About Us
"There is a secret person undamaged in every individual waiting to reconnect with Nature" ~ Paul Shepard
Mission & Vision
Our mission is to draw out a child’s sense of curiosity, wonderment and receptivity. These seeds promote empathy, which is the mainstay of all relationships. The alternative--fear, mistrust and disconnection--are weeds that can result in bullying, discrimination, and violence. Thus, by emphasizing and developing pro-social skills, children are instilled with a sense of pride, cultural tolerance, and inter-connectedness.
Director
Dr. Riniti’s contributions as a child psychologist for the past 15 years affords her a unique perspective in addressing developmental issues, building and encouraging self esteem and self regard and nurturing relational skills with children and adolescents. In addition, her hands on experiences as well as background in Expressive Arts (i.e. visual arts, movement/dance, music/song) will enhance and support creative endeavors in blending and deepening the academics of conservation with plalyful, multi-media kinesthetic learning.
Dr. Riniti created and successfully directed the Circles of Compassion Program through the Santa Clara Valley Humane Society-a grant funded program connecting children survivors of abuse with animals from the Humane Society and their volunteer staff. This program was dedicated to teaching the importance of nonverbal communication, reading cues, setting healthy boundaries and developing long lasting, caring, and mutually trust-based relationships. The primary intent was to develop pro-social skills in “at risk” children, enabling them to strengthen their self-esteem and enhance positive regard towards themselves and others.
Dr. Riniti continues her interest in Humane Education in the current Turtles Together project in which she is designing school based curriculum and teaching modules that emphasize conservation of the marine turtle, respect for all living creatures, and understanding our place in the web of life.
Affiliated Organizations
Propeninsula A non-profit organization conserving the unique natural environment of Baja California. Involved in classroom and field-based educational programs serving students in San Diego, California and parts of Mexico. ( 619)-574-6643.
Daniel A. Durazo, Outreach Coordinator and Program Assistant.
Entre Amigos A volunteer, non-profit organization whose mission is to improve educational and enrichment opportunites for children of San Francisco (San Pancho), Mexico, regardless of the ability to pay. 311-258-4377. Nicole Swedlow, Director. nswedlow@gmail.com.
Aquatic Adventures Educates urban youth about science, the ocean and nature through tuition free program, creating the next generation of scientific and environmental leaders. (858) 488-3849. Shera Fisler, Executive Director.