Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Spotlight: Willie Franklin
At Outdoor Afro, our volunteer leaders play a vital role in shaping their local communities. We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Willie Franklin, one of our dedicated Volunteer Leaders, to hear more about his journey with Outdoor Afro. In this Q&A, Willie shares his personal experiences with Outdoor Afro's Volunteer Leadership Program, the impact volunteering has had on him, and why he encourages others to get involved. Here’s what he had to say:
Q: Why did you join the program? What motivated you to become a volunteer leader, and what made you excited about the opportunity?
Willie Franklin, Columbus, Ohio, Midwest region of Outdoor Afro here to tell you about why I joined Outdoor Afro as a volunteer leader and what motivated me to enter into the program. For me, being in the outdoors truly feeds my soul. So to be immersed in a community of people who look like me, who have shared experiences, and sometimes very experiences that look nothing like mine, but it always felt like home every time I peruse the website. So when the opportunity to become a volunteer presented itself, it was a no brainer for me. I had to get involved.
There was so much of me that was already seated within the organization that stepping forward to volunteer as an Outdoor Afro volunteer leader was just a natural step forward. So that's me in a nutshell.
You know, as a volunteer leader, I became excited at the opportunity to not only fully engage with a community that just fed the core of who I am, but to organize people right here in Central Ohio to take part in being nourished by this incredible outdoor joy and to let folks from my community know that they belong here. They belong there. They belong over there. Whether it's fishing, kayaking, skiing, hiking, you name it. Getting outside, returning to the great outdoors, and feeding a portion of their soul is part of their being.
And personally, I think it would be selfish for me not to share that enthusiasm with others.
Q: What was your favorite moment or experience during your time as a volunteer leader? Can you share a specific story or moment that stood out to you and made your experience memorable?
You know, reflecting on one of my favorite moments, in 2024 to enroll or be accepted into the training program for outdoor Afro, volunteer leaders, there was a sense of scarcity, in the community that I grew up as far as black folks in the great outdoors, when in fact there's a huge level of abundance, and it's just a matter of seeking out those individuals. So when I arrive there in Shepherdstown, West Virginia and see this collection of beautiful melanated individuals who look like me and had that same level of passion, how could that not invigorate every ounce of my soul and just feed the need to get outside and fully immerse? So that was definitely a memorable moment as far as my immersion into outdoor Afro.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about applying for the program? How would you encourage others to join and take part in this opportunity?
You know, I've talked to friends and family about Outdoor Afro and shared my delight. And for some, they have been a little hesitant to venture out. So as I attempt to encourage them to take that next step in becoming an Outdoor Afro leader, I just basically ask them what excites them about the great outdoors. You know, what are their favorite memories? And from that, we build into this robust conversation of me listening to them and encouraging them, to recognize the fact that it's so easy to share that joy.
You know, start out with your best bud. Hit the woods. Go for a walk. Go for a fishing trip. Just do something that entails you're getting outside and enjoying what you naturally enjoy.
From there, your community grows. That one person becomes two, leads to four, six, and it goes beyond that. So for me, encouraging people to get out and taking that next step to become a volunteer leader is a matter of asking them what excites them about the great outdoors.
Q: What did you gain as a volunteer leader?
What did I gain? What have I gained as a volunteer leader with Outdoor Afro? Enormous power, power not to let fear be a barrier to getting out and trying new things. I would have never guessed that at 63 years old, I would be attempting to climb a vertical wall, on a climbing road. So, again, it's that sense of power, that sense of empowerment, that can do attitude that has been nourished by my immersion into outdoor Afro.
So for those who have the slightest hesitance, the slightest “I don't know if I can do that,” give it a try. I can guarantee you you will not be disappointed. And when you walk away from that experience, you will know that you made the right step.
You know, the other thing that I gained as a volunteer leader from Outdoor Afro is the sense of confidence that I can lead people, that I can organize outings, that I can create a plan of action, that I can survey areas that I'm totally unfamiliar with, gain confidence in that space. So when I invite others to join me, they have confidence in my ability and trust my ability to lead them, keep them safe, and assist them in exploring and enjoying the great outdoors. So, there's so much to be gained by volunteering an outdoor Afro. It's hard not to enthusiastically talk about it with friends and families and even strangers. So if I had to add anything to my repertoire, it would be carrying outdoor Afro business cards or some little trinket pocket trinket that I can hand to people and say, check out this website.
You're gonna love it. Better yet, join me on the next outing. You're gonna love it.
Are you ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference in your community? The Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Program is more than just an opportunity to explore the outdoors—it’s a chance to grow, connect, and create lasting impact.
If you’re passionate about strengthening connections to nature and leading inclusive outdoor experiences, we want you on this journey with us. Learn more about our Volunteer Leadership program and how you can apply, or share this with someone who you believe would make an amazing Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader!
Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Spotlight: Meet Michael Cheek
At Outdoor Afro, our volunteer leaders play a vital role in shaping their local communities. We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Michael Cheek, one of our dedicated Volunteer Leaders, to hear more about his journey with Outdoor Afro. In this Q&A, Mike shares his personal experiences with Outdoor Afro's Volunteer Leadership Program, the impact volunteering has had on him, and why he encourages others to get involved. Here’s what he had to say:
Q: Why did you join the program? What motivated you to become a volunteer leader, and what made you excited about the opportunity?
I joined Outdoor Afro as a participant because I was really looking for a community of black people that enjoy getting outside and in nature as much as I do. One of my motivations for becoming a leader was really to help that community grow within the DMV. And one of the things that got me excited about the opportunity was that I would have the opportunity to share with a large group a lot of the outdoor locations and activities in this area specifically that mean so much to me.
Q: What was your favorite moment or experience during your time as a volunteer leader? Can you share a specific story or moment that stood out to you and made your experience memorable?
My favorite moment or favorite experience? It's honestly too hard to narrow down to just one. I've had so many wonderful times outdoors with my Outdoor Afro DMV family. I really just love seeing black people getting outside and connecting with one another in nature. But one thing that has made a lot of my events memorable to me is seeing participants get the opportunity to visit places that they've never been, to do outdoor activities that they've never done, and to learn things that they didn't know.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about applying for the program? How would you encourage others to join and take part in this opportunity?
So, if you're looking to apply to become an Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader, I'd say go for it. Becoming a volunteer leader is an amazing way to both impact and interact with your local community. And the beautiful thing is you can be yourself. Plan the activities that you wanna plan, explore the locations that you wanna explore, and share the knowledge that's meaningful to you. And Outdoor Afro as an organization supports this, and they'll be there to provide you with all the training, tools, and resources that you'll need to be a successful new volunteer leader.
Q: What did you gain as a volunteer leader?
What have I gained as an outdoor Afro volunteer leader? Three things immediately come to mind. Number one, I've gained confidence in my ability to lead and my leadership skills. Number two, I've further developed and strengthened my planning and organizational skills. And number three, which is the most important to me, I've gained a community of people that's like a second family to me.
So thank you, Outdoor Afro.
Are you ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference in your community? The Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Program is more than just an opportunity to explore the outdoors—it’s a chance to grow, connect, and create lasting impact.
If you’re passionate about strengthening connections to nature and leading inclusive outdoor experiences, we want you on this journey with us. Learn more about our Volunteer Leadership program and how you can apply, or share this with someone who you believe would make an amazing Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader!
Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Spotlight: Meet Dr. Wednesday Jones
At Outdoor Afro, our volunteer leaders play a vital role in shaping their local communities. We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Wednesday Jones, one of our dedicated Volunteer Leaders, to hear more about her journey with Outdoor Afro. In this Q&A, Dr. Jones shares her personal experiences with Outdoor Afro's Volunteer Leadership Program, the impact volunteering has had on her, and why she encourages others to get involved. Here’s what she had to say:
Q: Why did you join the program? What motivated you to become a volunteer leader, and what made you excited about the opportunity?
I wanted to come on here real quick and kinda talk to you about Outdoor Afro, why I decided to join, more importantly, why I decided to become a leader. And it is real simple for me. Okay? I love the outdoors.
For those of you that know, when you're out there hiking, when you're out there camping, not too many people that look like us. Right? So [when] I found out about Outdoor Afro, I went on my first hike, and I was hooked. I could not believe it! I am out here in nature with people who look like me.
So when I found out that they had a leadership program, that was a no brainer for me. Because how could I not? How could I not share this wonderful experience that I got to enjoy. I'm in my first year. I am still excited.I hope you have an opportunity to join as well.
Q: What was your favorite moment or experience during your time as a volunteer leader? Can you share a specific story or moment that stood out to you and made your experience memorable?
Let me talk to you about one of my favorite moments as an outdoor Afro leader. I was up at Shenandoah National Park — one of my favorite all time parks — doing Doyle's River hike. It is beautiful.
A young lady that I'm hiking with, she turns to me and she says that Outdoor Afro saved her life. She's sharing some intimate details with me about the pandemic and how it was a dark time for [her], but she was able to get outdoors in nature. It was therapeutic for her, and it just kinda helped her through those times.
So to be a part of that, and know that I'm out here making a difference in people's lives—that will always stick with me. I'm hoping I'm able to do that a thousand times over, but that's one of my favorite moments.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about applying for the program? How would you encourage others to join and take part in this opportunity?
I'm gonna talk to you a little bit about OALT. That is our annual summit training—we all kinda come together as leaders.
Now when I tell you ain't nothing but melanin out there in nature, it is a beautiful thing. This is my first year. So I get there, and they are teaching me about how to host events, map compassing classes, camping, you name it! We have guest speakers about different things in nature, exposing me to so much.
So if you are thinking about becoming a leader, I tell you, it will open up a world in nature that you never even thought about. And the most beautiful thing is we are doing it with each other.
