At Sacramento Splash, sparking a lifelong love for the outdoors begins with connecting children to nature through transformative experiences. This mission has attracted two remarkable individuals to our team: Board Member Volker Otto and Program Manager for Project AWE, Garrett Werner. Each brings a unique perspective and skill set to help Splash inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
Volker’s Journey: From East Germany to the Golden State
Volker Otto’s path to Sacramento Splash started in East Germany, followed by years in Munich and now the Sacramento area. With a career spanning over 30 years in IT, Volker has worked for industry giants like Deutsche Telekom, Compaq, and Hewlett-Packard, leading diverse teams across the globe. Beyond his technical expertise, Volker’s connection to nature stems from his childhood, long before the digital age.
“I grew up without computers and the internet,” Volker recalls. “Being outside was just how we spent our time. I want today’s kids to have that same freedom to explore.”
Now, as a father of four, Volker has witnessed the profound impact of outdoor experiences on young minds. His role on the Splash Board allows him to contribute his organizational acumen and international insight to strengthen the programs that connect children to the natural world. Volker is passionate about advancing Splash’s mission by enhancing its technical infrastructure and expanding its support network to reach even more young explorers.
Garrett’s Path: A Lifelong Love for the Outdoors
For Garrett Werner, the outdoors has always been a source of inspiration. Growing up in Maryland, his childhood was filled with canoeing through marshes and summer crabbing adventures. That early connection to nature evolved into a two-decade career as an outdoor educator and mountain guide. In 2011, Garrett and his wife embarked on a life-changing journey, hiking the entire Pacific Crest Trail—a 2,750-mile trek from the Mexican border to Canada.
“We fell in love with California along the way,” Garrett says.
Garrett’s professional journey has been enriched by a Master’s in Resilient and Sustainable Communities, bringing a holistic approach to environmental education. After moving to the Sacramento region to embrace its rivers, wetlands, and mountains, Garrett’s connection to Splash was cemented when his oldest son joined the inaugural Youth Environmental Leadership Camp (YELC) in 2022. Inspired by his son’s experiences, Garrett joined the Splash team, eager to guide young people in discovering the beauty of the natural world.
United by Splash’s Mission
Volker and Garrett exemplify the values that drive Sacramento Splash: fostering a deep appreciation for the environment through hands-on, impactful experiences. As Volker wisely puts it:
“You don’t protect what you don’t value and only value what you truly love and savor.”
This philosophy directly reflects Splash’s mission:
Helping children understand and value our natural world.
And aligns with our vision:
A generation of children who value the natural world and take an active role in its protection.
Whether through Garrett’s direct engagement with children in outdoor settings or Volker’s behind-the-scenes efforts to build strong systems, both are integral to Splash’s growth and innovation. We’re thrilled to have them on board as we expand our reach and impact.
Ready to support Splash’s mission? Join us in helping kids fall in love with nature, donate, or spread the word. Every contribution and shared story brings us one step closer to a world where every child has the chance to discover the magic of the outdoors.