Meet Gus! A fearless MN explorer who gardens, bikes, skis & swims! Creative, strong & kind to his sisters — he lives for the outdoors.
Thank you for generously supporting Gus in this year’s competition. Your participation helps empower the National Wildlife Federation in their mission to protect wildlife, restore habitats, and inspire the next generation of conservationists.
Mud pies stuffed with wildflowers, worm cities, climbing trees, and kayaking in search of turtles — nature is where Gus's personality and creativity shine brightest. He bikes trails, shreds snow, and has even figured out how to tow his sisters on rollerblades with a dog leash. Gus approaches every inch of the natural world with curiosity and a willingness to just dig in — literally. The seasons change and the years pass, but Gus continues to be his very best in nature.
When I asked Gus why penguins are his favorite animal, he just shrugs and says, “because they’re so cute.” And honestly? He’s not wrong. They waddle like little gentlemen in tuxedos, belly-slide across ice, and somehow look both silly and dignified at the same time. Some things don’t need a complicated reason. Pure, simple joy — that’s a pretty great answer from a pretty great kid.
Though Gus skis, snowboards, mountain bikes and more, his truest joy is unstructured free play in his backyard. No rules, no schedule — just him, the dirt, the bugs, and whatever he finds. It’s where he’s most himself. He doesn’t need a destination or a coach to fall in love with the outdoors. He just needs to be left outside. Nature does the rest.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like Jr. Ranger, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.
