Rich Toppe Nature Education Scholarship
The Rich Toppe Nature Education Scholarship honors the legacy of Rich Toppe, a dedicated volunteer at Severson Dells Nature Center and lifelong educator. Rich was passionate about connecting people—especially children—with the wonders of the natural world. This scholarship program continues his legacy by ensuring students, regardless of financial barriers, have the opportunity to experience hands-on environmental education with Severson Dells Nature Center.
Rich was a fixture on canoe trips, known for his larger-than-life personality, teacher’s spirit, commitment to safety, and the blasting of “Take Me to the River” in the shuttle at the end of each trip.

Rich also brought joy to Little Pirates Camp as Captain Rustyclaw, ensuring smiles, laughter, and a love for nature in all who joined him. His dedication helped countless numbers of people to deepen their connection to nature.
The scholarship will provide low-income schools with field trip funding and give under-resourced and foster youth the opportunity to attend winter, spring, and summer camps. These programs provide kids the opportunity to explore forests, prairies, and streams while engaging in interactive learning experiences led by our expert educators. By removing financial obstacles, the Rich Toppe Nature Education Scholarship helps inspire curiosity, foster a love of nature, and create lasting memories for young learners.
If you would like to contribute to the Rich Toppe Nature Education Scholarship, you can donate in the following ways:
Online:
By Mail:
Send a check to Severson Dells Education Foundation at 8786 Montague Road, Rockford, IL 61102 (please note "Rich Toppe Scholarship" in the memo line).
By Phone:
Call 815-335-2915 to donate over the phone.
Rich Toppe Nature Education Scholarship Guidelines and Application Process
*note: applications for scholarships will open in summer of 2025
School Field Trip Scholarship Information and Application Form
Eligibility
- Your field trip must be booked and confirmed before applying. You can start the booking process here!
- Financial need (at least 50% of students at the school qualify for free and reduced lunch by ISBE.)
- The scholarship application form should be submitted at least 45 days prior to your field trip date.
- Eligible geographic area: Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson, and Ogle Counties
How to Apply:
Step 1: Book your trip.
Step 2: Please complete and submit the application form below :
School Field Trip Scholarship Application Form
Applications will be reviewed and awarded on a rolling basis. Award notification will be sent via email.
Scholarship Requirements:
Schools who are awarded a field trip scholarship must complete the online field trip feedback evaluation after their field trip.
Camp Scholarship Information & Application Form
Camp scholarships can be used for spring break camp or summer camp with Severson Dells. Families need to complete a brief application form by (date pending) and scholarships will be awarded by (date pending).
Eligibility:
- Families that qualify for free or reduced lunch
- Foster youth
- Geographic limitation: Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson, and Ogle Counties
We kindly ask that camp scholarship recipients complete the camp evaluation form to help us continue to improve our programs.
