International Research Teaching Forest is interested in developing new types of programming to serve the needs of our customers. The corporate goal is accessibility- bringing the joys of the Forest to those who otherwise may not have access. There are many forms of technology available to assist in the demonstrations of Forest Benefits.
To see more of our current accessibility information, discover important details regarding accessibility, and learn how planning and implementation of these details can make a significant difference to the community Click here.
Should you be part of an organization, team, group, or association and are interested in contributing your ideas, expertise, and knowledge related to technology and an Accessible Forest Contact us!
Image: Gran Abuelo ( Great Grandfather) Ancient Tree, Chile
Learning is tactile. Learning is listening, feeling, smelling, and seeing. Learning creates additional curiosity, awe, and sometimes sheer amazement.
Learning for those who cannot see, or smell, or have the same mobility as others takes place in different ways.
Everyone who would like to learn about the Forest should be able to do so. This is our goal. To bring the Forest to people and people to the Forest to share the benefits, and wonders the Forest offers us. Together, we can discover what needs to be done to make this happen.
Forest Recreation is popular worldwide. The environment of the forest is conducive to peace and well-being. Exercising in the woodlands is increasingly popular with such activities as yoga, meditation, and fitness training. In addition to physical exercise, there is mental and physical relaxation. These activities can be individual or group as shown in the following examples.
https://youtu.be/naOrhaXOQs0?si=X6EK5XaGKtBZaGLm
https://youtu.be/MyZb2BS04y0?si=GozQVRht07a10OMf
https://youtu.be/EsjGYl-SJy4?si=yyy4jhIfyIkJPHIe
Information, as provided in the links, shows that when traveling locally to globally, it is possible to plan visits in many regions that have provided forests for activities – such as forest bathing, recreational forest walking, hiking, and other well-being activities. In this age of high-use of computers (sometimes for many hours a day) and other technologies demanding high-level concentration, coupled with growing stresses related to health concerns and troublesome matters of the world, nature-based recreation vacation planning may be ideal for people to gain relaxation and support their well-being.
International Research Forests Incorporated is working toward providing a link in this national and global chain of Natural Adventure and Natural Relaxation venues for visitors to come to Glendale and experience the joys of nature and increase well-being.
photo by Linda Harwot
Should you be a fitness trainer or have expertise in wellness – Contact us to discuss your programming ideas.
The vision of International Research Teaching Forest is to develop outdoor educational programming in a Forest environment that promotes the growth and development of people of all ages, intentionally structuring programs to involve mentorship can achieve this goal. The advantages of mentorship are numerous encompassing the following vital roles:
Wisdom and Guidance: A mentor brings wisdom and experience to the mentee, providing guidance and advice based on their knowledge and expertise. A mentor can share insights into effective leadership, decision-making, and conflict resolution: essential aspects in the workplace.
Skill Development: Mentoring offers an opportunity for mentees to develop and enhance their skills. Mentees develop skills in areas such as administration, financial management, and strategic forest and community planning. By receiving direct guidance and feedback, mentees can grow in their abilities and become more effective in their roles.
Personal Growth: Mentoring goes beyond just skill development; it also fosters personal growth. A mentor can provide encouragement and support to mentees, helping them build confidence, develop their character, and navigate challenges. Through this personal growth, mentees become better equipped to serve and lead the community with sound management strengths.
Networking and Connections: Mentors often have extensive networks and connections in the community and beyond. By having a mentor, mentees can benefit from these networks, gaining access to resources, opportunities, and valuable relationships. This can be particularly beneficial in working in a community, where connections with other leaders, organizations, and experts can contribute to effective decision-making and problem-solving.
Continuity and Succession Planning: Mentorship plays a crucial role in ensuring continuity and succession planning for decisions involving sustainability. By mentoring potential future leaders, mentors help to pass on their knowledge, experience, and values. This ensures a smooth transition of leadership and helps maintain the stability and vision of the community and forest over time.
Accountability and Support: A mentor provides a source of accountability and support for mentees. Leaders often face complex and challenging decisions. Having a mentor can provide a safe space to discuss concerns, seek advice, and gain perspective. Mentors can also hold mentees accountable for their actions, helping them stay focused on their goals and values.
Spiritual Growth and Discipleship: Forests for many have traditional and spiritual connections. An experienced mentor with knowledge of the forest can guide mentees in their spiritual growth and discipleship, and strengthen appreciation, respect, and connectivity with the environment of which we are an integral part. When we learn to respect the environment – we learn to also respect ourselves.
It is a key goal of International Research Teaching Forests to open opportunities for forest-related mentorship opportunities to the community. Learning to “do” is essential to becoming productive people who contribute to the community and the workplace. A living Forest classroom is a place for mentorship and learning.
The numerous advantages of mentorship, including wisdom, skill development, personal growth, networking, continuity, accountability, and spiritual guidance foster a culture of learning, collaboration, and stewardship, ultimately strengthening the effectiveness and impact of community leaders in fulfilling their responsibilities.
Should you be an experienced person who has an interest in helping others gain knowledge related to the forest Contact us. If you have always wanted to learn something about the forest, Contact us. We are extremely interested in meeting with you to discuss the development of forest-based mentorship programs.
Topics of mentorship may include, assisting in forest research, forestry technician and forest maintenance, new product development, forest product marketing and sales, winter survival in the woods, orienteering, learning about search and rescue missions in the forest, ecological forest guides, teaching students, leading tours with a traditional and nontraditional blend of information and much more…
Agritourism
Agritourism is a type of niche tourism that according to Forbes had an estimated 2017 value of 949 million in sales in the US. Growing in popularity around the world, the Allied Market Research Report shows the Global Agritourism industry generated nearly 33.8 billion US dollars in 2022 with a projected growth reach of 111.1 billion by 2023.
Agritourism involves activities surrounding forms of agriculture. The activities can be very diverse ranging from educational tours of a farm (or Forest producing Food) to exploration of the natural environment to relaxing retreats. An immersive way to travel may be a hands-on at a farm (or Forest Farm) assisting with production or harvesting techniques. It can involve demonstrations and mentorship programming. The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) offers online courses for skills development in the area of Agritourism.
Some links surrounding the topic of Agritourism:
https://ecehub.tiac-aitc.ca/en/webinar/growing-agritourism/
https://tourismteacher.com/agritourism/
https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/agritourism-market-A09097
International Research Teaching Forests Incorporated has the opportunity to use the Glendale Forest for both Forest Food Production and Agritourism educational tours and activities. Any companies, groups, or individuals with thoughts or contributions toward this planning. Contact us!
International Research Teaching Forests Incorporated, believes in the power of nature to promote well-being and personal growth. Our mission is to provide a link for visitors to come to Glendale and experience the joys of nature, while also offering mentorship programs in a forest environment. By connecting with experienced mentors, individuals can gain wisdom, enhance their skills, and navigate challenges. Mentorship also provides networking opportunities and helps ensure continuity and succession planning for sustainability. We are dedicated to fostering a culture of learning, collaboration, and stewardship in our community. Join us in exploring the wonders of the forest and becoming part of our forest-based mentorship programs.