YES Staff work intensively with teams to assess community assets and needs, create action plans, identify and involve community partners, and link teams with further funding resources to match the students’ passion with a real need and opportunity in their community.
Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center
Kalley Pratt, YES Director
320-894-8538 (cell)
kalley@yesmn.org
I grew up in a rural area just ten minutes west of Prairie Woods ELC. My passion for the outdoors really blossomed during my college years when I was studying Fine Arts and Graphic Design in the Twin Cities. I would often escape to the North Shore for weekends just to be still in the presence of trees, rocks, waters, and silence. As I manage my busy schedule and work towards a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy, I continue to rely on the beauty of nature to always put my soul at ease. My husband and I enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding; we try to live a sustainable and environmental friendly life. I am so excited to be part of the YES! program and to have the opportunity to work with students across Minnesota as they study environmental and ecological solutions. I am eager to see YES! continue to grow in helping Minnesota achieve their climate action framework of becoming carbon-neutral, resilient and equitable.
Jake Schwinghammer, YES Team Manager
jake@yesmn.org
My passion for the outdoors began as a child at summer camp and continued to grow as I eventually began working at those same summer camps and other local outdoor focused programs. I enjoy hiking, canoeing, fly fishing and sharing my passion for the outdoors and the environment with people of all ages. I thrive by helping people find creative ways to incorporate practical sustainability practices into their daily lives, while also guiding them to discover environmental issues that they will feel personally passionate about. I aim to be a resource for all YES participants and am eager to help YES students and coaches achieve their goals.
Mari Klebe, YES! Office Manager
320-354-5894 (office)
[email protected]
I joined the full time Prairie Woods team in November 2013, after volunteering and being a part-time staff member the prior three years. I wear many hats at Prairie Woods as office manager, “as needed” challenge course and environmental education instructor, as well as time travel program leader. One of my many office manager duties is to help support the YES! teams on the business end. I gained my “many hat” experience through working for outdoor education centers in Hudson, WI and Battle Creek, MI. Growing up in Door County, WI is what built my love of the outdoors and a good Midwest winter.
Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center (YES Host)
Address
12718 10th St NE
Spicer, MN 56288
