Tag: #OptOutside


Volunteers Make the (Outdoor) World Go ‘Round Learning

Whether we’re talking about nonprofit organizations, afterschool programs, community initiatives or beyond, there’s no doubt that volunteers are at the heart of many efforts to connect young people—any people, really—with the outdoors. Below, we’ve gathered some useful resources to help you find and manage volunteers, while also offering a few suggestions for those who are interested in volunteering or encouraging other people to volunteer on...

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5 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day Every Day in Your Program Learning / Stewardship

Each year on April 22nd, we observe Earth Day, a celebration of the environment. The concept has grown since its inception in 1970 to include weeklong and even month-long activities and conversation, creating a wealth of opportunities (and resources) to teach and engage in principles of environmental protection and stewardship. With the phrase “Earth Day is every day” in mind, here are five ways you...

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Go All-In on Black Friday by Choosing to #OptOutside News / Partners

In 2015, REI sparked conversation – and a larger movement – when they made the shocking announcement that they would not only close their stores on the Friday after Thanksgiving, but that they would also pay their 12,000+ employees to essentially play outside that day instead. The idea was to encourage people to skip the traditional shopping rush on what’s become known as “Black Friday”...

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How To Combine Stewardship Into Recreation Programming Learning / Stewardship

Whether by leading a hike, hosting a campout, teaching climbing skills, or coordinating an environmental education class, outdoor educators, and program leaders are responsible for helping others form lifelong connections to the natural world. However, it’s also important to remember our responsibility to help preserve and protect the places where we teach and play by weaving the concept of stewardship into programming whenever possible. All...

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