The HFAC Field Institute
Welcome to HFAdventureCommunity Field Institute, where curious kids who love nature embark on a journey of discovery, learning, and independence. Through engaging science activities and outdoor skills, we empower students to connect with their local environment and cultures, fostering a deep care for the natural world.
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We have weekly classes, workshops, night hikes, private field trips for groups and more.
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Fall 2024 Registration is now open - click on the "Register Here" button under each class or scroll to the bottom!
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WE ACCEPT CHARTER SCHOOL FUNDS!
Adventure Leaders
2024-2025
The Adventure Leaders program offers youth the opportunity to develop leadership skills, engage in outdoor activities, and work as a team. The program emphasizes confidence, empowerment, social-emotional development, physical agility, and community service. High Schoolers are Adventure 'Guides' and are invited to participate in a mentorship program. Student Council Credit available through many charter schools. Monthly meetings, and service project days that are optional.
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Various Meeting Locations in the San Gabriel Valley
10am-2pm, Open to grades 5th-12th.
Dates: Third Friday of Each month September-May
*Limited Spots Remaining
Monday
Field School
Join our immersive field class to learn about wildlife, ecology, wilderness survival, primitive skills, social-emotional learning and more. Engage in ecology walks, enjoy free discovery time, and participate in hands-on lessons and games, all designed to deepen your connection with the natural world. There is a class presentation for parents on the last day!
Drop-off for grades 2nd-8th, 10am-2pm
Dates: Sept 16, 23, 30, Oct 14, 21, 28 Nov 4, 11, 18 Dec 2, 9, 16
*Limited Spots Remaining
Monday
After Dark Adventures
During the cooler, rainier months in Southern California, we see a drastic change in Nocturnal activity. Join us on an epic nocturnal adventure to find Trapdoor Spiders, Salamanders, Mushrooms, Snails, Slugs, and so many more come out only during our rainy season! *Within reason, not always DURING rain.
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Drop-In Classes Only
Please check our events page for registration!
Tuesday
Family Field School
Families get outside to investigate and learn about the natural world through discovery hikes, crafts, stories, and more, guided by professional California Naturalists and Educators. Parents and siblings stay for this class to learn together! Choose Pasadena or Glendora
Recommended for Grades 1st and up. Ages 4 and under are no cost with a sibling.
10am-12pm
Glendora
Semester, Monthly, or Drop-In ($480 per semester)
Dates:Sept 17, 24 Oct 1, 15, 22 Nov 5, 12, 19 Dec 3, 10, 17
Tuesday
Create Your Own Picture Book
This is a 6- session outdoor Fall class in which students will use their imagination and develop artistic skills. Each student will write, plan, illustrate and bind their own picture book story with renowned artist Carly Lake! (carlylake.com). Ages 7+
9:30-11:30am
Glendora
Dates: September 3, 10, 17, 24, October 1, 15
Wednesday
Junior Naturalist Certification Course
California is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, possessing the lowest AND highest peaks in the United States, thousands of endemic plants and animals, some of the most complex and amazing waterways and more! Inspired by the adult California naturalist certification program, participants will enjoy educational hikes, exciting activities, and engaging hands-on learning sessions. We will cover what it means to be a Naturalist, Geology and Climate, Water, Plants and Plant Communities, Animals, Community Science. Students that complete the program will receive a certificate of completion and a Junior Naturalist Pin. Awards on December 18th.
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10am-2pm
Glendora
Sept 18, 25 Oct 2, 16, 23 Nov 6, 13, 20 Dec 4, 11, 18
Thursday
Family Field School
Families get outside to investigate and learn about the natural world through discovery hikes, crafts, stories, and more, guided by professional California Naturalists and Educators. Parents and siblings stay for this class to learn together! Recommended for Grades 1st and up. Ages 4 and under are no cost with a sibling.
Choose the 10am-12pm or 12:30pm-2:30pm class
Location: Mt. Baldy
Semester, Monthly, or Drop-In ($480 per semester)
Dates: Sept 19, 26 Oct 3, 17, 24 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5, 12, 19
Spring 2024
Marine Environmental Education
Coming Soon!
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Online Class in Spring 2024 for ages 10-17
Plus - End of session field trips to Catalina for snorkeling and kayaking, completing community science data surveys underwater!
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