Outdoor Afro's signature shirts restock with Oaklandish
Wear it on the streets of America. Watch the comments, curiosities, and questions that follow. “We recognized early our community loves our logo, and wants to represent it loud and proud,” said Outdoor Afro Founder and CEO Rue Mapp. “Having a merch store is a fun and accessible way for our community to continue to support our charitable work. Working with Oaklandish in the past, we’re even more excited to now embark on this new chapter of collaboration.”
Outdoor Afro worked with the longtime community partner to open a new digital store for supporters to shirt shop the collection. The national not-for-profit organization is easily identified within the outdoor industry because of its logo – an afro silhouette with a tree sprouting from the cultural throwback hairstyle. Recently rebranding its .com site to now outdoorafro.org, Outdoor Afro reintroduces its sought-after shirts: short sleeve, long sleeve, and hoodie varieties. Just in time for the holidays.
Mapp considers Oaklandish as the premiere Oakland purveyor of iconic design that beautifully represents Outdoor Afro’s hometown and headquarters location. “Rue herself is a force of nature,” said Angela Tsay, Oaklandish CEO, “and has done so much to raise Oakland’s profile on the national scene while staying true to her passion and the mission goals of Outdoor Afro. We’re so proud of everything she has accomplished and are proud to work with her in growing the brand.” In its now 13th year, Outdoor Afro and the iconic nature emblem continue to speak to Black joy, healing, and the network’s mission: celebrate and inspire Black connections and leadership in nature.
The afro logo has literally traveled from local neighborhoods and nationwide conferences. To The White House and celebrity events. To a cruise across international waters with Mapp in Antarctica during February 2022. Outdoor Afro also trains a select group of volunteer leaders who guide more than 1,000 local activities across the United States annually. After each activity, volunteers and community participants gather with the network’s signature logo banner to capture that memory in nature. Now that Outdoor Afro reaches more than 60,000 people nationwide, its logo stays on touring circuit rotation.
Purchasing the organization’s newest short-sleeve tee, long-sleeve tee, or hoodie through Oaklandish guarantees a comfy reminder of why Mapp established the now nature movement for Black people and Black communities. “Our mission at Oaklandish is to spread ‘local love’ by way of our civic pride tees and accessories,” said Theresa Hartwell, marketing and account manager. “Oaklandish is honored to partner with Outdoor Afro, and share the impactful work they do to uplift and reconnect Black people to the outdoors.”
ABOUT OUTDOOR AFRO: Outdoor Afro is a national not-for-profit organization that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. What started as a kitchen table blog by Founder and CEO Rue Mapp in 2009 has since grown into a cutting-edge nationwide network with 100-plus volunteer leaders in 60 cities with network participation reaching 60,000 people. Outdoor Afro reconnects Black people with the outdoors through outdoor education, recreation, and conservation. Follow @outdoorafro on social for more nature stories.
5 Stanley cookware hacks for holiday camping
Stanley products have literally traveled on oodles of American outdoor adventures for more than 100 years now. The brand has powered daily coffee breaks. Assisted meal prep days in nature. Provided the right amount of storage gear for food and beverages (on and off the road). With each passing year, Stanley continues to innovate, bringing timeless and modern solutions for outdoor exploration to backyard chill sessions.
Outdoor Afro champions brands like Stanley for helping to build more sustainable communities through modern, reusable products. Ways Outdoor Afro volunteer leaders, network participants, the organization’s staff, and even you can maximize time outside this holiday season by incorporating these multipurpose Stanley products:
TRY COOK SETS IN NEW SETTINGS: Typically food preparation is an indoor activity. With Stanley’s Adventure Full Kitchen Base Camp Cook Set, it’s easier to move cooking experiences outside. This best-selling set features a three-ply frying pan, stainless-steel pot, cutting board, spatula, serving spoon, plates, and bowls. This collection includes the essentials to transport kitchen conveniences pretty much anywhere – the front yard, backyard, campsites, or RVs. The set’s compact design allows hassle-free packing and unloading to comfortably and confidently cook away from the traditional kitchen.
INVEST IN MULTI-USE BACKYARD COOKWARE: Outdoor Afro volunteer leader, Tarik Moore, is a backpacker, car camper, and backyard camping expert. He loves the “ease” of how his family works together to create original fun at home. “Backyard camping is really convenient,” said Moore, “allowing our kids to use their imagination and help with preparing snacks like s’mores.” In between games and conversation, Moore often relies on Stanley’s Adventure Cook Set For Four to accommodate appetites. Ideal for heating soups and brewing coffee, this 11-piece set includes a 2.5L pot, serving utensil, bowls, and sporks for four.
