Loving where we live is the mission at Upstream, meaning we want everyone to experience loving where we live. Upstream partner M Health Fairview is ensuring people under their care have access to our natural places with a “Nature-Based Therapy” program at M Health Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital. The program was founded in 2017 and is supported by many generous donors. The program offers children’s hospital patients to experience nature-based therapy, which “can reduce anxiety and stress, improve mood, and increase sensory stimulation” (M Health Fairview).

The program includes Nature’s Notes, a twice-a-month handout that inspires reflection with educational content. Children’s hospital patients are also given hands-on activity kits to encourage creativity and observation of the outdoors. The program is growing and allows for one-on-one care in a patient’s room, giving them autonomy to make the experience their own.

You can donate to the Nature-Based Therapy Program through the University of Minnesota Foundation.