Our Story
How a love of birds became a mission for Colorado's children.
Why We Exist
Colorado Desperately Needs This
One in five children struggle with anxiety or depression. Our schools are more structured than ever, yet most students have never experienced the simple joy of watching a bird or understanding their role in nature.
Research shows time in nature can reduce childhood anxiety by up to 55%. Yet, we've designed a world where these moments are increasingly rare.
The Perch Project was founded to change that — bringing the proven mental health benefits of birdwatching and nature stewardship directly into Colorado schools, one classroom at a time.
reduction in childhood anxiety linked to regular nature exposure
Aarhus University / PNAS, 2019
of improved mental wellbeing from a single encounter with birds
King's College London / Scientific Reports, 2022
Our Mission
Mental Health Through Nature Connection
Mission: To improve the mental health and well-being of Colorado youth by integrating birdwatching and nature stewardship into K-12 education.
Vision: Every Colorado school connected to the rhythm of nature — where students discover confidence, focus, and wonder through hands-on experiences with the natural world.
Values: Integrity, transparency, measurable impact, and the belief that every child deserves a relationship with nature.
A perch is where a bird lands, rests, observes, and launches. We are giving Colorado's children that same foundation — a place to discover and grow before they take flight.
Leadership
Meet the Founder
Dean Seifert
Founder & Executive Director
Dean Seifert is a Colorado business owner and birding enthusiast who recognized an urgent need: children spending less time in nature and more time struggling with anxiety and disconnection.
Drawing on years of experience in the Wild Birds Unlimited retail network and a deep commitment to his community, Dean founded The Perch Project to bridge the gap between classroom education and the transformative power of the natural world.
Governance
Join Our Founding Board
We are seeking 4-5 passionate leaders to provide governance and strategic direction as founding board members of The Perch Project.
Governance
Provide strategic oversight and ensure mission alignment.
Fundraising
Open doors and champion our cause in the community.
Education
Connect us with schools, educators, and curriculum experts.
Impact
Help design and measure student outcomes.
Our Commitment
Transparency & Accountability
We are building this with integrity. Every dollar goes directly to student impact. We will measure our outcomes, stay transparent, and remain accountable to our mission.
- Registered 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization
- Annual impact reports with measurable outcomes
- Financial statements and Form 990 published annually
- Independent board of directors providing oversight
- Program evaluation by third-party researchers