Welcome to Sit-a-thon!
What is Sit-a-thon?
Sit-a-thon is Pine’s annual community challenge and fundraising campaign in support of the Bursary Fund. It’s like a walk-a-thon, but for sitting!
The challenge is simple: commit to sitting in nature and ask friends, family and community members to donate to your sit.
Every dollar raised goes directly to Pine’s Bursary Fund, helping children from low-income families access life-changing nature connection programs.
Why sit in nature?
We’ve found that sitting quietly outdoors, engaging our senses, and observing our surroundings is one of the most powerful ways to learn from nature. This practice, known as a “sit spot,” is one of several core routines of nature connection that we incorporate into our programs. With time and practice, sit spots expand our awareness, reduce stress, build naturalist skills, and foster a deep sense of connection and belonging. It sounds simple – just sit outside and observe. But in a world full of distractions, truly slowing down and immersing ourselves in nature is harder than you’d think. It’s a real sit spot challenge!
How do I sign up to become a Sitter?
Thanks for asking! Here’s how it works:
1. Pick a sit spot.
Decide on these key things:
- Where will I sit? It can be anywhere you want – deep in the woods, at a local park, or in your backyard!
- How long will I sit for? People have sat anywhere from 1- 24 hours. It’s totally up to you.
- When will I sit? You’re welcome to sit anytime this Spring from April – June!
- Who will be sitting? While a sit spot is typically a solitary and quiet experience, we still can get a lot out of sitting in nature and observing as a group. Families and groups are welcome to sit and support together!
2. Create your fundraising page.
Create your Sit-a-thon fundraising page on CanadaHelps.
Creating a Sit-a-thon fundraising page only takes a few minutes! There are even pre-filled text and images available if helpful.
To set up a fundraiser FOLLOW THIS LINK, sign in or create an account, and follow the prompts.
Click here for more details instructions, plus tips and templates!
Or if you’d prefer to get instructions straight to your inbox and individualized support, click here!
3. Share, share, share!
Now it’s time to share your goal with friends, family, coworkers, and others, and ask them to support your Sit!
It can be a great way to connect, share fun nature stories, and explain why nature connection is important to you.
You can share via social media, email, phone, in person, whatever feels right to you.
4. Sit and connect with nature
Your sit spot is a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and take in the world around you.
Click here for some suggestions on how to prepare for a wonderful experience.
Enjoy your time outside! 🌿 ✨
5. Say thanks
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
After the Sit-a-thon is over, remember to say thank you to those who donated to your sit. Gratitude is something we practice at Pine everyday. By giving thanks we spread positivity and deepen connections.
Share a story from your sit spot! Where did you decide to sit? Anything you noticed during your time in nature? What did you take away from the experience? Stories are a great way to build connection and inspire others to get outside.