Help Growing Up Green Nature School Rebuild After Storm

On July 24, our Growing Up Green Nature School tipi was destroyed by the derecho wind storm that hit Missoula. While GUG students spend the majority of their time outdoors learning in nature, the indoor space offered by the tipi was an important piece of our school program. We are now in need of a new shelter to provide warmth during the winter months, shade from the sun, cover to eat during the rain, and a dry place for our art materials, wooden toys, books, etc.

After contemplating many types of non-permanent structures (because the property our school is on is leased to us), we've decided to retrofit a 2002 school bus that is in wonderful shape and meets all of our criteria for a functional inside space. Since we have had to rebuild the tipi already due to a microburst in the fall of '21, we are excited to have something that can withstand the treacherous winds and provide a solid and safe space without the financial risk of needing to be replaced again.

We are raising money to help with the cost of the bus along with a heater and air conditioner to help regulate the temperature. We will be removing the seats to create learning spaces and building on an awning for additional shade outdoors.

We are so grateful for the 5 years we were given with our beloved tipi. The children enjoyed learning about the historical and cultural significance of the lodge and we are honored to have been the stewards of such a wonderful structure. It is very sad to say goodbye to this chapter of Growing Up Green Nature School, but with the help of our wonderful community, we hope to have a flourishing indoor space again soon.

Thank you very much to everyone who reached out after the storm to offer assistance. In addition to losing the tipi, 20+ mature trees were blown down throughout our school campus. We are planning to host 2 upcoming work days on Sunday September 8 from 3-7pm and Wednesday September 11 from 4-8pm. We will be cleaning up branches, rebuilding a fence, and moving stumps. We're also hoping to find a few volunteers to hang out with children whose parents are helping. Please let us know if you are able to be part of either work day. We do not expect folks to stay for the entire timeframe, but any time within those hours you're willing to come by would be much appreciated.

We have so much gratitude for our friends, family, and the Missoula community. Thank you for supporting us and Growing Up Green Nature School.

Love, Jacole & Travis