outward-bound-adventures

From the Ashes: A Community Reclaims Its Voice

lpatton@obainc.org (Logan Patton) — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 22:31:32 GMT

Since the devastating Eaton Fire in January, OBA created the Altadena Youth Emergence (AYE) Program, designed to serve and empower students directly impacted by the fires.

Darkness. A sudden blaze. 0 to 100—real quick.

There was no time to prepare. Only seconds to react. Just enough time to grab a few essentials, before scurrying out the door. You assume you’ll be back. But what happens when there’s nothing to come back to?

Last week marked six months since the Eaton Fire tore through the Altadena foothills and surrounding communities, leaving a path of destruction in its wake. Over 14,000 acres scorched. More than 9,000 homes and structures turned to ash. 150,000 people displaced, many of them seeking stability to this day. Among them, 200 families from John Muir High School–both children and caregivers suddenly thrust into survival mode, juggling school and work with the emotional toll of desolation.

In the wake of this unimaginable loss, something powerful began to take shape—enter the Altadena Youth Emergence (AYE) program. AYE is Outward Bound Adventures’ (OBA) commitment to nurturing resilience and recovery in the very youth who survived the flames. It’s a space of kinship, a container for collective healing, and a platform for youth to rediscover agency, identity, and belonging.

Its mission is simple but profound: to help Altadena youth process and navigate trauma while building a trusted community that can hold space for both pain and possibility. Through intentional outdoor experiences and cultural education, AYE equips participants with tools of resilience, reflection, and leadership.

This spring, AYE held its first healing retreat where students engaged in a journey of self-exploration, healing, and community-building in the Angeles National Forest. On Day 1, they went from OBA to Chilao School, where the group focused on getting acquainted and creating a safe, welcoming space. A playful team builder sparked conversation, followed by a deeply reflective “Self-Care Action Plan” activity using body outlines to map out personal wellness strategies. Students then wrote and shared powerful “I Am” poems, concluding with a collaborative group piece. After lunch, the afternoon turned toward grief and joy, with storytelling through nature using acorns and pinecones, and an art activity honoring personal stories of Altadena. Participants then hiked to a nearby viewpoint, and gathered around a candlelit altar for a grief meditation, concluding with a joyful campfire celebration.

Day 2, the theme shifted to leadership and collective strength. The morning began with a stretching circle and team-prepared breakfast, followed by continued self-reflection through poetry and affirmations. The group transitioned to Horse Flats Campground, where they explored healing through storytelling, hiking, and leadership challenges at the boulders and Hawk Rock. After lunch and a return to Chilao, the afternoon focused on rejuvenation through a serene flower arranging ceremony led by the Tzu Chi Buddhist Foundation. The experience concluded with a reflective drive back to OBA, leaving participants uplifted and more connected to themselves, each other, and the land.

Looking ahead, AYE plans to return to Chilao for a summer retreat, this time expanding their vision. In the fall, youth will co-lead a community summit—a day of restoration and celebration featuring student-led workshops, speakers, art galleries, music, and healing spaces. A summit designed by youth, for a community still recovering and also rising.

The impact of AYE’s work has not gone unnoticed. OBA was also featured on NBC—highlighting how the program is rewriting the narrative of disaster through healing, leadership, and hope. Check out the video here .

Out of the ashes, something remarkable is growing. Not just programs. Not just plans. But people. Young people. Strong people. And they are ready to lead.

A Week of Triumphs: OBA Celebrates ERT, YAC, and Global Recognition

lpatton@obainc.org (Logan Patton) — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 23:33:18 GMT

Celebrating the diversity of OBA’s impact: From receiving the prestigious Leave No Trace Award at the Global Summit 2024 to empowering youth through environmental stewardship and hands-on wilderness experiences.

The past few weeks have been incredibly eventful for Outward Bound Adventures (OBA), with significant accomplishments in environmental restoration, youth leadership, and global recognition.

In the Tahoe National Forest, the Environmental Restoration Team (ERT) wrapped up another productive week. Although this trip was shorter than their three-week summer project, the team worked efficiently, assessing picnic tables for sanding and repainting and identifying trail sections that need retreading. They also highlighted areas where tree canopies need lifting and access trails could be cleared for improved safety. The crew will return in late October for more restoration efforts, ensuring these natural spaces remain accessible and enjoyable for visitors.

