Founded in 1976 as Westcave Preserve, the mission of Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center is to inspire people to develop a lifelong practice of enjoying and protecting nature. They accomplish this through educational programs, collaborative alliances, and conservation of their 76-acre preserve. 

Girls+Outside (G+O) is an initiative of Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center connecting 400 K-12th grade girls and gender expansive students in 10 Austin ISD schools to nature through mentoring partnerships, field trips, and unique experiences that positively influence their health and well-being. 77 percent of participants are from economically-disadvantaged communities and 91 percent are students of color. G+O outings draw on immersion in nature to inspire curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and creative thinking. G+O also provides training to teachers to enhance their students’ learning.

The grant is unrestricted and awarded in support of the mission and programs of Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center.