Black Folks Don't Camp
Check out the newest installment of the series, Black Folks Don't... by Black Public Media.
Of course, we here at Outdoor Afro know that black people DO camp, and I know some Outdoor Afros will be offended by the title alone. But I invite you all to take it as a funny and irreverent discussion about black people and camping that may inspire conversastions about deepening our collective engagement with nature. Share how you love to camp in the comments below!
Outdoor Afro Obamas
"Hope everyone gets in a little family time this weekend."
- President Obama
How are you connecting with nature and family this weekend?
A Great Day at the Beach: Outdoor Afros Kick-Off Windy City Events!
Outdoor Afro is proud to feature Viva Yeboah of Outdoor Afro Chicago! A passionate nature-lover, Viva joined our Outdoor Afro Leadership team in April. We welcome her and are so glad to hear her words about the OA Chicago kick-off event!
On a windy 90’s degree day, Outdoor Afro held its first event in Chicago. With the guidance from Rue Mapp, Outdoor Afro Founder, and my sis, I organized a kickoff event at 31st Street Beach in Chicago Bronzeville neighborhood. This event gave folks a chance to hang out, find out more info on Outdoor Afro, meet the Chicago leadership, meet some cool people and express their ideas for future events. The location was excellent! It wasn’t too crowded, a great view of the city and a nice breeze from the lake. With the help of two good friends, we got the table, games, and snacks set up.
The event was a success! We had the 90’s music jamming, played a good game of volleyball and Twister and enjoyed some of great snacks and the best homemade southern sweet tea (lol). In total there were 11 attendees. We had a great diverse group with ages from 2 yrs. to 50 yrs.
This was such a learning experience for me. I am not an expert, so I was a bit nervous and worried about the success of our first event. The idea of failure crossed my mind many times. But Rue, who shared her own experiences, really helped me to focus on QUALITY rather than QUANTITY -- that as regional leaders, our goal is to invite and organize exciting outdoor activities; provide a space for people to enjoy the outdoors, try activities they never would have considered, to learn more about nature and to appreciate and respect our environment.
I truly appreciate everyone that was able to attend our first event and those that expressed interest for future events. Look out Chicago!!
Outdoor Afro’s #1 Girl Heads to Girl Scout Camp
Today was a special day in the Mapp household, my daughter Arwen and friend Maya began their first day at a week long summer program at Camp Bothin, located in Marin County, California with the Girl Scouts of Northern California.
All last week was spent picking up last minute items at REI, and making sure all the requisite forms and supplies were accounted for. But as the departure day grew near, I noticed Arwen became more excited, and I more nervous.
See, this is the first time my daughter has slept away from home for so long without family.
Even her 4th grade overnight trip to local Point Bonita with her class a few months ago did not adequately prepare me for the discomfort of today – and the recognition of her independence and need to create bonds and friendships outside of the shelter of our family and local community. She was doing big girl thangs I realized!
Being Outdoor Afro does not always shield me and my family from the challenges of connecting with the outdoors. I appreciated and experienced first hand how it takes a lot of effort, resources, and coordination to get a little girl to camp!
So as I was checking daughter in, there I went with all the nagging concerns of any parent - experienced or not with the camp experience:
Where are the bathrooms? Are they clean? - click to see for yourself
What counselor will sleep in the room with the girls? Who are they?
Will the girls get along?
But mixed in with any anxiety of leaving my daughter, was also a deep sense of anticipation and pride. I remember vividly the joy of camping with my own Girl Scout troop when I was exactly her age. The songs we sang; rituals we performed to open and close the days, our “kapers” (chores), and a sense of community of all girls where you felt the joy of endless possibility. Those experiences still powerfully inform my work today, and I am grateful my daughter gets to continue this particular tradition of connecting to nature.
As Maya’s mom and I left the girls, who were already making new friends, we did feel a sting of sadness in our eyes, but deeper within recognized the gift of camp that will remain with these girls forever.
Did your children attend overnight camp this year? Was it challenging? Easy? Let us know!
Check out more American Camp Association Accredited Camps like this one, and other Girl Scout Camps!
The Glampire Camps Back! Outdoor Afro Returns to KOA
Just recently, my family had a chance to return to Kampgrounds of America (KOA) to take part in their first ever “Blogger Night” at its new Ventura Ranch location in Southern California, to help get the word out about this terrific camping option for everyone. After my last KOA post, my social networks on and offline went all abuzz with fellow moms who said, now THIS is the kind of camping I can do! And at least two families in my network were inspired since to make reservations at KOAs this summer!
