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Nevada Outdoor School Receives Funding for 15-Passenger Van to Expand Summer Camp Access
Winnemucca, NV — Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) is excited to announce the purchase of a new 15-passenger van that will help transport youth to outdoor education programs and summer camps for years to come. The vehicle was made possible through generous funding from several foundations that share NOS’s commitment to connecting young people with the outdoors.
Funding for the van came from three partners: the Frank Offenhauser Foundation, which contributed $43,000; the William N. Pennington Foundation, which contributed $20,000; and the Elko Community Foundation, which provided $5,000. Together, these contributions allowed Nevada Outdoor School to secure a much-needed vehicle. More than simply meeting an immediate transportation need, this van represents a long-term investment in Nevada Outdoor School’s ability to serve youth and families across rural Nevada. Owning a vehicle is a more cost-effective solution over time than continuing to rent vans each summer, allowing more resources to be directed toward programs and community impact. This investment will continue supporting outdoor education opportunities, reducing operational costs, and strengthening Nevada Outdoor School’s ability to serve communities for years to come.
For years, transportation has been a challenge when bringing youth from local communities to outdoor learning locations. The new van will allow Nevada Outdoor School to safely and efficiently transport campers to day camps and outdoor programs throughout Nevada.
“This van is something we have needed for quite some time,” said Melanie Erquiaga, NOS Executive Director. “Because of the generosity of these foundations, we will now be able to get more kids outdoors and ensure transportation is not a barrier to participating in our programs. We are incredibly grateful for their support.”
The van will primarily be used to transport campers to Nevada Outdoor School’s summer camps, where youth explore local landscapes, learn outdoor skills, and build a lifelong appreciation for the natural world.
About the Frank Offenhauser Foundation
The Frank Offenhauser Foundation is a private foundation based in Winnemucca, Nevada, dedicated to supporting charitable organizations and community projects. The foundation provides grants to nonprofits that strengthen communities and improve opportunities for residents throughout Nevada.
About the William N. Pennington Foundation
The William N. Pennington Foundation is a Nevada-based philanthropic organization committed to improving the quality of life for communities across the state. The foundation supports initiatives in education, health care, community services, and the arts, helping nonprofit organizations expand their impact and serve more people.
About the Elko Community Foundation
The Elko Community Foundation works to strengthen northeastern Nevada by supporting local nonprofits, charitable initiatives, and community programs. Through grants and philanthropic partnerships, the foundation invests in projects that enhance quality of life and support the long-term vitality of the region.
About Nevada Outdoor School
Nevada Outdoor School is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting people to the outdoors through education and exploration. Based in northeastern Nevada, NOS provides hands-on outdoor education programs, summer camps, and community events that inspire stewardship, curiosity, and lifelong learning in the natural world.
Anthony (Tony) Lesperance – June 25, 1935 – July 8, 2026
It is with heartfelt sadness that I share the passing of Anthony (Tony) Lesperance, prior Board Member of Nevada Outdoor School (NOS). Tony was a good man, a dear friend to me and strong advocate for NOS and I am forever grateful for his support.
Tony was a fantastic mentor and had an instrumental influence on me when I was promoted to Executive Director back in 2015. He helped me gain the confidence needed to lead this organization into the future and expand our reach further into Elko County and beyond. He once told me he thought I could squeeze a dollar out of a turnip, which he said is a necessary skill in the nonprofit world to be successful. That was a high complement from him.
His stories were always entertaining and his life experiences fascinated me. Back in 2017, Tony published the book “It Was Nevada” which is still available on Amazon today. If you haven’t read it yet, I encourage you to.
There are some very interesting facts about Nevada History, including some dark times and sinister activities going on in our state in regard to the Nevada Test Site and even some under cover work to figure out what was happening. After reading a particularly disturbing chapter in the book, I asked him how much of the book was true and based on his life and he winked at me and told me it was up to me to figure out what was true and what was fiction. I choose to believe most of it is true.
Tony was a passionate and outspoken man who was not afraid to stand up for his beliefs and for others who were experiencing agriculture, mining, water and other land and environmental issues in the West. I admired that about him.
He assisted NOS, my son Cole Erquiaga and the ATV Club, in completing the Buckskin and Table Mountain OHV Trails in the Santa Rosa Mountains, helping communicate with ranchers, installing several OHV cattle guards, signage, trail markers and a kiosk. He was so proud of the accomplishment and convinced the producers at the Reno PBS Wild Nevada Program to come and do an episode about the trail and the history of the Santa Rosas. They did, and it is one of the best memories and the most fun I had with Tony. Very entertaining! If you haven’t watched it yet, or want to see it again, you can check it out on their website here: https://www.pbsreno.org/watch/wildnevada/s4-episode12/
One other thing that I loved about Tony was his true and uninhibited love for his beautiful wife, Nancy. She was an amazing woman with a full list of her own accomplishments and history. Together, they were a kind, dynamic and influential couple.
