05/25/2026
Congratulations to Huellas Latinas! Earlier this month Huellas Latinas was awarded a Project Excellence Award at the 2026 National Outdoor Recreation Conference, recognizing outstanding contributions to the outdoor recreation profession.
Under the leadership of Luisana Méndez, founder of Huellas Latinas, this project has transformed outdoor access and community well-being for Latino families living in Minnesota. Huellas Latinas was created to address a critical gap: the lack of culturally relevant, inclusive, and accessible outdoor programming for the Latino community. Through intentional design, bilingual communication, and a deep understanding of cultural identity, the organization has empowered more than 1,500 families to reconnect with nature, improve their mental and physical health, and feel a sense of belonging in public outdoor spaces. Over the past several years, Huellas Latinas has facilitated more than 350 outdoor activities, including hikes, wellness walks, educational workshops, and family-centered nature experiences that welcome participants of all ages, including children and families with pets.
The impact of this project is visible in the growing participation, strengthened community networks, and increased confidence of Latino residents to explore Minnesota’s natural resources. Many participants join outdoor activities for the first time in their lives, overcoming cultural, linguistic, and social barriers that have historically limited their access. The organization operates with a dedicated team of 15 volunteers who work with passion, cultural competence, and a shared commitment to community well-being. These volunteers, along with community partners, help expand opportunities, strengthen outreach, and ensure that programming remains safe, welcoming, and inclusive.