Meanwhile, OBA’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC) celebrated the election of its new leadership team. Congratulations to President Gabriel Espino, Vice President Micah Craig, Secretary Grant Blizzard, Treasurer Ruby Sprague, Trips/Events Coordinator Dallas Hawkins, and Social Media Manager Chieko Sakamoto. This enthusiastic group is ready to guide their peers through a year of exciting adventures and growth, bringing fresh energy and ideas to the YAC and the broader OBA community.

OBA’s achievements extended beyond the forest and youth council this month. Staff members were selected to present at the prestigious Leave No Trace Global Summit in Boulder, Colorado, where they showcased OBA’s commitment to environmental stewardship on an international stage. With over 300 attendees from 12 countries, the summit was a valuable opportunity for OBA to highlight its work. Additionally, OBA received the Mission Excellence Award, one of only three awards presented at the 30th Anniversary Summit, celebrating our outstanding contributions to the Leave No Trace Wilderness Stewardship movement.

From impactful restoration work to empowering young leaders and gaining global recognition, OBA continues to make a lasting impact.

As OBA continues to make waves in environmental restoration, youth leadership, and global advocacy, it’s clear their impact is growing stronger with each passing week. From the diligent work of the ERT in Tahoe National Forest to the inspiring leadership of YAC's new cabinet and the international spotlight at the Leave No Trace Global Summit, OBA’s commitment to conservation and the community shine.

OBA's Exciting Gold Rush Adventures: Immersive Experience for Los Angeles Youth

lpatton@obainc.org (Logan Patton) — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 22:05:18 GMT

East Los Angeles Youth go for the Gold...Country!

Outward Bound Adventures (OBA) has been rolling out back-to-back trips during this scorching hot summer season. One of the highlights is kickstarting one of our first thematic trips to Gold Country. For five days, instructors took a group of high school students on a journey through Northern California's Gold Country to experience "The True Story of the California Gold Rush." exploring the impact that the event had on communities of color during that time.

The adventure kicked off in East Los Angeles at Alliance Morgan McKinzie High School with team-building activities such as the Name Game and a Map Activity. After a long, 10-hour drive with several rest stops, the team finally arrived at Sly Park Campground. They set up camp, acknowledged the Indigenous Peoples of the area, and shared their first "rose, bud, and thorn" moments around the campfire.

The rest of the trip combined educational historical elements with thrilling adventures, featuring a visit to renowned historical museums and two days of whitewater rafting to beat the heat. The students visited the State Indian Museum, utilized their discovery journals, and discussed the significance of Sutter’s Fort. They also visited the Marshall Gold Discovery Center, participated in a gold panning demonstration, and enjoyed a scavenger hunt. The first day on the water consisted of rafting on the Middle Fork 'Tunnel Chute.' Students, initially nervous, embraced the challenge and created unforgettable memories. On day two, they conquered the South Fork American River, culminating in a campfire circle where students shared their thoughts and lessons from the day.

The final day was bittersweet as the group packed up where they incorporated Leave No Trace principles, and made the long journey back to Los Angeles. Back at Alliance Morgan McKinzie High School, students shared final reflections before heading home, tired but full of incredible memories and new friendships.

This Gold Country trip was just the beginning of OBA’s exciting new thematic series. Participants are eagerly looking forward to more adventures, including multiple-day trips like 17 day Seawood and the renowned High Sierra trip. OBA remains committed to providing enriching, educational, and fun outdoor experiences for youth from all walks of life. We can't wait to embark on more thrilling journeys and inspire even more young explorers.

Stay tuned for more adventures and join us as we explore the great outdoors with OBA!

This trip was made possible through the support of the Youth Community Access grant through the California Natural Resources Agency.

