About Us
who we are, what we do, and why outdoor equity is important to all of us
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Background and Organizational History
The Outdoor Equity Alliance became an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in September 2023, after initially operating under the umbrella of other organizations. This independence marks a significant milestone in OEA’s journey to promote environmental equity across Mercer County, New Jersey, and beyond. OEA is rooted in the belief that nature is a shared resource that belongs to everyone. It seeks to ensure that communities traditionally excluded from outdoor spaces can engage with and benefit from nature.
OEA’s work initially focused on building its organizational infrastructure and expanding its programming to reach more people.
As it grew, OEA developed key initiatives to offer outdoor education, workforce development opportunities and conservation projects in collaboration with schools, colleges, and community groups.
What We Do
What is Outdoor Equity and Why Does it Matter?
Meaningful access to the natural world is a basic human right. Outdoor equity refers to the objective that ALL people have access and opportunity to outdoor activities and natural spaces.
Experience and engagement with nature and the outdoors promotes physical, social, emotional and spiritual health, and instills an appreciation for our world and our environment. When a person has more access to the natural world, they develop a broader understanding of nature’s importance in our lives, and an increased sense of shared responsibility for caring for it.
Today, many children and adults in underserved communities face challenges that limit their ability to get out into our natural environment. These challenges include lack of transportation, lack of resources, lack of nearby green spaces, lack of access to outdoor education programs and experiences, and more. Nationwide these challenges are prevalent in urban centers and in communities of color.
Equitable access to the outdoors also opens opportunities for mentorship and avenues to careers in outdoor recreation, conservation, and the natural sciences, which foster a sense of stewardship of the environment.
Building a more inclusive experience with our natural environment is crucial to protecting our natural resources and our planet. In less than 25 years, the US Census Bureau projects that people of color will comprise more than 50 percent of our nation’s population. One in four adults have a disability. In less than 30 years, 22 percent of our nation will be over 55. The ongoing success of our preservation and conservation efforts will depend on the meaningful participation of a more diverse group of citizens.
How We Do It
Our “Big Ideas” address systemic inequities, empower marginalized communities and build sustainable solutions for environmental justice. Each initiative reflects our commitment to bold, impactful action that advances our mission and creates lasting change.
- We are Diversifying the Next Generation of Environmental Leaders,
- We are Transforming our Communities through Conservation, and
- We are Driving Urban Forestry for Resilient Cities.
Make an Impact. Give Today.
Our natural world needs US ALL to be working together, and OEA is working every day to make that promise a reality.
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