Company Profile
Ravenwood Outdoor Learning Center
Company Overview
Ravenwood Outdoor Learning Center's mission is to connect people with nature, community, and self. Specializing in mentoring self-development through nature, we offer programs for schools, families, kids, and adults throughout the Flathead Valley of northwestern Montana.
Company History
Ravenwood founders Laura and Brett Holmquist have deep roots in outdoor education. Both grew up with expansive back yards in the big, wide country of Montana. As young professionals in Yellowstone doing biological research and conducting education programs for youth, the couple witnessed a fundamental lack of ecological understanding among many of the young people they encountered. For many kids, these programs had been their first serious outdoor adventures, even among those who grew up in Montana! Laura and Brett also witnessed a real thirst for learning and a noticeable shift in awareness and appreciation among their students when they were out on the landscape. The Holmquists saw a critical gap between understanding and interest in the natural world and decided to meld their various talents in the science and education fields to do something about it--the inspiration to create Ravenwood was born.
With no budget and only the volunteer capital of its founders, first generation board members, and local volunteers, ideas began to develop and program concepts emerged. Soon enough, the networking began to bear fruit and a landowner with facilities near Bigfork offered to donate the use of his property. Fundraising began and teachers across the state were contacted with information about Camp Corvid, a field study program for elementary students. By October 2003, programming began and positive feedback flowed in from students, teachers, parents, and community members. Ravenwood was on its way!
With each following year, more programs were developed and more kids, teachers, and parents began to understand how much fun outdoor learning could be. Ravenwood students were connecting with nature, their community, and gaining a better understanding of their own gifts and talents as a result.
Today, Ravenwood offers a wide variety of programs for kids of all ages and teaches educators and parents the mentoring skills upon which our curriculum is based. Ravenwood is now established as a premier outdoor learning center in the region and looks to find a permanent home in the near future.
Notable Products / Brands
Self Development through Nature
Notable Accomplishments / Recognition
Named Montana's Business of the Year for 2009 by the Montana Environmental Education Association