AB 2465 Passed Forward by Senate Natural Resources Committee

lpatton@obainc.org (Logan Patton) — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 22:39:05 GMT

OBA Executive Director Charles Thomas Speaks in Support of Bill AB2465

In a significant step towards advancing equity and sustainability in agriculture and conservation, Charles Thomas, Executive Director of Outward Bound Adventures, recently spoke on the Senate floor in support of AB 2465. This bill, which successfully passed out of the Senate Natural Resources Committee, aims to broaden the scope of support for socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers, and organizations.

“People of color have grown tired of endorsing a system where we play a small role that keeps us powerless. AB 2465 will be an instrument of equity, a tool that will promote a presence for us and franchise us into a structure not built for or by us,” Thomas stated.

Generally, the funding gap between diverse and white-led organizations is clear and systemic. For example, Black and Latino nonprofit leaders receive only about 4% of philanthropic funding in the U.S., though they make up approximately 10% of nonprofit leadership nationwide. According to a Bridgespan analysis, the unrestricted net assets of black-led organizations are 76% smaller than their white-led counterparts, and their average percentage of revenue was less than half.

AB 2465 seeks to expand the definition of socially disadvantaged groups under the Farmer Equity Act of 2017 to include descendants of enslaved persons in the United States. Additionally, the bill mandates that various state entities, including the Wildlife Conservation Board and the Department of Conservation, prioritize grant funding for socially disadvantaged organizations until January 1, 2031.

Charles’ address underscores the commitment of Outward Bound Adventures to fostering diversity and equity in outdoor and environmental education. His support for AB 2465 aligns with the organization's mission to provide nature-based experiences to underserved youth and communities, advocating for broader systemic changes that benefit all.

Congratulations to the Environmental Restoration Team!

lpatton@obainc.org (Logan Patton) — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 22:05:10 GMT

Environmental Restoration Team Graduation at Flintridge Center

On Saturday, May 18th, the Flintridge Center buzzed with excitement and pride as the Environmental Restoration Team (ERT) celebrated a momentous graduation ceremony. The event, hosted by Trail Boss Porfirio Frausto and Executive Director Charles Thomas, honored the hard work and dedication of the ERT crew. The graduates, accompanied by their families, gathered to commemorate their achievements and certifications in wilderness first aid, crosscut, chainsaw, fire fuel removal, and other specialized skills.

The atmosphere was festive as graduates proudly received their certifications, marking the culmination of months of rigorous training and hands-on experience. These certifications not only validate their skills but also open doors to promising careers in environmental restoration and conservation.

Among the esteemed guests were Abigail Allen from the U.S. Department of Labor, District 3 councilman Justin Jones, and Jonar Rodrigo, a former member of the ERT who now serves with the US Forest Service. Their presence underscored the significance of the program and the impact it has on both individuals and the broader community.

The event featured heartfelt speeches, joyous celebrations, and a palpable sense of community. Graduates shared their journeys, reflecting on the challenges they overcame and the bonds they formed. Families beamed with pride, knowing that their loved ones were now equipped with valuable skills and a strong sense of purpose.

The ERT graduation at the Flintridge Center was more than just a ceremony; it was a celebration of achievement, growth, and the promise of a greener future. As the graduates embark on their next chapters, they carry with them the skills, knowledge, and inspiration to make a significant impact in the field of environmental restoration.

Congratulations to the ERT graduates of 2024! Your dedication and hard work have not only earned you well-deserved certifications but have also set a standard for future cohorts. May your journey be filled with continued success and meaningful contributions to our environment.

Embracing the Wild: A Journey from Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Student to Outdoor Leader

Thu, 02 May 2024 20:17:31 GMT

Instructor Jahs'tus Maat-Hotep reflects on one of his first OBA trips

Back in 2017, Jahs'tus Maat-Hotep's life took an unexpected turn, a twist of fate orchestrated by a stranger's invitation to embark on a High Sierra backpacking escapade with his brother. Little did he know, this chance encounter would set ablaze a fiery passion for the great outdoors, sculpting his destiny in ways he could have never imagined. Little did he know, this invitation would create a passion for the outdoors that would shape his future in profound ways.

As an introverted individual, Jahs'tus initially had reservations about joining the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) at Outward Bound Adventures (OBA). However, his experience in outdoor activities and fundraising with YAC proved transformative, challenging his preconceptions about who engages in outdoor adventures.