VENTURE OUT IN CULINARY CREATIONS: Another Outdoor Afro volunteer leader who appreciates a camping quest with family and friends is Robin Roberts. “I revisited camping four years ago,” she said. “I took my kids to The Mighty 5 and have been camping ever since.” An outdoor chef in her own right, Roberts puts Stanley products to the test for network camping trips. Cookware she can always make great use of: the Adventure Even-Heat Pot Set. This durable collection comes with a 1.9-quart saucepan, collapsible cutting board, silicone trivet, and serving spoon to prep, serve, and delight. Roberts’ signature camping dish: her chili and cornbread. Two syllables: De-lish! With the help of this lightweight, camp-friendly set, her favorite camping meal has become a beloved tradition, especially with her kids. “We make it on the stove and finish on the campfire,” said Roberts. “They love it every time, and I must make it every time we camp.”
SAVOR NEWER COFFEE-LOVER SIPS: Freshly brewed. Hot. Morning coffee. Yes, please! The Perfect-Brew Pour Over Set by Stanley is a quick-and-easy fix to getting up and at ’em in nature. This coffee system helps you relive those kitchen table sunrise seconds with each sip. Paper filters not required, the stainless-steel setup contains a reusable filter paired with Stanley’s Classic Legendary Camp Mug. This fun-size mug keeps coffee heated by way of its double-wall vacuum insulation. The mug’s press-fit Tritan™ lid also helps prevent spills or splashes in the car or by the campfire.
CRAFT SIGNATURE COFFEES FOR TRAVELING CREWS: Complement early-morning breakfast among loved ones with the Stay Hot French Press. This compact coffee solution makes brewing specific types of coffee during group camping adventures easier to achieve in the outdoors. A mesh filter holds the grinds in place, resulting in a stronger, flavorful cup of coffee. Plus, its double-wall vacuum insulation keeps everything hot. The ergonomic handle ensures pouring is a mess-free process. The press guarantees coffee stays hot for four hours and iced for 24 hours.
ABOUT OUTDOOR AFRO: Outdoor Afro is a national not-for-profit organization that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. What started as a kitchen table blog by Founder and CEO Rue Mapp in 2009 has since grown into a cutting-edge nationwide network with 100-plus volunteer leaders in 60 cities. “Where Black people and nature meet,” Outdoor Afro reconnects Black people with the outdoors through outdoor education, recreation, and conservation. Follow us @outdoorafro on social.
ABOUT STANLEY: The Stanley brand has a rich 100-plus year history of forever changing the way hot drinks are consumed. Stanley fused vacuum insulation and the strength of steel in one portable bottle in 1913, inventing the all-steel vacuum bottle we know and love today. In the century since, this vacuum bottle has evolved from concept to icon, and has become an essential part of workdays, road trips, and outdoor adventures. In addition to drinkware, Stanley also creates food storage, camp cookware, coolers and jugs.
5 ways to support Outdoor Afro starting GivingTuesday
November signals a time to restock personal nature spaces and refocus future ambitions as the winter months and the new year approaches. The month also gravitates to giving. Following Thanksgiving is GivingTuesday held Nov. 29, 2022. The global generosity movement will kick off end-of-year giving for national not-for-profit organization Outdoor Afro to close out the year.
“Because of our supporters, we get to be first responders to engage and lift up local connections in nature around the country,” said Rue Mapp, founder and CEO of Outdoor Afro. “These contributions also allow us to help more people take better care of our community and planet joyously while creating unforgettable, equitable fun and access to Black joy and healing in nature.” Year-round programs and projects supporters and the general public may not know their contributions actually help uplift within the network and throughout the United States:
OUTDOOR AFRO LEADERSHIP TRAINING: This annual training guides the newest class of volunteer leaders through best practices for navigating and leading in nature. Nicknamed “OALT,” the weekend experience held in April equips a select group of volunteers from across the country with the essential outdoor skills needed to return to their hometowns and guide their local communities outside sustainably and safely. To date, Outdoor Afro includes more than 100 volunteer leaders who represent the network’s four regions: Northeast, Midwest, South, and West.
LOCAL ACTIVITIES: Once OALT completes, volunteer leaders develop, host, and lead local activities in their local to regional communities. Activities can cover anything from neighborhood historical walks and cultural park bird watching to biking, hiking, gardening, skiing, fishing, swimming, geocaching, nature journaling, and kayaking. Volunteers often gauge and offer activities that any age group would enjoy pursuing in nature. Volunteers hold more than 1,200 in-person and online events each year.