I have the utmost respect for Tony and I’m going to really miss him, our conversations and the connection we had. Rest in peace, my dear friend. You will be forever missed by this Nevada farm girl.
In gratitude,
Melanie Erquiaga, Executive Director
Nevada Outdoor School Receives $25,000 Grant from Wavedance Fund to Support Youth Outdoor Education
June 2026, Winnemucca, Nevada — Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) is proud to announce the receipt of a $25,000 grant from the Wavedance Fund. The award will provide immediate support for Nevada Outdoor School's 2026 summer camp season, helping ensure rural youth across Nevada have access to meaningful outdoor learning experiences.
The grant exceeds Nevada Outdoor School's original request and reflects the Wavedance Fund's confidence in the organization's proven ability to create positive outcomes for rural youth while fostering environmental stewardship.
"We are incredibly grateful to the Wavedance Fund for their generous support and belief in our mission," said Melanie Erquiaga, Executive Director of Nevada Outdoor School. "This funding arrives at a critical time as we prepare to welcome campers this summer. It will help us continue providing transformative outdoor experiences that build confidence, resilience, leadership skills, and a lifelong connection to the outdoors."
In its award letter, the Wavedance Fund recognized Nevada Outdoor School's strong financial stewardship, noting that 87 percent of the organization's expenses were dedicated directly to programming during both the 2024 and 2025 fiscal years. The fund also highlighted NOS's successful partnership with AmeriCorps and its ability to maintain high-quality, locally driven programming.
The Wavedance Fund supports programs that help rural children and youth develop life skills, confidence, and resilience, particularly those who have experienced adversity or are at risk of facing challenges. Nevada Outdoor School's programs align closely with this mission by creating safe, supportive environments where youth can explore, learn, grow, and develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Each year, Nevada Outdoor School serves thousands of rural youth and community members through outdoor education programs, summer camps, field trips, stewardship projects, and community events across Nevada. Through these experiences, participants gain practical outdoor skills, build self-confidence, strengthen teamwork and leadership abilities, and develop a lasting commitment to caring for public lands and natural resources.
About Wavedance Fund
Wavedance fund provides grants to 501(c)(3) public charities, primarily in Northern Nevada. The Fund supports organizations that improve outcomes for vulnerable and at-risk children, with a particular focus on youth who have experienced neglect, abuse, trauma, or adversity. Wavedance invests in programs that help prevent future trauma while building confidence, resilience, and essential life skills. Through partnerships with innovative organizations, the fund seeks to ensure every child has access to the support, guidance, and opportunities need to reach their full protentional.
About Nevada Outdoor School
Nevada Outdoor School is a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing Time Spent Outdoors through outdoor education, community programs, stewardship projects, and youth development opportunities. Serving communities across Nevada, NOS empowers people of all ages to connect with the outdoors, develop life skills, and become responsible stewards of natural resources.
Nevada Outdoor School Receives $75,000 Grant from Nevada Gold Mines to Support Outdoor Education Acr
Winnemucca, NV – January 2026 – Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) is proud to announce it has received a $75,000 grant from Nevada Gold Mines to continue delivering high-quality outdoor education and community programs to youth and families across rural Northern Nevada. This continued investment strengthens access to hands-on learning experiences that promote health, wellness, environmental stewardship, and community connection.
The grant will support NOS’s 2025–2026 programming, including Nature in My World, a school-based outdoor education program serving K–8 students; Nature in the Park for children ages 4–7; and Nature Explorers Summer Camps for youth ages 4–17. NGM’s funding will also help sustain NOS’s growing community programs, including Outdoor Skills Workshops, Community Nature Clubs, and ongoing programs such as NOS Nomads Hiking & Walking Club, Time Spent Outdoors (TSO) Club, Young Naturalist Club, Nature Journaling Club, Homeschool Nature Club, and the Stewardship Club.
“This continued support from Nevada Gold Mines allows us to keep outdoor education accessible for rural families and schools that would otherwise have limited opportunities,” said Melanie Erquiaga, Executive Director of Nevada Outdoor School. “Together, we are helping young people build confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong connection to the natural world; while strengthening the communities we serve.”
"Outdoor education plays a critical role in building strong, healthy communities across rural Nevada,” said Henri Gonin, Managing Director for NGM. “Through our partnership with Nevada Outdoor School, we are proud to support hands-on learning opportunities that connect youth and families to the outdoors, foster environmental stewardship, and promote overall well-being."
