In Iowa, and beyond, informal learning environments come in a variety of sizes and forms. The following agencies and projects illustrate the breadth of informal environments where experiential learning can take place. These may provide opportunities for mutually beneficial collaborations. Please check out their websites to see the many places where informal learning can take place and what can happen there! For more information on their connection with Unbound, please contact the Unbound Chair.
Backyard Abundance
Backyard Abundance helps people take small steps to transform the outdoors into spaces that demonstrate the ability to live in harmony with nature. It is an Iowa-based nonprofit that provides ecological landscape design, educational workshops, and community programs to help individuals create environmentally-friendly outdoor spaces. Through personalized consultations, hands-on classes, and volunteer projects, the organization promotes sustainable gardening and permaculture practices, aiming to benefit both people and the planet. Their initiatives include edible forest installations and wellness programs like forest therapy, creating spaces for community engagement and ecological learning.
Iowa City Fab lab
The Iowa City Fab Lab has been providing space and tools for informal learning in Iowa City for 11 years. Partnerships with other non-profits are always welcome, and we have worked in partnership with the University of Iowa colleges of Education, Art, Public Health, Engineering, and Theater as well as individuals, small and large businesses, schools, and private groups. Our experience and knowledge of tools and tech provide a unique space for all kinds of both formal and informal education.
Iowa Flood Center
The Iowa Flood Center (IFC) provides reliable tools and information to help Iowans understand and reduce their flood risks. IFC's outreach and education efforts focus on providing flood awareness and watershed literacy resources to K-12 students and educators, partners, and the public. Key resources are available through the center’s public-facing Iowa Flood Information System that displays community-specific information on steam levels, flood alerts and forecasts, precipitation, flood maps, and watershed conditions for the entire state.
Iowa Raptor Project
The Iowa Raptor Project (IRP) is an initiative dedicated to conserving birds of prey and their natural habitats. It connects students and the community to raptor conservation through educational and research opportunities. Jointly sponsored by the University of Iowa College of Education and Kirkwood Community College, IRP focuses on raising awareness, fostering appreciation, and inspiring conservation actions. It also conducts field research on raptor nesting, migration, and winter habitats to support its conservation goals.
Raptor Center Internship
The Raptor Project is very excited to develop transformative educational and collaborative research opportunities that engage students, volunteers, and community members in hands-on learning experiences—building bridges between research and education through various field-based activities and volunteer programs.
Iowa Wildlife Camps
Iowa Wildlife Camps is a summer camp located at Macbride Nature Recreation Area and various Iowa state parks. We embrace the outdoors as our classroom, allowing the land to guide our learning. By integrating conservation education with outdoor activities, we offer hands-on experiences for kids in grades 1 through 12. Our week-long, project-based programs are designed to ignite curiosity about the natural world and foster environmental stewardship.
Iowa Youth Writing Project
The Iowa Youth Writing Project (IYWP) aims to inspire and empower K-12 students across Iowa by offering creative writing programs that build literacy, foster self-expression, and promote community engagement. As an initiative of the University of Iowa's Magid Center for Writing, IYWP provides free workshops, after-school programs, summer camps, and special events, enabling young people to explore language arts and storytelling in supportive and innovative ways. Its mission is to cultivate a love for writing, helping students develop their voices and engage with diverse perspectives.
School of the Wild
School of the Wild is a statewide initiative dedicated to equipping Iowa educators with the skills and resources to enrich outdoor learning for elementary and middle school students. Through a collaborative effort led by the University of Iowa’s College of Education, and in partnership with local schools, County Conservation Boards, and conservation organizations statewide, School of the Wild empowers teachers and informal educators to create extended learning experiences in the outdoors. The program emphasize immersive, place-based learning that proritizes cultural relevance, accessibillty, and an interdisciplinary approach. These core values guide us in inspiring the next generation with environmental awareness, appreciation, and a lifelong commitment to caring for Iowa’s natural resources.
The College of Education Makerspace
The College of Education Makerspace at the University of Iowa is focused on providing a welcoming and inclusive environment that supports formal and informal learning with an interdisciplinary approach. The facility provides hands-on experiences with various technologies for students and faculty. Equipment includes 3D printers, a laser cutter, CNC router, vinyl cutter, robots, Arduino microcontrollers, Makey Makeys, power tools, and high-performance computers for design and programming. It supports creative and practical skill development in technology and engineering, preparing pre-service teachers for classroom settings. The makerspace is accessible in Room 052 at Kirkwood Regional Center and offers classes, workshops, and open studio times.
The Iowa Children's Museum
The Iowa Children's Museum aims to inspire and educate children through interactive play, focusing on the developmental power of imagination and exploration. Located in Coralville, Iowa, the museum offers a variety of hands-on exhibits that encourage children to learn foundational skills in areas like STEM, literacy, and the arts. The exhibits are designed to stimulate creativity, problem-solving, and social skills, emphasizing play as a critical aspect of childhood development. Programs include STEM-focused activities, sensory play, and special events such as "STEM Family Free Night" and "Use Your VOICE Day" to foster civic engagement among children
United Action for Youth
United Action for Youth (UAY) is a nonprofit organization supporting youth and families in Johnson County, Iowa, since 1970. UAY offers diverse services, including art, music, and outdoor programs, as well as counseling, health education, and support for LGBTQ+ youth, young parents, and homeless youth. The organization’s mission is to nurture young people's potential and foster a safe, inclusive community.
UAY offers a variety of programs supporting creative expression, outdoor engagement, and music for youth ages 12-18. Art programs include the School of the Arts, art clubs, and workshops promoting skill-building and community connection. The SPARK Program emphasizes outdoor activities like kayaking and community events that nurture friendships, especially for BIPOC youth. Additionally, their music program provides access to a professional recording studio, jam room, and performance spaces, encouraging exploration across musical genres.
Wanderwood Gardens
Wanderwood Gardens is a nature-focused destination offering interactive outdoor play and educational experiences for all ages. Features include imaginative spaces like fairy and elf villages, water adventures, climbing structures, musical gardens, and performance areas. It aims to inspire creativity and connection with nature through playful exploration, nature-themed activities, and learning opportunities.