Rebuild Inside the Outdoors

Rancho Soñado, which has long served as the picturesque homebase for the Orange County Department of Education’s Inside the Outdoors environmental education program, was overtaken by the devastating Bond Fire that began December 2, 2020 in Silverado Canyon.

Fortunately, no OCDE staff members were injured in the fast-moving fire. However, at least two structures were lost, including the home of the caretaker and her family, and most of the animals connected to our programs did not survive. 

Nestled against the Santa Ana Mountains, Rancho Soñado has hosted generations of field trips, giving over 100,000 students of all backgrounds a chance to explore unspoiled local ecosystems. This land and its history are an important part of Orange County.

We are raising money to benefit Inside the Outdoors Foundation, and all donations will help support their educational programs. A portion of the proceeds will support the family of Rancho Soñado's caretaker who lost their home and many of their belongings. 

More information about Inside the Outdoors Foundation: The Mission of the Inside the Outdoors Foundation is to provide financial, educational and advisory support to the Inside the Outdoors Science Study Programs. Inside the Outdoors programs empower students, teachers, parents and the community through hands-on educational experiences in the natural world to expand their knowledge, understanding and stewardship of the environment.

This campaign is being hosted by the Orange County Department of Education's leadership team.