“My outdoor experiences in OBA ignited a newfound passion. Discovering such diversity in my own backyard challenged my preconceptions about people like me not engaging in outdoor activities. After that trip, I was certain about how I wanted to spend the next few years of my life, grateful for the encounter with that stranger who opened my eyes to new possibilities.”

After graduating from the Diverse Outdoor Leadership Institute (DOLI), Jahs'tus found himself not only equipped with the skills to navigate the wilderness but also with a newfound sense of purpose. He transitioned from being a participant to becoming an instructor, guiding students on life-changing outdoor expeditions.

Jahs'tus's involvement with OBA didn't just end with leading trips; it opened doors to employment opportunities, such as at REI, where he found a community of like-minded individuals who shared his passion for the outdoors. Through his job and connections at REI, Jahs'tus expanded his outdoor pursuits, diving into activities like rock climbing with newfound zeal.

Looking ahead, Jahs'tus envisions a future where he continues to lead trips and teach outdoor skills, providing diverse urban youth and families with opportunities they may never have imagined. His goal is not only to expose others to the wonders of nature but also to empower them to embrace the wild and forge their own paths.

In his seven years with Outward Bound Adventures, Jahs'tus has dedicated himself to personal growth and the enrichment of others' lives. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of outdoor experiences and the importance of opening doors for others to explore and connect with the natural world. One pivotal aspect of Jahs'tus's journey was obtaining his Leave No Trace (LNT) certification, solidifying his commitment to responsible outdoor practices. This certification underscored his dedication to preserving the natural beauty he had grown to love.

“OBA has enriched my life beyond its organization…it led to my employment at REI and introduced me to like-minded friends who share a passion for the outdoors. Building connections with individuals who share my interests has significantly enhanced my life.”

Outward Bound Adventures (OBA) Honored with Leave No Trace Inclusivity Award

lpatton@obainc.org (Logan Patton) — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 23:18:38 GMT

Celebrating Over Six Decades of Environmental Education and Diversity in Conservation

In recognition of Outward Bound Adventures (OBA) six decades of dedication in promoting inclusivity in outdoor spaces within Racially Marginalized Communities (RMCs) OBA has proudly been honored with the prestigious Outdoor Stewardship Inclusivity Award from Leave No Trace (LNT).

Founded in 1962, OBA holds the distinction of being the nation's longest-running non-profit organization committed to its mission to create a more inclusive and sustainable outdoor community. Fostering youth and adults of low-income/urban RMCs through environmental education, leadership development, and conservation workforce programs to form a deep connection with the outdoors, OBA has touched the lives of more than 95,000 participants, empowering them to explore, learn, and lead in the great outdoors.

Being an officially designated Leave No Trace Training Center, reaffirms OBA’s unwavering commitment to providing access and opportunities to marginalized communities, dismantling barriers, and cultivating a new generation of environmentally-conscious stewards.

OBA's Environmental Restoration Team Masters Crucial Trainings

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 22:33:53 GMT

OBA's Environmental Restoration Team (ERT) Train for Crosscut Certification

OBA's Environmental Restoration Team (ERT), whose dedication to preserving and restoring natural ecosystems recently achieved a monumental milestone by completing rigorous training in crosscutting, fire fuel removal, and chainsaw operation, earning certifications in all three disciplines.

Crosscutting, a traditional method of felling trees using manual saws, demands precision, skill, and utmost caution. ERT members immersed themselves in intensive crosscut training, honing their techniques under the guidance of seasoned experts. Through countless hours of practice, they mastered the art of felling trees with surgical precision, minimizing environmental impact and preserving habitat integrity.

ERT also undertook specialized training in fire fuel removal. Effective fire fuel removal techniques are indispensable for safeguarding ecosystems and communities alike. Equipped with knowledge of strategic fuel reduction methods, they provide assistance in mitigating wildfire risks and protecting vulnerable ecosystems.

Chainsaws are indispensable tools in the arsenal of environmental restoration, enabling efficient tree removal and habitat management. ERT members underwent rigorous chainsaw training, mastering the intricacies of operation while prioritizing safety above all else. Wielding these powerful instruments requires not only skill but also a deep understanding of safety protocols.

