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 (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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Dayqian is a member of the Youth Advisory Council (YAC)