PADDLE CAMP: Held in August each year, this seven-day summer camp introduces volunteer leaders (10 canoers and 10 kayakers) to effective paddling techniques, safety on the water, and wilderness first aid training to apply through their individual networks. In collaboration with boating and fishing equipment brand Northwest River Supplies, the camp helps strengthen volunteers’ canoeing and kayaking knowledge, and navigation of various waterways. Paddle Camp also prepares volunteers for certification through the American Canoe Association. Outdoor Afro now includes 26 volunteer leaders who are certified canoe or kayak instructors.
MAKING WAVES: The program formed in response to the alarming number of Black children who drown today tied to the historic prohibition of Black access to public swimming pools and beaches. Since 2019, Outdoor Afro’s goal has been to teach every Black child and their caregiver in its sphere of influence learn how to swim. Currently, the network provides Swimmerships™ (swim lesson scholarships). At 357 Swimmerships™ completed, the program continues to grow support from brands like global footwear KEEN to bring awareness and stronger connections to water.
JUNETEENTH: Because media created this flawed narrative of Juneteenth being a “celebration” to the end of U.S. slavery, Outdoor Afro educates the public about the reality of the situation. June 19, 1865, is the date when 250,000 enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas, were told they were free 2.5 years after the Emancipation Proclamation (signed Jan. 1, 1863) went into effect. The network corrects this oftentimes “celebratory” story by rephrasing the day as a “commemoration.” To honor those who were denied 2.5 years of freedom, Outdoor Afro encourages partners, communities, and networks to spend 2.5 hours in nature, reflecting on what freedom means to them.
DONATE TO THESE PROGRAMS TODAY
ABOUT OUTDOOR AFRO: Outdoor Afro is a national not-for-profit organization that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. What started as a kitchen table blog by Founder and CEO Rue Mapp in 2009 has since grown into a cutting-edge nationwide network with 100-plus volunteer leaders in 60 cities. “Where Black people and nature meet,” Outdoor Afro reconnects Black people with the outdoors through outdoor education, recreation, and conservation. Follow us @outdoorafro on social.
How Outdoor Afro got much-needed 'Sun Outdoors' 2022
State-of-the-art nature experiences are what Sun Outdoors brings to the picnic table for staycations, vacations, and even “bae”cations. A leader in the outdoor hospitality world, Sun Outdoor offers more than 175 campgrounds and resorts across the United States and Canada. During Outdoor Afro’s annual Outdoor Afro Leadership Training (OALT) held in Granby, Colorado, in April 2022, network staff and volunteer leaders received a rare opportunity to spend three days at Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains. Waking up each morning to movie-like sunrises, TikTok-worthy trails, snow capped mountain views, and National Geographic wildlife.
Like OALT 2022, this new partnership with Sun Outdoors shared with Outdoor Afro the luxury RV and glamping possibilities. What transformative moments can look like for local networks to recreate outdoor recreation across the network’s four regions: Northeast, Midwest, South, and West. The leadership training alone showed the network how Sun Outdoors locations can redesign into spaces for panel discussions, hands-on workshops, nature exploration activities, and places of rest and healing. What distinguished Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains from previous network training sites: its ample accommodations to manage extreme weather.
The site’s cozy vacation rentals and tent options allowed Outdoor Afro volunteer leaders to practice their wilderness survival skills while ensuring safety under snow storm conditions. This particular location featured prairie schooners and Airstream trailers equipped with modern conveniences for beginner to veteran outdoor enthusiasts. Additional outdoor housing choices the network can explore on future training trips. And do know Rocky Mountains is just one of many interpretations of what Sun Outdoors has to offer in outdoor travel fun. Other destinations for campers, glampers, and those somewhere in between:
Sun Outdoors Coos Bay in Coos Bay, Oregon, comes with never-want-to-leave-here outlooks of the Pacific Ocean. Literally camp by the ocean or cozy up in a Seaside Shanty vacation rental. And for travelers wanting more vacation rental space, Oceanside includes premium cottages to still capture the sights and sounds of the waypoint. Sightseers will appreciate resort amenities such as nearby state parks, wineries, and museums.
Sun Outdoors Myrtle Beach in Conway, South Carolina, is a Southern region camper's delight. This property sits near Atlantic Coast vacay community Myrtle Beach, which means instant access to the area’s water park, miniature golf course, low country dining, a video game plaza, and cabana-vibe poolside leisure time. Southern charm meets campsite vistas, this location speaks to cottage life fused with Deep South customs and old-fashioned fun.
Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay lives in Chula Vista, California – dubbed “The Lemon Capital” for its sundry of citrus trees. It’s also laden with nature parks and beaches. Therefore, San Diego Bay is all about creating bayfront memories in nature. This fairly new resort in Southern California furnishes RV sites and some of the coziest, open-air cottage rentals. Fresh Mexican and SoCal cuisine are just steps away. To deep dive into local marine life, the Living Coast Discovery Center and waterfront park are in the vicinity as well.
