Environmental based science education nonprofit
About The Youth Science Institute
Featured Supporters
The Youth Science Institute (YSI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to igniting a love of learning and enthusiasm for science. Since 1953, YSI has been a leader in hands-on, nature-based science education throughout the Bay Area.
Our Mission
Inspiring enthusiasm for science and a love of learning in children, families, and communities.
YSI partners with nature to bring science learning to life.
By connecting children and families with the natural world around them, YSI creates meaningful opportunities to explore, ask questions, and learn through direct experience.
Each program aims to inspire curiosity, nurture hope, and instill a sense of personal responsibility and agency in shaping the future.
Approaches We Follow
Engaging Programs
We offer School and Group Programs, Summer Science Camps, weekend events, and annual community events
Interactive Learning
Our activities include live animals, nature hikes, and inquiry-based science education across multiple disciplines.
Community Impact
Annually, we introduce nearly 30,000 students from PreK to sixth grade to the wonders of science
Our Locations
Visit us at one of our three locations. We look forward to seeing you!
Meet The YSI Team
Dan Gross
Allyson Dudzinski
Olivia Kramer
Alex Schord
Jack Smestad
Emma Madden
Leisa Johnson
Erik Sommerstad
Gabriella Udelhoven
Karizma Chavez
Jason Nishijima
Sean McCullough
Shane Machover