Like many of you, all my life I have whizzed by the iconic yellow and black KOA signs that dot the American highway on family road trips, and never quite understood what they represented, until just this year. And I will never look at them the same way.
See, when I was in my teens and early 20s, sleeping on the ground, under the night sky was an adventure. But years later, as a mom with three young children in tow who needed access to clean bathrooms at a moment’s notice, camping became way more work than relaxation, and the idea of returning home more exhausted than energized was not the way I wanted to end family vacations. While my kids and I still value the sounds of overnight nature under a canopy of stars from inside our tent, we have also experimented with a wide variety of other camping options in recent years -- from our city’s family camp, to trailers and RVs, and most recently, KOA!
View More Photos:
Back to Ventura KOA…first off, as you can see in the pictures, our “Kottage” unit was a serious luxury rival with our previous cabin at the Santa Cruz KOA. In addition to a full bath with a shower, flat screen, and a sleeping loft for the children, we had fully equipped kitchen with a gas stove and refrigerator. My favorite feature: an overlook of the nearby creek and rolling hillside vineyards.
At the Ventura KOA, we also had the chance to test out their new zipline! Check out the Mapp children zip lining across camp! You can hear them before you see them. Video courtesy of Tom Huang
Like many other KOAs, the Ventura site is also equipped with the famous Jumping Pillow that my kids have come to love, rock wall climbing, peddle carts, and a giant checkerboard that delighted my little Billy to no end as he gave mom quite the challenge!
That night, after a full day of fun with my fellow bloggers and KOA staff, my kids and I fell fast asleep in comfort and warmth excited about the next day.
Sunday morning greeted us too soon (I really wanted to sleep in!) with a sizzle of a full pancake breakfast for the blogging brigade in Ventura Ranch, but actually some KOAs, including our recent Santa Cruz location have pancake breakfasts for guests during peak season.
The Bottom Line, KOAs:
- are an excellent and affordable way to car camp your way across the country because of their many locations and variety of accommodations
- all offer cleanliness and fun, to accommodate all outdoor comfort levels and ages
- can be a great basecamp to explore nearby National Parks and other attractions
Contact KOA for more information, and tell them Outdoor Afro sent you!
Outdoor Afro thanks KOA Ventura Ranch staff, Owner Scott Corey, JMPR Public Relations, and the KOA Marketing team for bringing us all together with style!
Why Work at REI? Maggie Ricketts Shares a Few Good Reasons!
Outdoor Afro’s Rue Mapp recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Maggie Ricketts, the Director of Talent Management & Recruiting of REI (Recreational Equipment Inc.) Their interview touched on aspects of REI’s employment opportunities, philosophy, and Maggie's personal role at the co-op.
Outdoor Afro is happy to kick off an ongoing spotlight of REI Career opportunities, starting with this interview with Maggie, to inspire Outdoor Afros to learn more about REI and ways to get involved.
Why did you join REI?
My husband was an REI member for years and he introduced me to the store when we moved to the Pacific NW. After working for another NW retailer, I learned about REI as employer when I attended a local chamber meeting. Their values and their mission attracted me. A friend who worked at the company made a connection, even though there were no roles at the time. I moved to Ohio, but was convinced to come back and have not looked back since - I’ve been here for 5 years.
What is your role at REI?
I lead Talent Management and Recruiting, where my team focuses on recruiting for roles in our distribution centers, call center, headquarters and retail management. We also provide support for new store openings. We also look internally to make sure there is a pipeline for career advancement, and that REI invests in the right people and programs to develop the next cadre of leaders. This is important as REI continues to grow.
Why was REI selected as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For?
We are very proud of our ongoing ranking on Fortune’s list. REI is all about the people, we care about the people, and this philosophy guides how REI operates. Being a co-op means REI takes that spirit into everything we do, and we take the long view. Our model is inspired by the desire to do the right thing versus what is most expedient. REI is not like many larger corporations, we are walking the talk with a sensibility around a higher purpose - not just about profitability. As staff, we have a shared passion for the outdoors and within this, we inspire, educate, and outfit. REI cares deeply about environmental education and making sure the outdoors is protected.
We also value a team-based culture, and create an environment where collaboration is important and we like to share the glory with other contributors with common values. Here, your voice is heard as an individual, and while this is a challenge as we grow, we keep it as part of our core values.
