Outdoor Mindset

Outdoor Mindset unites and empowers people affected by neurological challenges through a common passion for the outdoors.

OUR STORY
In 2009, a group came together inspired by a mutual friend’s determination to make something good come from a recent diagnosis of a brain tumor. Everyone shared a link to a neurological challenge (brain tumors, aneurysms, epilepsy, etc.). Their experiences ranged from personal diagnosis to supporting diagnosed family members and friends. The group also shared a passion for the outdoors, along with an unyielding enthusiasm for life. Now, the connections we make between others broaden the story. OM Community
Our community is available for anyone that shares our passion for the outdoors and has been affected by a neurological challenge. OM Meetups
Strengthens connections and empowers people in the OM community to get outside with others in their local area. OM Adventure Scholarship
Encourages people in the OM Community to live big through a funded adventure of their choice. WHY WE DO IT
● Social connections positively influence health. Information is helpful; however, according to researchers and healthcare providers, personally connecting with others has significant positive impact on patient health.
● We all know someone who has faced a neurological challenge. Each year in the United States:
○ Over 100,000 people are diagnosed with a primary or metastatic brain tumor.
○ 181,000 people are diagnosed with epilepsy
○ 10,400 people are diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS)
○ 50,000 people are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease
○ 1.7 million people sustain a traumatic brain injury
● Getting outdoors and being active helps too. Exposure to the natural environment of the outdoors directly correlates to improved neuropsychological function and behavioral attitudes toward managing challenges in diagnosis. Research has shown physical activity to be a significant factor in improving quality of life indicators among diagnosed individuals.