Five-year-old Geo from South Bend isn’t trying to be famous. He’s just a kid who loves getting muddy, collecting rocks, and spotting the occasional bird on a family hike. But this summer, he’s taken on a new adventure—competing in a national Jr. Ranger competition hosted by the National Wildlife Federation.
Known online as “Jr. Ranger Geo,” the kindergartener-to-be is one of thousands of kids across the country who entered the multi-stage contest, which celebrates children who show a budding love for the outdoors and wildlife. Geo is currently in the Top 10 of his competition group—one of many across the country, each of which began with around 87 participants.
He’s now working to advance to the next round, with the goal of becoming the top vote-getter in his group by June 26. If he makes it to first place in his group’s final round, he’ll earn a spot in the quarterfinals alongside the top competitors from every other group. From there, the competition narrows down further through semifinals and one ultimate final round, with a grand prize winner announced on Geo’s birthday in August.
It’s a long shot—but that hasn’t stopped the community from getting behind him.
Geo’s supporters can vote once per day for free at https://jr-ranger.org/2025/geo-83c2, and additional votes can be cast through donations to the National Wildlife Federation. Votes are verified using Facebook to help ensure fairness, and money raised supports wildlife conservation and environmental education.
The campaign has taken on a fun, mysterious twist—Geo’s real face hasn’t been shown online. Instead, he’s represented by a cartoon version of himself in a ranger badge, with a playful mask over his eyes. If he goes all the way and wins the contest, he’ll be unmasked for the first time on the cover of Ranger Rick magazine.
“We’re keeping things low-key and safe for now, but it’s been a blast seeing people ask, ‘Who is this masked ranger?’” said Erin Bonin, Geo’s mom. “It’s really just about having fun and encouraging kids to enjoy the outdoors.”
Geo’s curiosity about nature has been gently nurtured over the years by regular walks, family park visits, and hands-on moments—digging in the dirt, watching birds, collecting rocks, and asking lots of questions. He’s helped pick up trash on trails and knows why it’s important not to disturb animals in their natural habitat. But his parents are quick to note: he’s a normal kid, and a lot of his ranger-style enthusiasm comes from their encouragement as a family.
“He’s not an expert or a mini wildlife biologist—he’s a 5-year-old who happens to be growing up in the city and just really loves being outside,” Erin said with a smile. “That’s what this is all about: reminding kids (and grownups) that a little curiosity goes a long way.”
If Geo does go on to win the $20,000 grand prize, he’s already committed to donating $5,000 of his winnings to the St. Joseph County Parks Foundation to support nature-based programming for children.
“Our family has benefited so much from our local parks,” Erin said. “As a board member for the Foundation, I know how valuable these programs are—and how many more kids could be reached with even a small investment. This is our way of giving back.”
To follow Geo’s progress and cheer him on, visit his Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/jrrangergeo, or cast a daily vote at https://jr-ranger.org/2025/geo-83c2.
He may be one small Ranger in a big forest of contestants—but with enough support, he just might go the distance.