We know REI has retail stores all around the country – but what are some positions that you believe Outdoor Afro readers might not realize exist at REI?
People think of us as a retailer, and indeed we have store level roles that cover many areas. REI attracts a vast array of people to our retail division who are really passionate about the outdoors. However, what you may not know is that some REI members are retired and chose to work at REI because of their personal interests. We also have professionals such as doctors, teachers, and others with full-time jobs who enjoy working in retail because they get to engage with the community. They also can also benefit from our employee discounts (30% typically– and manufacturer incentives mean up to 70% off). We also have a robust corporate campus environment – from e-commerce, IT, Marketing, Merchandising, Private Brand Group, Finance, and HR. We also have roles in our outdoor adventure schools – a wide variety of roles!
What are one or two REI employment benefits that you think are outstanding?
REI cares deeply about our employees – and we offer part time employees healthcare, as well as keep insurance rates affordable. All employees are able to participate in our incentive plan. We offer an incredible tenure – which is very unusual for retail – and paid sabbatical after 15 years of service. REI also offers generous retirement and profit sharing – 5% contribution and up to 10% is added based on how well we perform as a company each year..
REI and Diversity?
We have a solid and enthusiastic vision for diversity, and think about its many facets including our customers, our employees and our partnerships. Just last year, we hired Laura Swapp, as our new Director of Diversity and Inclusion who is guiding our effort, and we are very excited for our future.
Click here for more information about jobs at REI!
Outdoor Afros in the Redwoods
Outdoor Afro Leadership Team (OALT) member Zoe Polk led her second outdoor event last weekend in Oakland, California's Redwood Regional Park - a unit of the East Bay Regional Park District. Each OALT member is committed to lead one trip per quarter and write a blog about it - here is Zoe's!
On a sunny, cloud free day, over 50 Outdoor Afros convened in Redwood Regional Park in Oakland, California. Since it is one of my favorite spots to hike and be in the greatness of nature, I couldn’t have been happier to share that experience with so many enthusiastic and interesting folks.
Following signs that said “Welcome Afros,” we assembled at the Anna Costa Picnic area in Redwood Bowl. As we did introductions, including names, hometowns and favorite activity, I was struck by the strong contingent we had from Minnesota and the diverse interests of the participants. Camping, white water rafting, skiing, fishing, and lawn chair lounging were among the activities enjoyed by members. Before we began the hike, I asked everybody to pay attention to the changing scenery, particularly my 3 favorite trees: Eucalyptus, Madrone and Coastal Redwood. I hoped that the smell of the Eucalyptus, the bright orange bark of the Madrone, and the overall majesty of the Redwoods would make outdoor afros return to this park as often as I do.
We also discussed the safety aspect of paying attention to your surroundings and keeping away from poison oak! And with that, we were off!
The hike was a little under a mile and a half and everyone was finished in 2 hours or less. It began with a most flat but bumpy path followed by a deep descent down the Madrone trail to the base of the redwoods. Hikers were encouraged to think about the history of the park, including the presence of grizzly bears long ago. I also shared the important role the redwood trees played in building and rebuilding the San Francisco Bay Area. And of course, we couldn’t leave out the beautiful ferns that joined with the trees to provide a beautiful lush setting.
Before we began the “Great Ascent,” we talked little about the gear that I wore, including a knee brace, a camelback, hiking boots and hiking sticks. With the help of these items, I am not limited by my personal handicaps and better enjoy outdoor activities.
Taking our time and pacing ourselves, hikers made their way up and back to the picnic area. While some Outdoor Afros sped to the top no sweat, many of us kept a slower pace, taking deep breaths and resting as needed. When the canopy of redwoods gave way and sunlight poured onto the trail, we knew we were at the top and ready for some BBQ.
If there’s one thing that all of us know how to do outdoors, its how to throw down on some barbecue and Saturday was no exception. While Stevie Wonder played in the background, many of us enjoyed fruit salads, steak, red velvet cake, plantains, and Otis’ deliciously marinated grilled chicken. To conclude the day, Kristi Davis, Director of California Wilderness Coalition made an emotional presentation about her deep connection and love for the outdoors. She encouraged everyone to be their own grassroots activist to protect California’s natural spaces.
The hike was a success on many levels. I look forward to seeing everyone again soon at the next Outdoor Afro event!
Click for more photos!
Thanks KEEN shoes and REI for leader gear and logistical support of our team! Also thanks to Golden Gate Audubon Society for providing local birding materials!
Is Your Hair Keeping You Out of the River?
