STAR Financial Bank has awarded $10,000 to the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation (INRF) in support of the Discover the Outdoors field trip grant program.

Offered in partnership between Indiana State Parks and the INRF, Discover the Outdoors encourages educators from all K-12 schools to take students on field trips to an Indiana state park.

“We greatly appreciate STAR Financial Bank’s generosity to support outdoor education for Hoosier children,” said Jody Kress, INRF executive director. “It demonstrates their commitment to the communities they serve and gets kids into state parks where they get to explore our valuable natural resources.”

Since the program’s inception in 2013, a total of 287 grants have been awarded, providing the opportunity for more than 25,200 students to visit state parks at less cost to the schools and students.

Educators work directly with park staff to curate trips that will engage students in learning about Indiana's fish, forests, wildlife, natural habitats, conservation, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

“At STAR Bank, we believe that investing in young people and their experiences is one of the most meaningful ways we can support the future of our communities,” said Trevor Smith, commercial banker at STAR Bank. “The Discover the Outdoors program connects students to Indiana’s incredible natural resources and inspires curiosity, learning, and stewardship. We’re proud to support opportunities that expand access to outdoor education and strengthen the connection between students and the world around them.”

The application window for 2025-26 field trips is currently open. Educators may apply March 15 – April 30 prior to the school year for which the grant is requested. The maximum grant award is $500 per application. The grant may cover the school’s transportation costs, program fees, and other applicable material costs. Applicants will be notified of their status by May 15.

The application is available at on.IN.gov/state-park-group-programs. Read more about the program and the impact of donations like this at indiananrf.org/project/discover-the-outdoors-2/.

The Discover the Outdoors fund was established in memory of Tom Huck, a longtime DNR employee who was an ardent supporter of outdoor experiences for children. If you would like to support outdoor education in Indiana, donations can be made to the INRF at indiananrf.org/donate.

For further information, email discoveroutdoorsgrants@dnr.IN.gov.

To view all DNR news releases, please see dnr.IN.gov.