Funding from NGM helps cover critical expenses including programming and administrative staff, educator and AmeriCorps support, facilities, supplies, transportation, and training. These resources ensure NOS can continue reaching schools and communities across wide geographic areas; often requiring staff to travel long distances to bring outdoor education directly to rural students.
Beyond youth programming, Nevada Outdoor School also provides opportunities for adults and families to increase their Time Spent Outdoors through clubs, hikes, skill-building workshops, and stewardship projects. These programs support physical and mental well-being while fostering a stronger connection to Nevada’s public lands.
With continued support from partners like Nevada Gold Mines, Nevada Outdoor School remains committed to addressing nature deficit, building environmental awareness, and creating equitable access to outdoor experiences for rural Nevadans of all ages.
About Nevada Gold Mines
Nevada Gold Mines is the largest gold-producing complex in the world and is operated by Barrick Gold Corporation. The company is committed to supporting Nevada communities through investments in education, workforce development, and environmental sustainability.
For more information about Nevada Gold Mines, visit https://www.barrick.com/English/operations/nevada-gold-mines/default.aspx
About Nevada Outdoor School
Nevada Outdoor School is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring exploration of the natural world, promoting responsible stewardship, and fostering community engagement through outdoor education programs across rural northern Nevada.
For more information about Nevada Outdoor School and its programs, visit nevadaoutdoorschool.org/home.aspx
Nevada Outdoor School Awarded $3,000 Grant by Hecla Mining Company to Support Rural Youth and Family
Winnemucca, Nevada – Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) is thrilled to announce it has received a $3,000 grant to support its programs that connect rural Nevada youth and families to the outdoors. This funding will help NOS continue its mission to inspire exploration of the natural world, responsible stewardship of our habitat, and dedication to community.
The grant will directly support NOS’s signature programs, including:
- Nature in My World, school-based outdoor learning experiences for K-8 students,
- Nature in the Park, out-of-school outdoor learning experiences for pre-k to 5th graders.
- Nature Explorers Summer Camps, outdoor adventure camps for youth ages 4-17.
Time Spent Outdoors is a key measure of the impact of NOS programs, promoting physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being while fostering a deeper connection to the natural world.
“Connection to nature is essential to the health, quality of life, and social well-being of all Americans,” said Melanie Erquiaga, Executive Director at NOS. “This support allows us to continue bringing high-quality outdoor education to rural Nevada youth and families who might not otherwise have access to these experiences.”
NOS programs serve underserved communities across Pershing, Humboldt, Lander, Elko, Eureka, and White Pine counties, providing opportunities for youth and families to explore, learn, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.
This funding continues NOS’s 20+ year commitment to rural Nevada communities, providing meaningful outdoor experiences that educate, inspire, and empower the next generation of outdoor stewards.
About Hecla Mining Company
Hecla Mining Company (NYSE: HL) is the largest primary silver producer in the United States and Canada and a leading U.S. producer of critical minerals. Founded in 1891 and headquartered in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Hecla operates mines in Alaska, Idaho, Quebec, and the Yukon Territory, with additional exploration properties across North America. The company is committed to safe, responsible mining and environmental stewardship, guided by a culture of integrity, innovation, and respect for the communities where it operates.
About Nevada Outdoor School
Nevada Outdoor School inspires exploration of the natural world, responsible stewardship of our habitat, and dedication to community. Through hands-on programming for youth and families, NOS builds outdoor skills, fosters environmental awareness, and encourages meaningful time spent outdoors.
Nevada Outdoor School Receives $2,500 Grant from i-80 Gold Corp to Support Youth Outdoor Education P
Winnemucca, NV – Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) is pleased to announce it has been awarded a $2,500 grant from i-80 Gold Corp as part of their i-80 Gold Grants for Good Giving Program. This funding will support NOS’s Youth Focused Programs which include school-based outdoor learning experiences, early childhood outdoor education, and engaging summer camps across Humboldt, Lander, and Eureka Counties.
NOS’s Youth Focused Programs are designed to increase Time Spent Outdoors (TSO) for rural Nevada youth while building environmental literacy, critical thinking, and stewardship through hands-on, place-based education. These programs serve youth ages 4 to 17 and are delivered by trained AmeriCorps Outdoor Educators who gain valuable career and workforce experience while giving back to their communities.
“We are incredibly grateful for i-80 Gold’s continued investment in our youth,” said Melanie Erquiaga, Executive Director of Nevada Outdoor School. “Their support helps ensure that kids in our rural communities not only get outside but also grow as environmental stewards and confident problem solvers.”
