Over 25 years ago, ODC Network began as a single nature center. Since then, the organization has flourished into a leader in connecting conservation, education, and outdoor access—all inspired by the belief in the power of nature to improve lives.
Over the past several years, ODC’s Early Childhood team has quietly become one of the most influential voices in Michigan on what nature-based early childhood education looks like and how it gets implemented.
We’re launching the Reconnection Challenge—a series designed to get you and the people you love outside, moving, and genuinely together.
There’s a problem quietly limiting conservation work: you can have the land, the expertise, and the will to restore a habitat—and you still might not be able to get the plants you need.
In a world shaped by screens, artificial intelligence, and constant connectivity, one of the most powerful tools for healthy development remains surprisingly simple: time outside.
Being easy to grow is a surface-level benefit of native plants. At a deeper level, planting natives can have a powerful impact on the health of natural ecosystems.
< OUR TEAM Kristina Boersma Support Services Director Kristina Boersma serves as Support Services Director at Dragonflies Discovery Preschool, where she helps guide students, families, and staff as they learn
< OUR TEAM Heather Bouwman Support Services Director Heather Bouwman serves as Support Services Director at Little Hawks Discovery Preschool, where she brings decades of professional experience as a master’s-level
< OUR TEAM Kim Burmeister Director of Reimagining Education Kim Burmeister serves as Director of Reimagining Education at ODC Network, where she leads strategic efforts to scale nature-based, place-based learning
