TYO would not be possible without the generous financial support of The North Face.  As part of its mission to start a global movement of Outdoor Exploration, The North Face became a founding sponsor of TYO in addition to introducing The Explore Fund in 2010. The Explore Fund has since provided more than $1.5 million in U.S. grants to more than 300 non-profit organizations committed to inspiring the next generation of outdoor explorers and conservationists.

For 2015, The North Face selected a total of 47 organizations engaging more than 30,000 people in outdoor recreation focusing on projects that use outdoor exploration as the catalyst for positive, personal or societal change, provide experiences that nurture an appreciation of the outdoors or encourage participants to try new outdoor activities that allow outdoor exploration and adventure.

“It is exciting to see the incredible organizations who are just as passionate about giving more kids the opportunity to experience the outdoors as we are,” said Ann Krcik, senior director of Outdoor Exploration at The North Face. “Together we are making an investment in the next generation of outdoor explorers who will grow to love and protect the wild places we all love to play.”

TYO is working with the Explore Fund grantees, ensuring that they have all of the resources they need to continue to build and sustain amazing programs. Recent Explore Fund grantee The Big Sur Land Trust had this to say about their experience in the TYO community. “TYO is a fantastic resource for organizations developing Outdoor Programs. Not only does this interactive tool provide critical information, planning tools, and recommendations for organizations starting outdoor programs, but also connects the individuals working in the field. As a land trust in its third year creating outdoor programs, we will continue to use the resources from TYO to connect youth to the land.”