El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara County, California, holds the birthplace title to "glamping." That said, El Capitan is the nature station to indulge outdoor living in the state's central coast. Post up in cedar cabins, safari tents, or adventure yurts surrounded by historic oak and sycamore trees. Soak in the sun on top of rippling mountains that overlook the Pacific Ocean. More activities to check off: dining, wine tasting, hiking, llama farm touring, swimming, and listening to live concert music.
Sun Outdoors Frontier Town revisits the Old West from Berlin, Maryland. Snuggled on the scenic shores of inland waterway Sinepuxent Bay, the resort is lined with rustic tents and covered wagons. The Mid-Atlantic scene replicates an 1880s country Western town. Once settled into the RV site, explore farm-inspired shops, cowhand saloons, and iconic American fare.
ABOUT OUTDOOR AFRO: Outdoor Afro is a national not-for-profit organization that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. What started as a kitchen table blog by Founder and CEO Rue Mapp in 2009 has since grown into a cutting-edge nationwide network with 100-plus volunteer leaders in 60 cities. “Where Black people and nature meet,” Outdoor Afro reconnects Black people with the outdoors through outdoor education, recreation, and conservation. Follow us @outdoorafro on social.
ABOUT SUN OUTDOORS: Sun Outdoors is a leader in outdoor hospitality and committed to its mission of offering guests exceptional and transformative outdoor experiences. With over 175 locations across the U.S. and Ontario, Canada, Sun Outdoors offers guests several ways to stay: from RV sites to vacation rentals, from tent camping to glamping, whether they stay for a weekend, season or longer. Visit sunoutdoors.com to learn more. Sun Outdoors is a division of Sun Communities Inc., a publicly traded company which, as of September 30, 2021, owns, operates and has an interest in 584 developed manufactured home, RV and marina properties comprising over 155,900 developed sites and nearly 44,900 wet slips and dry storage spaces in 38 states, Canada and Puerto Rico. Sun Communities is a fully integrated real estate investment trust (REIT) listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol: SUI. suncommunities.com.
Why Smartwool + Outdoor Afro are a model partnership pair
Network partner Smartwool designs and produces Merino wool socks and accessories to help fuel a life lived outside. But its mission doesn’t stop there. From inclusivity and diversity to sustainability and advocacy, Smartwool uses its brand values to navigate the outdoor industry, curating products and a community to create a more accessible outdoors for everyone.
Recently, Outdoor Afro collaborated with Smartwool on a second hiking sock for the network's 2022 Juneteenth commemoration — designed by volunteer leader and artist Leandra Taylor to represent Black joy, healing, and unity in nature. The Outdoor Afro Hike Light Cushion Print Crew Socks became a colorful option for outdoor enthusiasts to fashion and wear while exploring their backyard versions of land, water, and wildlife. “I wanted to be intentional about what this sock represents,” said Taylor. “It’s universal. Different versions of Blackness to identify with because we’re not a monolith – even in our outdoor experiences.”
Taylor also created Outdoor Afro’s 2020 “Slice of Nature” socks to illustrate the network’s love for the outdoors despite entering COVID times. That Smartwool performance hike sock emphasized joy and community in the outdoors while standing together to protect local areas and wild places – even while quarantining. “The new print crew sock involved more than the patterns I typically create,” Taylor said. “The faces flow and wrap around the foot, showing every angle of our Black beauty.”
To get more people outside, Smartwool has focused on creating new fit blocks so communities can experience the comfort and natural performance of Merino wool. Fall 2022, it's proud to release the new unisex collection for everyday wear and women’s plus sizes in fan-favorite classic thermal base layer. Just the start to the brand's journey, offering more sizes and fit options. Natural fiber Merinio wool dominates Smartwool’s catalogue because of the inherent temperature control, sweat management, and odor resistance.
When additional materials are needed for durability and quicker dry times, Smartwool uses recycled materials whenever possible. And that’s not the only way our partner is putting the planet first. Smartwool launched the Second Cut™ Project on Earth Day 2021 — the outdoor industry’s first sock recycling platform. To date, Smartwool has collected 525,000-plus socks and diverted more than 42,000 pounds of usable materials from landfills to use in future products.
The Second Cut™ Project is a major step toward Smartwool's goal of 100 percent of its products designed for circularity. With its “go far. feel good.™” motto, the sock expert doesn’t care who you are. As long as you’re getting out that door. And Outdoor Afro knows personally the brand is dedicated to supporting communities every step of the way. For years now, Smartwool has helped Outdoor Afro amplify and celebrate Black voices in nature.