Armed with newfound skills and certifications, ERTs are poised to make an indelible impact on the landscape of environmental conservation. Whether it be restoring degraded ecosystems, mitigating wildfire risks, or preserving biodiversity hotspots.

Diversity in Outdoor Leadership: A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Supporters

lpatton@obainc.org (Logan Patton) — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 22:18:06 GMT

OBA welcomes the Mericos Foundation to our Headquarters

In a heartwarming display of support, Outward Bound Adventures (OBA) extended its deepest gratitude to the Mericos Foundation and the Confidence Foundation under the Whittier Trust Company. Both of their recent visits to OBA reflect a profound commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in outdoor education.

The significance of their support cannot be overstated. Through their generous funding, programs like the Diverse Outdoor Leadership Institute (DOLI) are thriving, empowering more instructors of color to take the lead in OBA's expeditions. This initiative not only enriches the educational experience but also amplifies diverse voices in outdoor leadership.

Moreover, their contributions fuel the endeavors of the Youth Advisory Council (YAC), which plays a pivotal role in opening up outdoor experiences to more youth of color. By providing access and opportunities, OBA and its partners are breaking down barriers and creating pathways for underrepresented communities to connect with nature and develop invaluable skills.

As OBA looks ahead, the partnership with Mericos, Confidence Foundation, and the Whittier Trust Company holds immense promise. Together, they are poised to make meaningful strides in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in outdoor education. With unwavering support from partners like these, OBA is not only enriching individual lives but also shaping a more inclusive and equitable outdoor community for generations to come.

To the visitors with Mericos and Confidence Foundation under the Whittier Trust Company, OBA extends its heartfelt thanks. Your support fuels our mission and strengthens our resolve to create a world where everyone, regardless of background, can explore, learn, and grow through outdoor experiences. Here's to a future filled with possibility and promise.

OBA Takes Over Catalina

lpatton@obainc.org (Logan Patton) — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 22:05:08 GMT

Our Youth Advisory Council (YAC) students took to the coast for a fun Catalina visit

Spring Break 2024, members of the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) embarked on an exhilarating journey to Catalina Island. For many of the students, this excursion marked their first foray into the realm of underwater exploration. Night snorkeling, in particular, offered a thrilling glimpse into the mysterious nocturnal marine life that inhabits the island's coastal waters. The following day brought new challenges and triumphs as students tested their mettle on Catalina's rugged terrain and participated in rock wall climbing.

Along with the breathtaking beauty of Catalina, it was the sense of camaraderie forged among peers and instructors that truly defined the experience. 17 year old senior, Savahna Rodriguez stated, “The highlight of my trip at Catalina was getting to experience fun activities with my friends. When I first left for the trip I was extremely excited and coming back was a bit sad for me, I wanted to stay longer. This trip has influenced me to go out into nature more.” Senior Karla Ferreira expressed, “I enjoyed being able to sit outside at night, and enjoy the sound of the waves. I felt kinda sad, and I hope we can go back someday. This trip made me happy I'm in OBA.”

In the end, the Catalina excursion was more than a weekend getaway—for the Youth Advisory Council it underscored the transformative power of nature and the value of fostering curiosity, embracing challenges and cultivating camaraderie among young people.

CHOIR REHEARSAL

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 04:51:12 GMT

Many years ago, as a young man and I walked through a Redwood forest. He turned to me and said “I think I found a new church.” He has been in the OBA conservation choir ever since.

Equity, Inclusion, Diversity, Justice - for those of us who have been the “choir” and in the business of getting people of color connected to nature, wilderness, and natural landscapes for as long as OBA has (60 plus years!) - those terms are old, anachronistic lyrics like the everpresent undersong of holy praise in every song a choir sings. It's time for the Choir to come back to the Sanctuary and rehearse a new song.

