We’re a Toronto-based charitable organization dedicated to helping people, particularly children and youth, build strong, lasting connections with nature.

Since 2008, Pine has grown to become Ontario’s leading nature connection organization. We offer year-round outdoor programs designed to nurture curiosity, confidence, and community. From school year programs and day camps to overnight adventures and adult workshops, our forest school programs reach over 2,500 participants each year across more than 230 days.

Our programs foster confidence, resilience, learning and a deep connection with nature in a way that is hard to achieve in more conventional learning environments. Learn more about our unique approach.

By helping children connect to nature and teaching adults to do the same, we’re growing happier, healthier children who care for the Earth. We’re empowering the next generation of environmental stewards, problem solvers and leaders.

Why we’re unique

🌦 100% outside in all seasons

Research shows that time in nature makes kids healthier, happier, and smarter. At Pine, children spend every season immersed in the natural world — rain, snow, or shine — learning through play, exploration, and hands-on discovery.

🌲 Deep connection to nature
At Pine, we believe nature offers more than beauty and adventure — it holds real answers to the challenges we face today. Through patterns of cooperation, adaptability, and balance, the natural world models how communities can thrive. Our mentors help kids slow down, tune in, and build meaningful relationships with the land. From tracking wildlife to witnessing seasonal change, these small, consistent experiences spark awe and curiosity — and over time, shift how children see the world. Nature becomes a trusted teacher, offering not just skills but a wiser perspective rooted in connection, care, and belonging. Learn more about our approach.

💚 Lasting relationships and lifelong growth

At Pine, kids don’t just drop in for a program, they join a community. Many return season after season, year after year. These long-term bonds with mentors, peers, and place form the foundation for deep, lasting growth. 

🔥 Healthy risk and real-world learning

We know kids grow when they’re trusted to navigate challenge. Pine programs offer safe spaces for healthy risk-taking — from lighting a fire to stretching personal limits — helping children build confidence, self-reliance, and real-world problem-solving skills. With support from mentors, kids actively assess and manage risk, learning to make thoughtful, safe decisions that carry into all areas of life. 

🌟 Small groups with skilled mentors

With low participant-to-mentor ratios (usually 1:6) and expertly trained staff, kids receive the personalized attention and guidance they need to thrive. Our instructors bring deep knowledge of nature, strong educational skills, and a passion for mentoring — creating safe, supportive environments where each child can grow in their own way, at their own pace.

🌍 Committed to access and inclusion

We’re dedicated to helping as many children as possible experience the benefits of nature, no matter their financial circumstances or individual needs. Learn more about our Access & Affordability supports.