ABOUT OUTDOOR AFRO: Outdoor Afro is a national not-for-profit organization that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. What started as a kitchen table blog by Founder and CEO Rue Mapp in 2009 has since grown into a cutting-edge nationwide network with 100-plus volunteer leaders in 60 cities with network participation reaching 60,000 people. Outdoor Afro reconnects Black people with the outdoors through outdoor education, recreation, and conservation. Follow Outdoor Afro at outdoorafro.org and @outdoorafro today.
ABOUT SMARTWOOL: Based in Denver, Colorado, Smartwool® is a sock and apparel brand whose products are designed to get the most out of the inherent benefits of Merino wool to bring comfort, confidence, and community to a life lived outside. For information on the full range of Smartwool® products or to find a dealer near you, please visit Smartwool.com. Smartwool, a division of VF Outdoor, LLC, is a brand of VF Corporation.
National not-for-profit Outdoor Afro seeks executive director
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA – Outdoor Afro seeks an operational executive director to support the national network’s developing programs and growing team. “In our ‘Year of Operations,’ Outdoor Afro is searching for a passionate and strategic executive leader who is also a proven and savvy organizational manager,” said Outdoor Afro Founder and CEO Rue Mapp. “I look forward to being a thought partner with this person and helping support the sustainable growth trajectory of our organization.”
This hire is a new position for the national organization and network. Outdoor Afro started as a social enterprise for Mapp in 2009. She incorporated Outdoor Afro in 2015 as a 501(c)(3) and has led the organization since as its CEO. The organization has grown from a one-woman blog and three founding board members to 12 full-time staff and a 13-member Board of Directors. Its operating budget has grown from a modest $110,000 in revenue in 2015 to now more than $2.5 million – largely from foundations, individuals, and corporate partner support.
The executive director will report to the board and serve as communications liaison between the board and staff. This new role will direct Outdoor Afro’s strategic growth efforts and operational efficiency to meet the moment of rapid growth for the organization. In partnership with Mapp, key board members, and staff, the executive director will function as the chief architect to oversee the strategic implementation of best-in-class, not-for-profit operations.
The selected candidate will construct and manage the necessary infrastructure to enable Outdoor Afro’s growth of its national programs and participation network around the United States. As founder, Mapp will remain Outdoor Afro’s CEO and spokeswoman. “After reviewing the position specifications,” said Mapp, “anyone is welcome to apply who feels they meet the qualifications for this important and compelling leadership opportunity.” Interested candidates can submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected], speaking to qualifications per the position specifications here.
*Pictured above is Outdoor Afro Founder and CEO Rue Mapp. Photo by Tiffanie Page.
ABOUT OUTDOOR AFRO: Outdoor Afro is a national not-for-profit organization that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. What started as a kitchen table blog by Founder and CEO Rue Mapp in 2009 has since grown into a cutting-edge nationwide network with 100-plus volunteer leaders in 60 cities with network participation reaching 60,000 people. Outdoor Afro reconnects Black people with the outdoors through outdoor education, recreation, and conservation. Follow Outdoor Afro at outdoorafro.org and @outdoorafro today.
Outdoor Afro fundraiser reunites for 'Homecoming'
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA – National not-for-profit Outdoor Afro brings back its annual fundraising event in the physical. Glamp Out 2022 takes place Friday, Oct. 14, and is fittingly themed “Homecoming.” “After two-years of having to do virtual events because of the pandemic, we are coming home in community with one another for our first in-person event since 2019,” said Rue Mapp, Founder and CEO of Outdoor Afro. “This is not your dad’s conservation gala, either.”
The Academy Awards-inspired occasion is held at Scott’s Jack London Square this year from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with the goal of raising more than $300,000 to support the organization’s year-long programs. Hosted by former Oakland broadcaster Dana King and featuring Golden State Warriors "Hypeman Auctioneer" Franco Finn for 2022, the occasion welcomes the outdoor community into an elegant evening like no other, said Mapp. Outdoor industry leaders, elected officials, celebrities, and cultural champions join to support the network’s mission: celebrate and inspire Black connections and leadership in nature.
Glamp Out is also an opportunity for the national nature-based community as a whole to exercise philanthropy: “Too often, we think about Black people in philanthropic and not-for-profit organizations as just the recipients or beneficiaries of program efforts,” Mapp said, “but we also are the ones giving and empowering organizations like Outdoor Afro to be in service of our community.”
