Congratulations to CJ Goulding, the 2025 recipient of the Richard Louv Prize for Innovation in Nature Connection

CJ Goulding is an innovative leader in the movement to address the systemic and cultural barriers that prevent people of color, particularly Black men, from accessing nature. “CJ’s work is centered on nature being a place of belonging, healing and liberation,” Richard Louv explained, in his presentation of the award. “He approaches leadership with an open heart and mind,” Louv continued. “I often call our cause a happy cause — and CJ is a perfect representation of that.”
 

The Children & Nature Network Founders’ Council unanimously selected Goulding from more than 75 nominations submitted by children and nature advocates from around the world. Previously, as the Children & Nature Network’s Manager of Community Leadership Development, Goulding mentored more than 450 youth leaders across 44 states in the U.S. He then went on to found Boyz N The Wood, an organization that creates immersive outdoor experiences for Black men — forging connections to nature, to physical and mental well-being, and to brotherhood. 
 

Now in its fourth year, the Richard Louv Prize for Innovation in Nature Connection recognizes leaders in the movement, in honor of the visionary contributions of Children & Nature Network co-founder Richard Louv. Congratulations, CJ!