Testimonial Video
January 4, 2012
As you may know, Terri and Todd work with South Dakota Public Broadcasting to offer a LIVE Education and Outreach program which visits schools throughout South Dakota. The purpose of the program is to teach and inspire students to become closer to nature, achieving a better understanding of the animals which living amongst them, while encouraging them to get outdoors to experience what nature offers. More about this Outreach program can be seen here on the website. (Click on the “for teachers and educators” button.)
After discussing the benefits of this program with Native American leaders, it was easy for them to recognize that this is something the Native American students would really appreciate and benefit from. Whenever Terri and Todd film the TV show in Native American regions, they are welcomed like they were the Beatles! Believe me when I say that both the people of these communities and Terri and Todd themselves have a great appreciation and respect for each other.
There are currently approximately 30 Native American schools in South Dakota alone, and it is our goal at Nature Adventures to place Terri and Todd at each of them this school year. In the past 4 years they have done well over 150 schools throughout the region, and the response from these visits can be seen here on the website. The Nature Adventures hosts have even visited a couple Native schools and events in the past (for free), and the response was incredible. Normally, they have a recommended donation of $750 per school, to cover animal housing, travel, etc...and although they never charge the schools, local sponsors help cover the costs.
Unfortunately, in most Native American regions, finding local sponsors is not an option, which is why we are seeking a private donation from a corporate sponsor to cover the cost. The normal $750 will be reduced to $500 per school....which is Nature Adventures contribution and commitment to get this important mission completed. The more we raise, the more schools we can visit, with the hopes of visiting all 30 South Dakota Indian schools in the next 4 months. In order to do this, we need to raise money fast!
Obviously, this is the right thing to do. These kids deserve it and need it. They are truly forgotten in areas like Bridger, and Pine Ridge. There are many more. Not only is it the right thing to do, but it can also offer a corporation very positive press. Anytime Terri and Todd come in to town, the press is there to cover it!
It's a huge task finding the funds to do carry out our mission, but it's worth it, and we won't stop till we do. With budget cuts to education and Public Broadcasting, we are hoping a hero will come forward and help contribute to making this vision a reality that will positively impact the lives of so many.
Social media has accomplished some great things in the past 12 months. Hopefully we can use it to do something great here....something for Native American children and their communities, because it's time someone does something like this for them.
Sincerely,
Jeff Canfield, Line Producer
Nature Adventures with Terri and Todd
Personal Note from Terri and Todd:
Thanks for taking the time to read and consider this opportunity. We will never forget the program we did at the Enemy Swim school 3 years ago. It truly touched us, and well as the students. This year, putting our focus on the less fortunate areas of South Dakota is our top priority. Thank you for your support, and considering being part of this project.