Programming

how we're changing systems

leading with purpose

At Color My Outdoors, our work is rooted in equity, representation, and empowerment. We are committed to creating a future where outdoor spaces are places of belonging, representation, and leadership for Black and Brown communities.

Our programming is designed to challenge stereotypes through storytelling, create generational change through skill-building experiences, and cultivate leadership and career trajectories that prepare Black and Brown individuals to participate in the outdoor industry’s $1.2 trillion economic impact.


Let’s Work Together

At Color My Outdoors, we’re not just imagining a more inclusive future – we’re building it. Every story we share, every community we touch, every stereotype we dismantle, and every barrier we break is a step toward a world where everyone feels welcome in the outdoors. This work is multifaceted and demands a collective effort.

our programs & Pillars of Impact

here's how we do it:

CHANGING PERCEPTIONS

Representation matters. When Black and Brown communities see themselves reflected in the outdoor story, they begin to reclaim their rightful place in it. We challenge stereotypes and reshape narratives in the outdoor industry by celebrating the diverse contributions, experiences, and stories of People of Color. 

CULTIVATING LEADERS

In the outdoor industry, People of Color remain significantly underrepresented, particularly in leadership roles. To address this disparity, our Cultivating Leaders pillar is dedicated to diversifying the outdoor industry by equipping Black and Brown individuals with essential qualifications for impactful careers. 

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MULTIMEDIA STORYTELLING PROGRAM

CHANGING PERCEPTIONS

At the heart of our work is our digital storytelling platform, powered by award-winning Creatives of Color who research, document, and share authentic stories through our website and social media channels. These dynamic storytellers thoughtfully document nature narratives that represent authentic Black and Brown experiences. We’re excited to feature these deeply moving stories that will (re)connect audiences to cultural narratives throughout the Southeast, the region we call home.

Our storytelling initiatives bridge the past and present, creating space for Black and Brown people to see themselves in nature. If you are a Creative of Color (i.e. photographer, videographer, writer, illustrator) or you have a story to tell, submit your story so we can share your nature narrative with our online audiences.


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WILDERNESS MEDICINE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

CULTIVATING LEADERS

Through this initiative, our goal is to see more Black and Brown folks in the great outdoors – not just as participants, but also in careers and leadership positions across all aspects of the industry. Color My Outdoors provides financial support to help more People of Color obtain their Wilderness First Aid or Wildness First Responder certification and enhance their outdoor career.

We believe that by eliminating the financial barrier that often hinders Black and Brown people from pursuing careers that require certifications as job qualifiers we can increase representation among leaders in the outdoor industry. Download your application today, and let's work together to create a more diverse and inclusive outdoor industry by removing barriers and promoting excellence.



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BUILDING SKILLS & CONFIDENCE

Breaking generational cycles of exclusion from the outdoors starts with fostering joy and connection. We help adults reclaim their connection to nature by equipping them with the skills and confidence to embrace outdoor exploration and share it with their families and communities. By transforming the way adults see themselves in outdoor spaces, this pillar begins the powerful work of letting go of internalized stereotypes and creating lasting change. 

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COLLABORATING TOWARD CHANGE

The outdoor industry is on the brink of transformation, and diverse-led organizations are at the heart of that change. We are building tools and connections that empower Black and Brown leaders to thrive in the outdoor industry. By addressing systemic barriers and providing the resources businesses need to succeed, we’re fostering a collective movement for equity and inclusion in outdoor spaces. 

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PARENT ORIENTATION PROGRAM

BUILDING SKILLS & CONFIDENCE

Our skill-building programs bring families together to discover the outdoors in meaningful ways. The Parent Orientation Program partners with third-party organizations that reintroduce Kids of Color in outdoor spaces. These sessions help parents feel comfortable with their children adventuring outdoors by addressing concerns, answering questions, and building foundational nature skills.

Parents leave with both the confidence to support their kids' explorations and the tools to recreate these opportunities on their own. If your organization helps Kids of Color build new relationships with the nature around them and you need support engaging their parents, we’d like to discuss how we can partner. Reach out to us, and let’s explore the possibilities for creating true generational change. 




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DIRECTORY OF DIVERSE-LED OUTDOOR ORGANIZATIONS

COLLABORATING TOWARD CHANGE

Coming in the spring of 2025, we’re excited to launch the Southern Directory of Diverse-Led Outdoor Organizations. This online, searchable, interactive directory will connect Black and Brown communities with outdoor organizations that reflect their identity and values. This directory is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of diverse-led organizations and create safer, more inclusive connections between communities and the great outdoors.

Click below for your invitation to join us as a beta tester. Here is your opportunity to showcase your business (at no cost to you) while helping us refine this pioneering tool designed to increase representation in outdoor spaces. 





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