Outdoor Outreach

05/26/2026

Meet Thao 💪

Outdoor Outreach gave him a community that empowered him to step outside his comfort zone and discover his potential. Today, he’s come full circle as a Youth Programs Assistant and Field Instructor, helping guide the next generation through those same moments of growth and belonging.

Your support helps young leaders like Thao thrive outdoors and beyond. Help us raise $25,000 by June 29th so more youth can build confidence, trust, and connection.

Donate today: http://donate.outdooroutreach.org/less-scrolling-more-exploring

05/19/2026

This summer, young people are spending more time on screens and less time exploring their world.

Because of YOU, our supporters, we’re connecting 1,800 youth to the transformative power of the outdoors through 500 programs this year.

💥 89% say time outside helps them feel better.
💥 90% want to go back.

We have a goal to raise $25,000 by June 29 so even more youth can experience the outdoors, try something new, and discover what they’re capable of.

DONATE today: https://donate.outdooroutreach.org/less-scrolling-more-exploring

05/15/2026

🎥 New Video Alert!

Produced by youth alumni from The David's Harp Foundation, Inc. in collaboration with The Prebys Foundation Foundation, this video captures our mission in action—and why this work matters.

We hope you enjoy it!

05/08/2026

Earlier this year, we spent three days backpacking at Mount San Jacinto State Park with an incredible group of students from High Tech High Chula Vista’s Outdoor Leadership Training Club. 🏕️

The trek was full of moments that reflected leadership, perseverance, and collective growth. 🌱

✨And for one student, who said they didn’t like backpacking before the trip, something shifted along the way. On the hike out, they admitted they actually enjoyed it and learned valuable lessons of leadership along the way. ✨

Want more stories like this? Check out our latest newsletter for highlights from another recent backpacking trip: https://tr.ee/8GiXW4

05/03/2026

From the snowpack to the ocean 🌊 Thanks to funding from California Environmental Protection Agency, youth are getting the chance to experience and understand the full journey of water firsthand.

On this trip, Chula Vista High students hiked Mt. Laguna, which serves as headwaters of the Tijuana River Watershed. By the time that water reaches the South Bay, it’s often too polluted for safe recreation at the beaches closest to home.

Because of California Environmental Protection Agency’s support, these experiences open the door for youth to build connection, confidence, and the drive to advocate for healthier, more equitable communities.

05/01/2026

Earlier this week, we joined advocates from across the state at California Ocean Day. Together we met with legislators to push for a safer, more equitable coast and advocate for funding through the Outdoor Equity Grant Program and Whale Tail Explore the Coast Program. 🌊

We also sat in on the Assembly’s recognition of the Coastal Act’s 50th anniversary, joined a press conference at the Capitol, and attended panels on the Tijuana River Pollution Crisis and Surf Justice Collective.

The highlight of the trip was watching our youth leaders share their stories directly with decision-makers and confidently call for change!
mar.de.coloressurfers

04/25/2026

04/15/2026

Looking for a paid way to serve your community? 🌟

California Service Corps is recruiting 500 fellows in San Diego for Fall 2026 through programs like AmeriCorps, College Corps, CA Climate Action Corps, and Job Corps.

These opportunities offer a strong next step for Outdoor Outreach program grads and ANY younger adults interested in serving their community.

Thank you to partners like California Volunteers for helping connect young adults to meaningful service opportunities.

Learn more at CAServiceCorps.com (link in bio)

04/10/2026

The Outdoor Outreach team had an amazing time at the State Capitol yesterday alongside our partners for Parks Now Coalition Day!🏞️✨

We joined youth in advocating, sharing powerful stories of impact with state legislators, and emphasizing the importance of funding outdoor access infrastructure and programming. We also highlighted why supporting AB 2734 is critical for organizations and the communities they serve across California.

04/01/2026

We’re excited to share that Outdoor Outreach has been recognized with the Kaleidoscope Award for Good Governance from the University of San Diego’s Nonprofit Institute.

This award honors the leadership and commitment of our Board of Directors and Advisory Council, whose time, expertise, connections, and support help guide our mission and strengthen our impact across San Diego County and beyond.

Because of their partnership, more young people can step outside, try something new, and discover what they’re capable of.

Thank you to our entire community of supporters, and especially our Board of Directors and Advisory Council, for helping make this work possible. 🌿✨