Our Research
PA Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR)
Developed in collaboration with the PA Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics Climate & Environmental Health Committee, the Pennsylvania COBOR establishes a framework of shared expectations and guiding principles that every child in Pennsylvania should have safe, regular, and meaningful access to outdoor and nature-based experiences . In 2025, Governor Josh Shapiro and Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis officially endorsed the PA COBOR on October 9, in observance of Children’s Environmental Health Day.
Communication Needs Assessment
With the support of National Parks Service Rivers, Trails, Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance program (NPS-RTCA) and Red Bridge Group, this needs assessment provides a comprehensive overview of the program’s objectives, target audience, and the unique context of Philadelphia, including demographics, health disparities, and availability to green spaces.
Environmental Scan Survey Report
As a Nature Everywhere Community, Prescribe Outside conducted an environmental scan of Philadelphia’s outdoor youth programs with the support of the US Forest Service and the Center for Sustainable Communities of Temple University. The results of the scan were further investigated through a city-wide survey, the results of which are included in the report.
Listening Session Report
Facilitated by Abundant Philly, this report details the findings from listening sessions focusing on understanding parents’ and teens’ experiences with time spent outdoors and in nature in Philadelphia. Overall, the main themes revolve around how they discover and access outdoor programs, the benefits they see, the challenges they face, and their perspectives on the Prescribe Outside model.