The mission of Open outside is to collaborate with communities to cultivate a deep sense of belonging to nature among young people.

why we’re here

As an outdoor education and professional development program, we partner with organizations that support youth facing both historical and contemporary challenges to accessing the natural world.

We provide essential resources and training for educators, youth workers, and families, helping them recognize and harness the power they already possess to facilitate impactful outdoor trips and experiences.

We envision a future where all young people feel a deep-rooted connection to the natural world—a place where they belong, explore, and thrive. By breaking down barriers to access, we aim to create opportunities for every youth to experience nature as a home, cultivating not just a sense of adventure, but a lasting relationship with the outdoors.

Together, we are building a world where the outdoors is a familiar and cherished space, fostering a generation of young people who are both stewards and part of the natural world.



Core beliefs

There is no correct way to be in nature.

Everybody has an innate connection to the natural world.

We all have more when we share.

Community is the greatest teacher.