Kish Kids Outside

03/23/2026

We are looking for passionate people to join us!

We currently have opportunities to:
🌱 Serve as an Independent Contractor to help bring our Nature Passport to life
🌿 Join our Board of Directors and help guide our mission

If you love connecting kids and families to nature and want to make a local impact, we’d love to hear from you!

Learn more at kishkidsoutside.org/get-involved

Please help us spread the word by sharing with your network!💚

03/22/2026

On the day before Mother's Day, Saturday, May 9, come out to the guided wildflower walks at the Natural Resource Education Center (NREC) in Russell Woods Forest Preserve, 11750 State Rt 72, Genoa, IL 60135. The upland paved path allows people of all abilities to enjoy the flowers.

The walks start on the hour at 10 AM. The last walk will start at 1 PM. Two local botany enthusiasts, Karen Matz and Brian Hale, will lead and talk about forest plants and what is blooming. According to Illinois Extension Educator Peggy Anesi, “They love to share their enthusiasm regarding wildflowers. If people have company in for the weekend, this would be a great destination and activity for everyone to share.”

According to Anesi, it’s important for people to understand that removing plants from preservation areas is illegal, so capturing them with a camera is the best way to take something home.
All are welcome on the guided hikes.

There is no fee for the walks, and the NREC will be open for visitors. Extension Master Naturalists will be in the Natural Resource Education Center to welcome visitors while they wait for the next walk. Come in and see our wildlife exhibits!

If you have questions or need a reasonable accommodation to participate in programming, call the NREC at 815-784-2000.

03/19/2026

The 2026 Pop Up Nature Season Starts Today! 🌿

The DeKalb County Forest Preserve District is kicking off its annual series—a great way to explore local flora and fauna and connect with nature!

📍 Russell Woods Forest Preserve
🗓 Thursday, March 19
🕙 10 AM – 1:30 PM

All are welcome to stop by anytime to learn about Edible Landscapes—discover how native trees and shrubs can support both people and wildlife… and even take home a native tree seedling! 🌱

➡ Visit the calendar on our website for more upcoming events!

02/27/2026

🌿 Oaken Acres Stewardship this Saturday
Join our friends for a volunteer opportunity Feb. 28, 9-11:30am. Expect fresh air, meaningful habitat work, and a fun community vibe. Ages 12+ welcome with a parent.
Find the details at kishkidsoutside.org/calendar.

02/27/2026

🌳 Did you know DeKalb County Forest Preserve District offers several FREE programs and activities throughout the year?

Come explore and learn at one of our beautiful Forest Preserves while enjoying nature as your backdrop. It’s a great way to connect with the outdoors and your community!

Stay up to date and check for weather-related cancellations on our website: https://dekalbcounty.org/departments/forest-preserve/

02/20/2026

01/16/2026

01/07/2026

Mark your calendar for this fun event happening 1/17! Contact University of Illinois Extension - Boone, DeKalb and Ogle Counties for more details!

01/01/2026

As the New Year begins, may it be full of fresh air, curious minds, playful adventures, and shared care for the land and for one another. Here’s to a bright, hopeful year ahead. 💚

12/24/2025

As the year comes to a close, we’re wishing you warmth, wonder, and moments of connection—outside and together. ✨

May the holidays bring time to slow down, breathe deeply, and notice the beauty all around you.

12/21/2025

Today we welcome the Winter Solstice—a pause, a breath, and a turning point. Even in the darkest season, nature reminds us that rest is powerful and light always returns.

11/20/2025

🧥 FREE Winter Wear ❄️🧣

Need warm clothing for the season? The DeKalb Area Women's Center is hosting a free distribution event with coats, jackets, boots, scarves, hats, and gloves for women, men, and children.

DeKalb Area Women’s Center
📍1021 State Street, DeKalb, IL 60115
📅 Saturday, November 22, 2025
🕙 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

All are welcome—spread the word! 💙
Questions? Contact: 815-758-1351 or DeKalbAWC@gmail.com