Cultivating generations of innovators and problem solvers for local and global impact
Portland, Oregon
Experience Life Science Outdoors
At ELSO, we center and elevate the stories and experiences of local communities through innovative STEAMED (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) and nature-based education.
Our programs provide hands-on learning, mentorship, and career pathways. We aim to cultivate generations of innovators and problem solvers, fostering environmental literacy and scientific thinking from early childhood through young adulthood. ELSO is committed to creating a diverse future in STEAMED by providing opportunities and representation that inspire and empower.
ELSO is a nationally recognized organization that creates innovative Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math, Environment, and Design (STEAMED) education programs, paid internships, and career development that provide youth from K to young adulthood with unique opportunities to Experience Life Science Outdoors.
Experience Life Science Outdoors
Our vision leads with cultivating generations Innovators and Problem Solvers, thus innovation in our programming is a critical
measure of success and intentionally built into the Department name
Program Innovation
Wayfinders Program is a STEAMED and nature-based camp for K-8 students that combines science, nature, and cultural education, developing confidence, environmental literacy, and a love for learning.
Through hands-on learning and mentorship, participants build foundational skills in scientific thinking, research, and environmental literacy, laying the groundwork for future academic and career opportunities in STEAMED fields.
Through hands-on learning and mentorship, participants build foundational skills in scientific thinking. Camps are designed to foster a lifelong love of learning and curiosity about the world.
Studio Justice is a trio of paid after-school programming and outreach events that broadens access to STEAMED pathways while exposing youth to careers in the built environment.
Eight (8) Week-long after-school cohorts for ages 14-20 teach technical skills in architecture and drafting; through mentorship and guest professionals from the AECD field, youth participants have exposure to using design as a tool for justice. Participants receive a stipend and design kits and complete a design proposal and vision board showcasing their work.
The cohort culminates in Vital Voices, a public presentation of student design projects presented to our panelists, families, guest educators, and visiting professionals.
Tappin’ Roots (TR) is a paid environmental internship program for high school students in the Greater Portland area.
Tappin’ Roots internships provide paid learning experiences in conservation and technical skills.
TR seeks to train and empower the next generation of local and environmental leaders using Storytelling, Mentorship, Career exploration, Place-based learning, and Healing practices.
After orientation, Interns will participate in monthly career symposiums.
