Nature Everywhere

The Land Conservancy and a group of dedicated partners in our region are working together to ensure that children in Cleveland can enjoy positive experiences in nature—right in the neighborhoods where they live and learn.

As a first major milestone, our team developed Cleveland’s Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR)—a document that outlines twelve essential nature experiences every child should have, from breathing clean air to walking along tree-lined streets. During the 2024–25 school year, Renee Boronka collaborated closely with CMSD teacher Mary Kennedy-Brown and her class of twelve AP Environmental Science students at John Marshall High School. Together, they analyzed local data and composed the COBOR, which now serves as a practical framework to guide future environmental planning and nature-based programming throughout Cleveland.

On Earth Day 2025, the students, along with their teacher, proudly presented Cleveland’s Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR) to the Cleveland City Council’s Committee on Workforce, Education, Training, and Youth Development. They were joined by Matt Zone, who offered his direction and support as the students passionately advocated for the rights of Cleveland’s youth to access and enjoy nature. The young scholars delivered a powerful and inspiring presentation that highlighted their dedication, research, and belief in a healthier, greener future for all children in the city.