The fundraiser not only deliberately strengthens the community and celebrates Outdoor Afro’s wins in the outdoors. It shares hope and encouragement to continue to change the narrative of who leads in nature while nurturing Black philanthropic efforts. Gala highlights for 2022 will include: TURFinc dance culture entertainment; Youth Speaks artists and educators; Oakland High School jazz band trio; “Partner of the Year” CLIF BAR®; “Lifetime Achievement” award recipient the late Dr. Nina S. Roberts; and “Leader of the Year” Stephen Scott.
Funds raised throughout the night will go toward outdoor education for Outdoor Afro’s volunteer leaders like Stephen. The network selects and trains volunteer leaders annually through Outdoor Afro Leadership Training to guide local communities in outdoor activities safely and sustainably. What started as a dozen volunteer outdoor enthusiasts in 2012 is now more than 100 volunteer leaders who lead neighborhood adventures like biking, hiking, gardening, kayaking, and ice climbing across the United States.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES HERE
Glamp Out also supports Outdoor Afro’s Making Waves program. The swim program offers “Swimmerships™” or swim lesson scholarships during the summer months. Outdoor Afro launched Making Waves in 2019 to address the alarming number of Black children who drown today tied to the historic prohibition of Black access to beaches and public swimming pools.
“We know that if a child doesn’t know how to swim, they likely aren’t going to care about plastic in the ocean,” Mapp said. “The planet needs us to be in relationship with water. For Outdoor Afro, it’s all about relationships. Glamp Out is a fantastic way to celebrate those relationships while also helping to support the work that has a life-saving impact in our community.”
ABOUT OUTDOOR AFRO: Outdoor Afro is a national not-for-profit organization that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. What started as a kitchen table blog by Founder and CEO Rue Mapp in 2009 has since grown into a cutting-edge nationwide network with 100-plus volunteer leaders in 60 cities with network participation reaching 60,000 people. Outdoor Afro reconnects Black people with the outdoors through outdoor education, recreation, and conservation. Follow Outdoor Afro at outdoorafro.org and @outdoorafro today.
Nature Champs: CLIF® Athlete Venus Williams, Outdoor Afro
Consider Virginia Key Beach as the response to white-only swimming pools and water recreation. In the middle of the 20th century, this Miami vacation destination for Black people granted access to boating, fishing, surfing, swimming, and beachside lounging. A way of life for generations of Black nature enthusiasts and Black wealth to thrive – even while segregation tormented the country. Outdoor Afro revisited this historical landmark summer 2022 with partner CLIF BAR® and CLIF® Athlete Venus Williams to reflect on Black joy and healing in nature-rich places.
“What an honor to not only share the day with Venus but with our Founder and CEO Rue Mapp,” said Outdoor Afro volunteer leader Sierra Taliaferro with binoculars ready. “I wanted to do my best to provide a memorable experience in my backyard of Miami." Joined by fellow volunteer leader Michele Nedrick, Taliaferro led Outdoor Afro community participants, Mapp, and the tennis star through the beach’s nature trails and cultural history. Taliaferro helped the group identify native flora and fauna in between genuine conversations to learn more about each other.
A Miami transplant, Taliaferro spends most weekends exploring area routes. Like the Outdoor Afro activities she hosts monthly, this partnership experience allowed both Taliaferro and Nedrick to introduce new CLIF BAR® and Outdoor Afro staff to local stories and species of the beach. Decades of it. “Virginia Key Beach is not only historically Black,” Taliaferro said, “but it’s monumental to our sometimes forgotten history.” The recreational site became a cherished safe space in the 1940s onward for Black beachgoers of the states to Black immigrants of South America, Cuba, and various Caribbean islands.
It wasn’t until 1982 that the city of Miami closed the beach because of “rising maintenance costs.” After a decades-long fight by the Virginia Key Beach Civil Rights Task Force, the beach landed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. It reopened to the public in February 2008. An ideal spot for Nedrick and Taliaferro to host Outdoor Afro network activities yearlong that naturally strengthen the neighborhood’s connection to its land, water, and wildlife. In rhythm with typical network hikes, Nedrick and Taliaferro started the day with Outdoor Afro’s signature opening circle of introductions. Then, their educational and transformative tour meandered through sandy tracks and prickly-ash plants.
Occasionally, migrating birds and zebra longwing butterflies fluttered by the group as insect sounds amplified the ambience of the tropical wilderness experience. A fervent birder, Taliaferro often used her “field glasses” to identify native feathered friends for the day’s company. Since the beach is right on the coast, water birds were the easiest to pinpoint: white ibises, double-crested cormorants, and black-crowned night herons. “I often emphasize to beginner birders that birding is unconventional,” said Taliaferro. “You literally can do it anywhere. Even from your backyard.”
