RxPLORE™

RxPLORE™: Prescribing Life Outdoors and Real Exploration is a program designed to promote nature conservation and exploration. 

RxPLORE™ has a community-focused arm with a target population consisting of children, youth, and families living in low-income neighborhoods. The program also has a campus-focused arm with a target population consisting of the TCU campus community of students, staff, and faculty. 

RxPLORE™ has initiated activities for nature-based health promotion among the TCU campus and surrounding community. These activities include one-time events (nature prescription outreach), as well as ongoing programs (garden-based learning in local schools; park auditing with advocacy for equitable access). In the spring of 2021, the program will hold focus group sessions to explore students' thoughts and opinions about available green space on campus and the effect of nature on perceived mental health. 

On campus, RxPLORE™ collaborates with TCU Nursing, TCU Campus Health, and TCU Campus Recreation. Off campus, the program collaborates with the City of Fort Worth Parks & Recreation Department (including Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge), City of Fort Worth Open Space Conservation program, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, Texas Agrilife Extension, the Cross Timber Master Naturalists, and Fort Worth Independent School District.