This project was designed to give children opportunities to discover and to investigate plants, animals, and ecological relationships in their own neighborhoods. Through hands-on, natural science investigations, children have opportunities to find and observe a variety of plants and animals, look at them closely, sort them to analyze their similarities and differences, discuss ecological relationships, share discoveries, and wonder about the unknown. The children learn that nature is everywhere, in vacant lots, trees, and the playground. The activities are written to teach observation and critical thinking skills. This paper documents the processes used to begin and carry out this program. Chapters include: (1) "Starting with a 'Think Tank'"; (2) "Conducting a Needs Assessment"; (3) "Designing the Project and Defining Objectives"; (4) "Selecting Appropriate Learning Activities"; (5) "Selecting Pilot Test Sites and Gaining Their Participation"; (6) "Recruiting and Training Volunteers"; (7) "Assembling Materials and Supplies"; (8) "Conducting the Pilot Test and Evaluating the Results"; (9) "Expanding the Program to Reach More Children"; (10) "Getting Financial Backing"; and (11) "Establishing a Fee Structure." Appendices include: project director job description; volunteers' portfolio; materials for site planning meetings; pilot evaluation forms; host site application; team leader job description; printed material for members' approval and phonathon; and publications cited. (CW)