What led to this moment of Outdoor Afro volunteer leaders – sharing their expertise about this place of purpose for Black people – and CLIF BAR® goes back nearly a decade ago. CLIF BAR® and Outdoor Afro have been partners since the network became a national not-for-profit organization in 2015. Continuing to grow the partnership, CLIF BAR® created CLIF CORPS. This initiative is CLIF’s employee-led community service program where CLIF® Athletes donate time and resources to support nonprofits that make the spaces they live and play in more accessible and inclusive.
Williams serves as a CLIF® Athlete and has been a fan of Outdoor Afro for some time now. The perfect recipe to have a Black joy (and Black history) moment in nature: “I am honored to be part of this new chapter of CLIF CORPS and to support Outdoor Afro’s work to show greater representation in the outdoor community,” said Williams. “Together we will make a meaningful impact to reconnect Black communities with the outdoors and sports through education, recreation, and conservation.” The CLIF CORPS partnership features a series of ongoing giving and service amplifications with community groups like the Women’s Sports Foundation and National Parks Service. The goal is to provide opportunities for people across the United States to participate in activities otherwise deemed inaccessible or unwelcoming for social, emotional, or economic reasons.
Throughout this year, Outdoor Afro volunteer leaders will guide CLIF-supported outdoor experiences across its four regions: Midwest, Northeast, South, and West. Activities range from biking, kayaking, and hiking. "A recent study led by Penn State found that 1 in 5 Americans have taken on a new outdoor hobby since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many Americans are unable to experience these benefits due to inequities in access to the outdoors and sports,” said Jodi Olson, Vice President of Brands at CLIF BAR®. “That’s why we are collaborating with Venus Williams and Outdoor Afro, two of our long-time partners, to enact change and break down systemic barriers, creating more diverse and inclusive activities for our communities.”
Williams and Outdoor Afro took a beach walk. A few community participants showed off their driftwood tightroping abilities. When everyone made their way back to the initial opening circle location, the space created a new appreciation for Black contributions that developed the beach. The seaside stroll reinforced the everyday work Outdoor Afro does to celebrate and inspire Black connections and leadership in nature. Taliaferro wrapped up the evening by sharing that “nature allows us to see not only the surrounding beauty, but also the beauty in ourselves. Nature is truly a reflection of us.”
Outdoor Afro x Smartwool launch second hiking sock
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA – Restock your sock collection with a new, comfy styling option co-created by national not-for-profit Outdoor Afro and global sock and apparel brand Smartwool: the Outdoor Afro Hike Light Cushion Print Crew Socks. Launched July 2022 and designed by Outdoor Afro volunteer leader and artist Leandra Taylor, this colorful print speaks to Black joy, healing, and unity in nature.
On the heels of Outdoor Afro’s second annual Juneteenth commemoration, “I wanted to be intentional about what this sock represents,” said Taylor. “It’s universal. Different versions of Blackness to identify with because we’re not a monolith – even in our outdoor experiences.” Within a matter of weeks, Taylor’s creative process of scribbling, coloring, and sketching morphed into a collage of skin tones.
The Merino wool socks also feature a Virtually Seamless™ Toe to prevent chafing; 4 Degree™ Elite Fit System to stop bunching, blisters, or sock slippage; Indestructawool™ for unmatched durability; and mesh venting for maximum breathability and moisture management. The joint project marks the second time the two brands have partnered on a sock product.
Taylor also created Outdoor Afro’s 2020 “Slice of Nature” socks to illustrate the network’s love for the outdoors despite entering COVID times. That performance hike sock emphasized joy and community in the outdoors while standing together to protect local areas and wild places – even while quarantining. “This new sock involved more than the patterns I typically create,” Taylor said. “The faces flow and wrap around the foot, showing every angle of our Black beauty.”
ABOUT OUTDOOR AFRO: Outdoor Afro is a national not-for-profit organization that celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. What started as a kitchen table blog by Founder and CEO Rue Mapp in 2009 has since grown into a cutting-edge nationwide network with 100-plus volunteer leaders in 60 cities with network participation reaching 60,000 people. Outdoor Afro reconnects Black people with the outdoors through outdoor education, recreation, and conservation. Follow Outdoor Afro at outdoorafro.org and @outdoorafro today.
ABOUT SMARTWOOL: Based in Denver, Colorado, Smartwool® is a sock and apparel brand whose products are designed to get the most out of the inherent benefits of Merino wool to bring comfort, confidence, and community to a life lived outside. For information on the full range of Smartwool® products or to find a dealer near you, please visit Smartwool.com. Smartwool, a division of VF Outdoor, LLC, is a brand of VF Corporation.
