The Visitor Experience is a mission-driven business launched to connect children to nature. Following the 2023 TCINN Summit, Ky Harkey was inspired to help improve the Park Prescription process. He tested concepts and physical prescription pads with local physicians. Through all of their work, they share best practices for improving visitor experiences in nature centers and park settings and collaborating with partners to develop environmental education products that connect communities to nature. The Visitor Experience website is a valuable resource for TCINN partners looking to better serve their communities. Their collection of 30+ visitor services best practices includes guidance on starting a park prescription program, delivering culturally inclusive programming, incorporating nature-play areas, and more. They also offer park professionals a free self-assessment tool to help identify visitor service gaps and take specific steps to better serve their community and connect children to nature. Their innovative environmental education products are on-the-ground projects that connect children and families to nature. These products leverage engaging nature activities and are customized for different communities across Texas. The result is a strategy that is both scalable and adaptable to other regions. Products they have collaborated on are currently connecting Texas children to nature in eight out of nine TCINN chapters. Ky works closely with many TCiNN partners and credits them in so much of his career.

Some of their recent projects include Jr Ranger journals for Idaho State Parks, programming with the South Padre Island Nature Center, partnerships with the Oso Bay Wetlands, Lewisville Parks and Recreation, and a pilot project with the VA in the Bronx. Ky, says of his work his guiding principle is “How can we make it easier for nature professionals to do their work when they are already working with limited time and budgets.”