We’re on a mission to inspire youth through environmental education and outdoor adventure

Austin Youth River Watch is thrilled to launch our "Journey to the Gulf Coast" campaign. This 4-day trip offers a new and exciting opportunity for our students ages 14-18 to embark on an educational and eye-opening trip to the great Gulf Coast of Texas.

The Gulf Coast trip will be a culminating experience for our River Watchers, where many of the lessons of the past year will coalesce into a deeper understanding and appreciation for nature. By immersing our students in this coastal environment, we aim to broaden their understanding of the interconnectedness between rivers, watersheds, and the coastal ecosystem, while fostering a deep appreciation for the nature Texas has to offer.

From urban spaces to outdoor places

During this journey, our students will have the chance to explore the diverse coastal habitats, including beaches, wetlands, and estuaries. They will engage in hands-on activities such as shoreline cleanups and water quality assessments, gaining firsthand knowledge of the challenges and solutions related to coastal conservation.

Furthermore, our trip to the Gulf Coast will enable students to connect with local experts who are at the forefront of environmental conservation efforts. These interactions will provide invaluable networking opportunities, inspiring our students to pursue careers and advocacy in environmental science and policy.

Interested in creating more equitable access to the outdoors? Join us.

For many of our students, this will be their first time visiting Matagorda Bay - for some, their very first time seeing the beach. It'll be their first time seeing the ocean, fishing, and walking along the shoreline. Many of our students have never ventured outside of Austin, and few have had the opportunity to explore a whole new ecosystem. Your support would help bring those experiences to our students, and will impact a community of youth who would otherwise never have such an opportunity. By supporting our Gulf Coast trip, you have a direct hand in creating these experiences.

Our goal is to raise $10,000 to cover transportation, lodging, meals, activity fees and staff time. Every contribution, even $25, brings us closer to providing this life-changing experience for our students.

Join us in empowering the next generation of environmental leaders as they witness the wonders of the Gulf Coast and discover their own power to effect positive change. You’ll help create an unforgettable experience and ignite a lifelong passion for environmental stewardship.

To contribute to our "Journey to the Gulf Coast" campaign, please make your donation here or contact us directly.

Together, let’s create lasting memories for an emerging generation to be inspired by the beauty of our coastal ecosystem.