"Prescribe Outside," an initiative connecting children with nature to enhance health outcomes, has announced Grace Parker as its new project manager. The initiative is a collaboration among Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) Primary Care Network, Awbury Arboretum, Let's Go Outdoors, the City of Philadelphia and the U.S. Forest Service.

Parker comes from a non-profit background, having previously worked with Mt. Cuba Center. Her personal connection with CHOP through her family's health journey offers a unique perspective for the role. Parker plans to leverage her creativity, analytical abilities and programmatic thinking to lead Prescribe Outside and its partner organizations.

"It feels like such a timely subject—the sky's the limit," Parker said. She believes her experience in public horticulture, education and her passion for healthcare will enable her to successfully address the growing needs of Philadelphia's youth through this initiative.

Sara Stevenson, Awbury Arboretum’s executive director, expressed confidence in Parker's leadership.

"Prescribe Outside strives to bring together the best of Philadelphia’s pediatric medicine with our abundant green spaces... Grace’s leadership will help Prescribe Outside thrive," she said.

Parker's appointment is expected to boost Prescribe Outside's efforts to improve the health and wellness of Philadelphia's children by providing accessible, enriching experiences in nature.