The $2,500 grant from i-80 Gold Corp will directly support Nevada Outdoor School in reaching over 2,000 K-4th grade students through its Nature in My World school-based Outdoor Learning Experiences (OLEs) during the academic year. Additionally, more than 500 youth ages 4-7 will participate in Nature in the Park, a program that combines movement, literacy, and outdoor exploration. The funding will also help engage over 150 youth ages 4-17 in Nature Explorers summer day and overnight camps that emphasize outdoor adventure, team building, and Leave No Trace education. Altogether, these programs will foster more than 5,500 hours of meaningful outdoor engagement for rural Nevada youth annually.
“At i-80 Gold, we believe in the impactful work Nevada Outdoor School does for children in the communities where we live and work. Their mission to inspire a love for the outdoors and foster lifelong learning aligns perfectly with our Framework for Giving, and we’re proud to support their efforts to create meaningful, hands-on educational experiences for rural Nevada youth.” — Janelle Ordal, Director of Community & Government Relations, i-80 Gold Corp.
NOS’s programs align with i-80 Gold Corp’s commitment to Education and Workforce Development by providing high-quality, experiential learning opportunities for youth while preparing AmeriCorps service members for future careers.
About i-80 Gold Corp
i-80 Gold Corp. is a Nevada-focused mining company committed to building a mid-tier gold producer through a new development plan to advance its high-quality asset portfolio. The Company is the fourth largest gold mineral resource holder in the state with a pipeline of high-grade exploration projects advancing towards feasibility and one operating project ramping-up toward steady state, all strategically located in Nevada’s most prolific gold-producing trends. Leveraging its fully permitted central processing facility following an anticipated refurbishment, i-80 Gold is executing a hub-and-spoke regional mining and processing strategy to maximize efficiency and growth. i-80 Gold’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: IAU) and the NYSE American (NYSE American: IAUX).
For more information, visit www.i80gold.com.
About Nevada Outdoor School
Nevada Outdoor School inspires exploration of the natural world, responsible stewardship of our habitat, and dedication to community. NOS delivers high-impact outdoor education programs to rural Nevada communities, offering environmental education, outdoor skills, and leadership development for youth and adults alike.
To learn more, visit www.NevadaOutdoorSchool.org.
Nevada Outdoor School Receives $5,000 Grant from Barminco to Support Outdoor Education in Elko Count
Winnemucca, NV – July 29, 2025 – Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) is proud to announce it has been awarded a $5,000 grant from Barminco through the 2025 Barminco Community Grant Program. This generous funding will directly support NOS’s youth and family programming in Elko County, empowering thousands of community members to spend more time outdoors while deepening their connection to the natural world.
The grant will support a range of high-impact educational programs, including Nature in My World school-based lessons for K–8 students, Nature in the Park out-of-school nature experiences for youth and families, Nature Explorers summer camps for youth ages 4–17, and NOS Nature Clubs such as the NOS Nomads Hiking and Walking Club and the Time Spent Outdoors (TSO) Club. Together, these programs are projected to engage over 5,000 community members and generate more than 5,500 hours of Time Spent Outdoors in fiscal year 2026.
“We’re proud to support Nevada Outdoor School and the incredible work they’re doing to connect youth and families with the outdoors,” said Elizabeth Ryser, HR Coordinator at Barminco. “At Barminco, we believe in investing in the long-term health of the communities where we work and live. Programs like these create lasting impact by inspiring the next generation, strengthening environmental stewardship, and promoting wellness through meaningful outdoor experiences.”
Nevada Outdoor School and Barminco share a common commitment to building stronger, healthier, and more sustainable rural communities. Both organizations recognize the importance of investing in youth, fostering environmental responsibility, and promoting wellness through outdoor engagement. This partnership reflects a shared vision of creating positive, lasting impact where it’s needed most, right here in Elko County.
“At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe that time spent outdoors is essential to the health, well-being, and environmental literacy of our communities,” said Melanie Erquiaga, Executive Director. “Thanks to Barminco’s support, we’re able to provide meaningful outdoor experiences that inspire kids and families to explore, learn, and care for the world around them.”
The concept of Time Spent Outdoors (TSO) serves as NOS’s primary measure of success. Research consistently shows that time in nature supports physical, emotional, and mental health, especially for youth, who are increasingly disconnected from the outdoors. In fact, children today spend less than seven minutes per day in unstructured outdoor play, while averaging more than seven hours on screens, according to the National Recreation and Park Association.
For more information about Barminco and its commitment to supporting local communities, please visit www.barminco.com.au.
For more information about Nevada Outdoor School programs or to learn how you can get involved, visit www.nevadaoutdoorschool.org.