We sure hope not!
Earlier this year, I was so excited to present in Atlanta for Keeping it Wild to share how outdoor organizations might be more relevant through meaningful partnerships. I appreciated the candor and honesty of the audience, many of whom took the time to share their successes and challenges when working with organizations and communities to connect more people, especially black people, to the outdoors.
Take this short quiz to share what rivers and waterways mean to you: Click to Enter
Check out how one mother connects her family to the river:
After a beat of silence in the room, I began to share how our hair texture changes when wet and how it often requires a lot of expense and time to restore hair to preferred styles, hence the reluctance to get our hair wet recreationally. I also added that attitudes were changing, as more black women are choosing natural styles to free themselves of the high maintenance often associated with straightening and other styling techniques.
Gwyneth was visibly relieved. Finally, she was aware of one of the best known facts about black women, though rarely discussed outside of our community. And our conversation inspired her. When I returned home from Atlanta, Gwyneth contacted me and we discussed strategies for how we might work together to get more people, and especially black women engaged with rivers and lakes for fun, health, and for future conservation.
So over the next few months Outdoor Afro and the Georgia Rivers Network have decided to collaborate to share how more African-Americans can connect and enjoy their local rivers and waterways.
We will feature examples of African American historical and current participation along waterways, and finally share ideas and resources where people can get connected to programs and other resources.
It is our hope we can help empower people and organizations with the information they need to choose rivers and waterways as a part of a relevant connection to nature and conservation.
To help inform our work, please take this quick survey for a chance to win this Nature Pot Honey Bee candle! Click to Enter
This blog series is sponsored by the Georgia River Network
African American History Hike at Harper's Ferry National Park
Sponsored by The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), in partnership with the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (HFNHP)
Saturday, June 2nd, 2012 - 10:30 am to 2:00 pm
The event will showcase some of the rich history that occurred along the Harpers Ferry section of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.)
A moderate 1-mile guided hike will begin at ATC’s Visitor Center and end by following the Appalachian Trail downhill past numerous scenic spots and historic structures. At each historic site, a Harpers Ferry Park ranger will give an interpretive presentation about its significance. Participants will learn about African American history and will be given the rare opportunity to view the inside the Curtis Freewill Baptist Church and other rarely open sites to the public.
At the end of the hike, participants will be have the opportunity to hear a presentation from Marcia Fairweather about her 15-year section-hike of the A.T. Ms. Fairweather is also a board member of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the first African-American to serve in this role.
This hike is not recommended for children under 8 years old. Parental supervision required.
Please RSVP by June 1st
Hike Difficulty: Moderate; the hike is 1 mile long and short sections cover uneven terrain and rocks, as well as steep steps.
EVENT OVERVIEW:
When: Saturday, June 2, 2012 – 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Where: Appalachian Trail Conservancy
799 Washington Street, Harpers Ferry, WV
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
10:30 a.m. – Orientation
11:00 a.m. – African American History Hike:
Begin at ATC’s Visitor Center –End in historic Lower Town Harpers Ferry.
1:00 p.m. – Lunch: Lunch will be provided for hike participants
1:30 p.m. – “Marcia’s Appalachian Trail Journey”: After lunch, Marcia Fairweather, who completed a section hike of the entire A.T. in 2008, will show a short video about her experience. Both lunch and the presentation will be held in the Allies for Freedom room on the second floor of the HFNHP’s John Brown Museum in historic Lower Town Harpers Ferry.
Click to download the flyer!
National Kids to Parks Day - May 19th!
Join Outdoor Afro in getting excited about the second annual National Kids to Parks Day May 19th, 2012! What a great opportunity to celebrate nature with kids, families, and fellow outdoor people!
The National Park Trust and our mascot Buddy Bison wants everyone to have an American park experience. We are inviting every family in America to visit a national, state or local park and play outdoors on May 19, 2012! As Buddy Bison says, “Explore outdoors, the parks are yours!”
Last year, nearly 200 mayors coast to coast signed official proclamations and many hosted events in their community parks to celebrate the day. In addition, more than 15,300 families participated.
The vision is simply to remind adults to take a child in their lives to a park – where they can hike a trail, visit a national historic site, or even canoe on a river. American adults live busy and pressure-filled lives – why not give them a reason to take the time to connect a child with an American treasure – a park?
As of this week 45,000 people registered for the event, 45 states participating, plus nearly 200 mayors and the Governors of WV and CO who have signed official proclamations!
