Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Rainier Prep
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 10211 12th Ave S
City: Seattle
State: WA
Postal Code: 98146
Main Phone: 2064945979
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.rainierprep.org
Employer ID Number: 80-0956961
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 8/21/2026
Requested Amount: 5000

Project Title: Outdoors Wilderness Leadership Skills
Project Description:

OWLS (Outdoors Wilderness Leadership Skills) is a schoolwide outdoor learning program designed to provide all approximately 360 Rainier Prep students in grades 5–8 with meaningful, recurring opportunities to learn and lead beyond the classroom. Through quarterly enrichment electives and field studies in King County Parks and Washington State Parks, students explore local natural environments while developing outdoor skills, confidence, teamwork, leadership, environmental awareness, and stewardship.

Rainier Prep is an equity-centered, relationship-driven public charter middle school serving predominantly students of color and many students from limited-income households in South King County. OWLS addresses unequal access to outdoor recreation and environmental education by making these experiences part of the school experience rather than an opportunity available only to students with the resources or access to participate independently.

The program complements Rainier Prep’s academic mission by strengthening the whole student. Outdoor experiences allow students to apply classroom learning in authentic settings, navigate unfamiliar environments, solve problems, collaborate with peers, and develop agency and resilience. Students also build stronger connections to the parks and natural spaces in their own region.

Funding will help Rainier Prep expand OWLS into a consistent, sustainable schoolwide program by supporting outdoor experiences, field studies, equipment, and related student opportunities. The school will track participation and gather evidence related to student engagement, confidence, teamwork, leadership, agency, belonging, and physical activity. Over time, Rainier Prep aims to make outdoor learning a lasting component of its enrichment model, ensuring every student has the opportunity to discover, explore, challenge themselves, and lead.

Total Project Budget: $75,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Foundation, $50,000

Project Duration: annual
Geographical Area Served: King County
Age Group To Be Served: 10-13

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr
Contact First Name: Scott
Contact Last Name: Hicke
Contact Title: Director of Development
Contact Phone: 2064945979
Contact Email: shicke@rainierprep.org