Improving Health Outcomes for BIPOC Youth in South King County through Nature-Based Outdoor Programming

Grantee: Youth Experiential Training Institute (Y.E.T.I.)
Timeframe: July 2023 – June 2026 | Amount: $165,000

• Year 1: July 2023 – June 2024. Amount: $55,000
• Year 2: July 2024 – June 2025. Amount: $55,000
• Year 3: July 2025 – June 2026. Amount: $55,000

Youth Experiential Training Institute (Y.E.T.I) increases health equity in South King County by connecting underserved youth, particularly those who are low income, BIPOC, and English Language Learners, with free nature-based outdoor programs. With PHPDA funding, Y.E.T.I is expanding school-based outdoor clubs that promote physical activity, mental health, and social-emotional well-being for youth who face significant barriers to recreation access.

ELL and low income students are less likely to meet CDC physical activity guidelines due to limited access to safe outdoor spaces, financial constraints, and low participation in organized sports. These factors increase their risk for chronic health issues including diabetes, stress, and anxiety. Through hiking, snowshoeing, climbing, biking, kayaking, and environmental education, YETI provides immersive, consistent outdoor experiences that also build leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.

Y.E.T.I partners with schools in Tukwila, SeaTac, Des Moines, and Burien, including Glacier and Pacific Middle Schools, Cascade View Elementary, and Highline High School. All partner schools are located in or near King County Opportunity Areas. Programming is led by trained staff and includes mentorship from instructors and volunteers, helping youth build confidence, connection, and a positive sense of identity. Students play a central role in designing trips, and Y.E.T.I works closely with school staff, many of whom are BIPOC educators, to support academic and youth development outcomes.

In Year 2, Y.E.T.I expanded from eight to nine school-based clubs and doubled its community partnerships. Programming now serves more than 300 students, 80 percent of whom are BIPOC, 60 percent low income, and over 20 percent immigrants or refugees. New funding supported transportation, gear access, and staff growth, allowing more youth to participate in outdoor activities while strengthening program quality and staff diversity.

In Year 3, Y.E.T.I plans to maintain current programs and increase student participation to at least five percent in each partner school. The organization is also exploring expansion into Kent and Federal Way School Districts to reach more youth who experience similar disparities.

Y.E.T.I’s model centers on nature as a tool for healing, learning, and growth. By removing barriers to outdoor access and investing in the health and potential of underserved youth, Y.E.T.I is creating opportunities for lifelong wellness and resilience.

ABOUT OUR GRANTEE

Youth Experiential Training Institute (Y.E.T.I.)

Y.E.T.I.’s mission is to provide access to outdoor recreation for all youth in King County by mitigating financial, gender, and cultural barriers. Their model is simple: place caring outdoor educators into the public schools to engage youth in the possibilities that await them in our incredible public lands. Y.E.T.I believes this is the crucial missing link needed to make outdoor recreation truly accessible for all King County youth.