why we founded rise outside

We are a diverse collective of outdoor guides, educators, advocates and activists. We are climbers, alpinists, hikers, trail runners, birders, bikers, writers, authors, artists, performers and lovers of rocks, scat, tracks, plants and animals. And we are absolutely dedicated to diversifying the outdoors.

we recognize the transformative power of the outdoors for all. we founded rise outside to create an environment we would most want to teach in, one where everyone is made to feel welcome bringing their full selves in pursuit of reaching their full potential. Rise Outside is a non-profit with our bottom line committed to accessibility for underrepresented communities.

WE VALUE BUILDING COMMUNITIES ROOTED IN TRUST, RESPECT AND EMPATHY.

WE WORK TOWARDS A HUMBLE, TRANSPARENT AND HONEST PROCESS. WE EMBRACE NUANCE, KINDNESS AND COMPLEXITY RATHER THAN OFFERING  SIMPLE ANSWERS AND EASY FIXES. BUILDING A BETTER COMMUNITY REQUIRES PATIENCE AND LONG-TERM COMMITMENT.

WE CELEBRATE AND PROMOTE MOVEMENT AND ACTION. THE ACT OF RISING IS AN ACT OF MOVEMENT. WE NURTURE MOVEMENTS THAT EMPOWER PEOPLE IN THEIR COMMUNITIES. WE NURTURE MOVEMENTS THAT UNLOCK CREATIVITY AND LEADERSHIP AMONGST THE YOUTH. WE NURTURE MOVEMENTS THAT FIGHT INJUSTICE, INEQUALITY, INEQUITY, RACISM, OPPRESSION AND EXPLOITATION.

FOR MANY, WE CARRY HEAVY BURDENS WITH US EACH DAY. IN ORDER TO RISE, WE ACKNOWLEDGE, ENGAGE, AND MAINTAIN A DIALOGUE ABOUT THE STRUGGLES WE CARRY.