways to reduce anxiety through the enjoyment of nature.
15 Minute Field Trips (15MFT) is an organization rooted in concepts of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Our programs, while versatile, prioritize reaching urban and BIPOC communities to help build connection with nature, understanding of local ecosystems, and the advocacy necessary to protect it all. By working in predominantly Hispanic and Black neighborhoods, such as lower South Providence, 15 Minute Field Trips is able to extend these programs to students who may otherwise lack access.
We acknowledge the ancestral homelands of Indigenous peoples in these areas, including the Narragansett, Nipmuc, Pokanoket, and Wampanoag since time immemorial, and seek their guidance in our collective efforts to preserve the environment.
The 15 Minute Field Trips Board of Directors is currently about 33% BIPOC, and of diverse age, gender, and socioeconomic status. The Board also includes those identifying as queer and of Jewish descent. All are deeply concerned about the environment.
Our organization aims to further engage in intentional JEDI work by hiring staff from within the neighborhoods we serve to assist with leading programs. Ideally we would hire a member of the South Providence community while also adding to our network of BIPOC mentors, staff, and BOD members.
15MFT does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender-identity, physical ability, or neurodiversity. We continue to adapt programs to be more accessible, including providing educational materials and invitations in Spanish, using amplified sound and windowed masks, asking if accommodations are needed on our registration forms, and having programs accessible by bus routes and ADA compliant. We are especially welcoming of people in the Autistic community.