7 Bay Area Ridge Trail routes to summer trip plan
Planning a trip to the Bay Area with Outdoor Afro is a guaranteed outdoor adventure. Volunteer leaders guide some of the most enriching events to establish new relationships with natural West Coast wonders. Mountain hikes. Valley bike rides. Beach games. Public land nature journaling. You name it, volunteers have probably guided it. So here’s another adventure to anticipate exploring with the network: the Bay Area Ridge Trail.
Spanning 400 miles, this multicity network of trails offers everything from camping to flower spotting. It winds through San Francisco, Marin, Oakland, Napa, Sonoma, San Jose, the Peninsula, Berkeley, and Fremont. Multi-use pathways meander between the area's North and South Bay. The idea to develop such a comprehensive trail spawned from a group of outdoor enthusiasts who envisioned an extended option for Bay Area residents, providing epic routes for those itching to discover more of nature from their backyards.
The trail opened in 1989. As of November 2021, 400 miles have been dedicated for public recreational use with another 150 miles opening in the coming years for the same purpose. Once the full 550 miles complete, residents and tourists will have continuous access to more than 75 parks and open spaces. Visitors can go by foot and even horseback through some of the Bay Area’s most iconic and tranquil naturescapes and backdrops. Of course, mapping out such a massive route can become challenging, however the trail’s website offers an easy-to-use system — the Ridge Trail Circumnavigation.
Plan everything from campsite locations and multi-day itineraries to determining the closest parking lots and best locations for a scenic picnic with gal (or guy) pals. Although there are still some unfinished parts to the trail, adventurers can take advantage of the trail’s two long, uninterrupted stretches that are currently open. On the Western Ridge: an 80-mile stretch from Northern Marin to Highway 92. On the Eastern Ridge: a 43-mile stretch from El Sobrante to Union City. View the full database of trail maps to organize summer trips. Fun options for future Outdoor Afro Meetups the network is considering as well. So include these starter locations into this year’s Bay Area travel plans, whether an independent day trip or longer excursion with family and friends:
Presidio to Marin Headlands
Distance: 1.9 miles | Difficulty: Easy
The star to this stretch of trail is none other than San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. One of the less strenuous paths, this short walk also is accessible by wheelchair. As with any bridge, wind conditions are unpredictable, so be sure to carry an extra layer of clothing (scarves or pullovers) to confront extra breezy days.
Mount Tamalpais State Park/Bolinas Ridge
Distance: 6.4 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
For those who enjoy smartphone-worthy landscapes, this is the ideal trail section. From blooming wildflowers to ocean view lookouts along each step, this hike may be a little more demanding, but the vista will certainly help keep the trip on scenic course.
Jack London State Park and East Slope Sonoma Mountain
Distance: 5.5 miles | Difficulty: Hard
Challenge seekers: This one is definitely the one. So, bring it. The trail is located within the historic Jack London State Park. During the journey, expect to go through a rather dense forest. The perk while making it through this woodland is calming streams flowing nearby. Reach the highest point of the mountain’s ridge, and scenery typically found in global magazines of Valley of the Moon and the Bay are end results.
Table Rock to Palisades Spur
Distance: 6 miles | Difficulty: Hard
Ever pondered what it’s truly like to ascend to the highest point of the Bay Area? Now is the time to put action behind the thought. It’s often recommended to try this hike between April and June, because that’s also when wildflowers endemic to the area come out to play. See if you can spot the Southern Oregon buttercup, the Henderson’s fawn lily, or the dwarf woolly meadowfoam. To be clear: This trail requires full hydration, so pack enough fluids to keep moving steadily.
Coyote Lake to Harvey Bear Ranch Park
Distance: 5.6 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
This stretch is picnic perfect. Unplug for a couple of hours next to Coyote Lake, which is a popular feeding area for wild bird species like blue herron, red-necked grebe, and ring-necked ducks. Camp around this popular waterway. Easily bring a backpack. Pitch a tent. Plunge into local lake life. Keep in mind there’s very little shade along the trail, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses if possible.
Carquinez Straight Bike Loop
Distance: 24 miles | Difficulty: Difficult
For Bay Area mountain bike riders, this mix of paved roads and pathways connects the Carquinez Straight through a 24-mile loop. Along the way, take in rarely seen cityscapes of the Bay. When it’s break time, there are plenty of eateries and cafés along the route to refuel or restock on snacks and knick knacks.
Mount Madonna County Park
Distance: 3.5 miles | Difficulty: Difficult
This route is entirely uphill, so prepare mentally and physically before attempting. Start from the Sprig Recreational Area trailhead to climb and climb and climb. Pass by boulder-laced grasslands before finishing in a redwood canyon. It’s an estimated 1,150-foot slope, so good luck!