Desert Defender Challenge

The Living Desert is excited to offer a unique contest exclusively for Coachella Valley Title I schools (grades TK–12).

Winning schools will receive:

  • Free admission for up to 1,000 students and 100 chaperones (can be split across multiple trips)
  • Up to $5,000 to cover transportation costs
  • Hands‑on support from The Living Desert to implement a conservation project

Schools choose one project focus:

  • Plant Native: Install and maintain a native pollinator garden on campus (installation help provided by our team).
  • Pollution Solution: Create or enhance your school’s recycling/composting efforts with our guidance.

Contest Overview:

  • Eligibility: Coachella Valley Title I schools
  • Submission Limit: One application per school (principal approval required)
  • Field Trip Timing: October–December 2025
  • Deadline: September 15, 2025
  • Selection: Limited number of winners; notifications sent 1–2 weeks after the deadline
  • Chaperone Ratio: 1 adult per 10 students (extra chaperones not covered)
Click Here to Apply