Mission, Vision & Values
Making “Nature for All” a Reality
Make a Donation
The Outdoor Equity Alliance (OEA) is a nonprofit organization that fosters equity and justice in nature. What sets us apart is our unique approach to creating accessible and inclusive educational, recreational and career opportunities in the environmental sector. We focus on developing strategies and programs that are effective in empowering marginalized communities. OEA’s mission is to break down barriers preventing socially and economically marginalized people from experiencing, enjoying and benefiting from nature. Below is a comprehensive overview of the organization’s background, programs, mission and strategic vision for growth.
OEA Mission
To create equitable access to nature in all communities and inspire a diverse new generation of environmental leaders.
OEA Vision
We envision inclusive and accessible outdoor spaces where individuals and families of all backgrounds can connect with nature year-round. By addressing systemic inequities, we will expand education and workforce development opportunities in conservation, empowering marginalized communities to lead in environmental justice.
Our programs will emphasize community-led conservation, inspiring stewardship, promoting sustainable practices, and
enhancing the social, environmental, and economic benefits of natural resources. Through scalable initiatives, we aim to position New Jersey as a leader in conservation, fostering a diverse and inclusive outdoor community.
enhancing the social, environmental, and economic benefits of natural resources. Through scalable initiatives, we aim to position New Jersey as a leader in conservation, fostering a diverse and inclusive outdoor community.
OEA Values
The following core values guide OEA’s work:
- Conservation: OEA is deeply committed to the conservation of natural resources. It promotes stewardship of land, water, wildlife and ecosystems by providing communities with the skills to care for and preserve these resources.
- Environmental Justice: OEA seeks to advance environmental justice by ensuring that socially and economically marginalized communities are safeguarded against environmental harm and have equitable access to nature and conservation efforts. The organization values distributive, procedural and recognition justice, ensuring that all voices are heard in decision-making processes and that all people share in the benefits of environmental projects.
- Collaboration: This is the heart of OEA’s approach. We believe in the power of partnerships to achieve impactful results. The organization works closely with various partners, including schools, nonprofits and community organizations, to expand its reach and impact. We value each partner’s unique contributions and strive to create a sense of community in our shared mission for environmental equity.
- Career Opportunities: OEA’s central focus is creating pathways into the environmental sector for individuals from all backgrounds through training, mentorship, and education that will properly prepare the next generation of environmental leaders.
- Education: OEA is committed to providing high-quality, standards-based educational experiences that encourage a deeper understanding of the natural environment, promote lifelong learning and inspire a passion for conservation.
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.
Donate Now