In this episode of the Market It with ATMA Podcast, Bryan Acosta sits down with Becky Gerro, Director of Development at the River Legacy Foundation, to explore how gratitude, environmental education, and nonprofit leadership can create lasting impact in a community.
Becky shares how the River Legacy Nature Center in Arlington, Texas connects thousands of students and families with the outdoors through hands-on environmental education along the Trinity River ecosystem. Through field investigations, forest exploration, and interactive STEM learning with animal ambassadors, students move from uncertainty about nature to curiosity, confidence, and stewardship.
As Director of Development, Becky also discusses how the River Legacy Foundation builds strong partnerships, raises critical funding, and engages the community to support conservation and education initiatives that protect one of North Texas’s most valuable natural spaces.
This conversation explores how nature-based learning supports mental health, improves focus, and builds resilience, while also helping young people understand ecosystems, conservation, and the importance of protecting the environment.
If you care about nonprofit leadership, environmental education, conservation, or community impact, this episode offers powerful insights into how access to nature helps build healthier people, stronger communities, and future environmental leaders.
Key Topics in This Episode
• How gratitude connects service, leadership, and nonprofit growth
• Becky Gerro’s role as Director of Development at River Legacy Foundation
• How hands-on environmental education inspires the next generation
• What a real fourth-grade field investigation in nature looks like
• Why access to nature improves mental health, focus, and stress reduction
• How forest bathing supports clearer thinking and leadership
• Using animal ambassadors to create engaging STEM education
• Why authentic storytelling and Instagram Reels help nonprofits grow
• Building community partnerships and raising $2.5 million for conservation and education programs
About River Legacy Foundation
https://www.riverlegacy.org
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/riverlegacyparks/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/riverlegacyfoundation/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rlnaturecenter
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