About Us 

Nature is essential to health. And a growing number of healthcare and public health professionals are using nature to heal their patients and communities. The Center for Nature and Health (CNH) at UCSF is a pioneer in this field. Founded in 2016 at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, the Center reflects the idea that nature can and should play a key role in healing. We accomplish our mission through original research relating to nature and health, interdisciplinary partnerships to promote the study of nature and health, clinical care in nature, and advocacy.

Illustration of hands holding a daisy chain.

Mission

The Center for Nature and Health is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the world's most vulnerable children through connection with nature.

Vision

The Center for Nature and Health envisions a world where children flourish, nurtured by thriving ecosystems, and where this cultural wisdom and connection are perpetuated from generation to generation.

Illustration of California Blackberries

What we do

Provide Clinical Care for Vulnerable Populations

In partnership with the East Bay Regional Park District, the Primary Care Clinic at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland became one of the first in the nation to refer patients to the outdoors for health. The Center for Nature and Health has served hundreds of patients and their families. We continue to build partnerships to give patients access to nature and advocate for the rights of patients in outdoor spaces. Interested in participating? We are currently enrolling for our BLOOM program.

Advisors and Partners

 

 

other much appreciated partners and funders