That new song should not just express what we need, instead its lyrics should construct a way forward that avoids the “Color Pimping and Access Rhetoric” it seems nearly every environmental, conservation, outdoor adventure organization is promoting to show that they are in the choir. These organizations know that there has always been a dearth of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) in conservation and wilderness recreation. Some have been singing a sweet little song about it for years- but without including the voices from BIPOC communities, their song lacked the soul and commitment needed to affect change. It's a very old issue that directly reflects the racist history of America. Most of those organizations chose not to make inclusion a priority until now, when it is very “uncool'' to not have an alliance with BIPOC communities. But hey; I ain’t mad at you! Better late than never!!

We should not discount the great work of the multitude of organizations who closely examined themselves early on and changed their organizations to assure they would become more diverse and inclusive. However, we are still moving far too slow. We need a new song.

We must bring new folks into the choir and change the tune. Diversity, justice and equity will be natural outcomes if every voice is lifted in perfect harmony to sing an anthem of directives. From now on we will sing about how we will deliver field based, conservation education, career knowledge, and workforce development to those communities who historically have not had access to the “church.” Can I get an Amen?

Our Past is Our Present and Our “Statements” Will Make it Our Future

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 02:05:01 GMT

A message to the conservation, environmental and outdoor education community from Outward Bound Adventures - Charles Thomas Jr.

I have grown extremely weary of the flurry of statements coming out of the nonprofit sector about their stand on injustice and how Black Lives Matter. Please do not take this the wrong way, written statements about where an organization stands are important, however simply writing without acting only maintains the status quo. To quote Gandhi, “Those who agree that racial inequality must be removed and yet do nothing to fight the evil are impotent.” In addition, where were those statements posted prior to this latest round of murders - and in case you are just up on current events, this madness has been going on for the past 400 years. It’s almost a given that by virtue of your mission, you’ve taken a stand against some form of injustice, and unless you have been living in a Whitehouse bunker, you’ve known the problem of racial injustice has existed since the creation of these United States. This is not an acute crisis; this is a chronic standard operating procedure that has allowed most white Americans to receive dispensations from an economy built on oppression, extirpation and systemic exclusion. So, while taking a stand and making a statement of support demonstrates solidarity, it does not necessarily mean your organization will move to eliminate the problem. Indeed, our organizations may very well be the problem because we patiently continue to seek justice in a system built on injustice, thereby prolonging the crisis and adding to the cycle of systemic exclusion. What would acting against injustice look like, especially in the outdoor education, land conservation sector?

We can start by accepting that there is an insidious catalogue of systemic barriers that categorically excludes black people and most urban people of color and hinders access to outdoor recreation. This system/cycle creates an “inbred” outdoor pedigree - a family history, identity and network of friends and access points to the outdoors - that funnels white folks into outdoor recreation and ultimately into 85 percent of the environmental/ conservation jobs - coveted jobs that are desperately needed and virtually unknown in many urban communities of color. This cycle must be broken and not by the impotent and feckless approach of inviting “others'' to the table. The entire table needs to be demolished and rebuilt via a collaborative effort by those who have historically been absent and those who have traditionally sat at the table. What else can we do to break the cycle?

1. Let your mission, your daily work and program outcomes make your statements about what side of justice your organization stands on.

2. Let the composition of your board of directors reflect the change you want to see in society and reflect who you want to serve.

3. Let the composition of your staff reflect the change you want to make. This doesn’t mean an all-black or all brown staff, rather a gender, ethnic and age eclectic that demonstrates equity, inclusion and cognitive diversity.

4. Let the physical location of your organization be your statement, do you have a presence where the greatest need is or are you spending time, money and effort to bring your constituents to what you believe they should experience?

5. Let your partnerships make your statement about what side of justice you stand on. Who do you coordinate with, what community organizations do you serve, are you picking only the lowest hanging fruit or are you digging deep and challenging your organization to engage the truly underserved?

6. There is a very large number of urban youth (especially African Americans) who do not connect to the outdoors and nature because it does not interest them. They have no interest because they lack the experience and exposure that comes from the outdoor pedigree cycle. My 40 years of work in this area has proven countless times that if they were introduced into the “cycle” they too would be eligible for and seeking those coveted jobs in conservation. If we are truly interested in standing on the side of justice, then our goal should be to franchise a demographic who are absent not so much by choice but by an unjust system of exclusion. Break the cycle and rebuild the table.