Q: What did you gain as a volunteer leader?
I gained a network. I don't care where I'm at—whether I'm in Jersey, whether I'm in North Carolina, whether I'm in Washington state, whether I'm in Arizona—I can pick up the phone and be like, “I'm in your city.” Whether it is a network of leaders, a network of participants, every day it grows.
And I have gained a village. I have gained a village [where] we can just say, “Hey, let's just go for a hike on Saturday or Sunday,” or if I'm in someone's city say, “Hey, let's put an event together.”
That is what I have gained; I have gained a village and it continues to grow every day. I hope to see you, too.
Are you ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference in your community? The Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Program is more than just an opportunity to explore the outdoors—it’s a chance to grow, connect, and create lasting impact.
If you’re passionate about strengthening connections to nature and leading inclusive outdoor experiences, we want you on this journey with us. Learn more about our Volunteer Leadership program and how you can apply, or share this with someone who you believe would make an amazing Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader!
Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Spotlight: Meet Chantell Murphy
At Outdoor Afro, our volunteer leaders play a vital role in shaping their local communities. We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Chantell Murphy, one of our dedicated Volunteer Leaders, to hear more about her journey with Outdoor Afro. In this Q&A, Chantell shares her personal experiences with Outdoor Afro's Volunteer Leadership Program, the impact volunteering has had on her, and why she encourages others to get involved. Here’s what she had to say:
Q: Why did you join the program? What motivated you to become a volunteer leader, and what made you excited about the opportunity?
I was excited to become a volunteer leader with Outdoor Afro so that I can meet other Black people who like to spend as much time outside as I do. I was really excited to plan new adventures and go to places that I've never been before.
I live in New Mexico and there are just so many places to explore. And I usually don't want to go by myself. And so, I kind of have this ready-made community, ready to go on adventures, ready to try new things.
And Outdoor Afro is just such an amazing organization because it encourages us to do that. I think it's really easy for people to get behind the mission and, you know, we're cultivating a sense of community and belonging and we're just really having a lot of fun.
Q: What was your favorite moment or experience during your time as a volunteer leader? Can you share a specific story or moment that stood out to you and made your experience memorable?
I've been a volunteer leader for about a year now, and I've had so many fun experiences and great memories. I would say one that really stands out is our big fish event. So last year, I organized a fly fishing event in the Jemez Mountains with the National Park Service there. And I was pretty excited for this event because I've never fly-fished before, but I've always wanted to. And so this event was really well organized. It started with an indoor component, kind of the classroom session where we would learn about the different types of fish, what fly fishing is, what the different rods are.
And then we got to practice inside with indoor friendly rods. And then this latter half of the day, we were gonna go out into the backcountry and learn how to fly fish in the river. Everything was organized. We didn't have too many people who signed up, but that's okay. But it ended up being an incredibly cold day.
It snowed. There was ice everywhere. I still went out. My dad came, and then our other outdoor leader in Albuquerque came up. And we ended up having a really great indoor session.
We were able to ask a lot of questions about the type of fish that get stocked in different areas, talked about invasive species and what some different ideas are to get rid of the invasive species and let the native species of fish thrive. And so it ended up being just a really great experience. It was memorable because it just didn't really work out the way that I had planned. But, you know, being flexible and kind of respecting nature, is really a big lesson and a big part of being an outdoor Afro leader, because, you know, because that is an integral part of of the experience is being out in nature and being able to pivot and not put people at risk just because you want to do something or just because you plan to do it in a specific way.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about applying for the program? How would you encourage others to join and take part in this opportunity?
If you're thinking about becoming a volunteer leader with Outdoor Afro, I highly recommend you do it. The organization is really well organized, and everything is done with a lot of intention. So that makes your role as a volunteer leader very easy and very meaningful. They're consistent and clear. Everything's done very transparently, so you'll know everything from the branding to the types of partnerships that they encourage and even how to fill out the trip reports at the end of every activity.
I think everyone in the organization takes their role very seriously and with a lot of integrity. As a volunteer leader, you will never question whether or not you're making an impact.
Q: What did you gain as a volunteer leader?
As a volunteer leader, I think I've gained so much. I've gained an amazing sense of community, and I've gained these new leadership skills that has cultivated a real sense of confidence in me. Everything from planning the event to making sure all of the details are really well thought out, including mitigating risk. These are really amazing skills to have to carry out into other parts of my life. I've gained a sense that I'm creating a real difference in my community, and that feels really positive.
Are you ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference in your community? The Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Program is more than just an opportunity to explore the outdoors—it’s a chance to grow, connect, and create lasting impact.
If you’re passionate about strengthening connections to nature and leading inclusive outdoor experiences, we want you on this journey with us. Learn more about our Volunteer Leadership program and how you can apply, or share this with someone who you believe would make an amazing Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader!
Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Spotlight: Meet Angel Chung Cutno
At Outdoor Afro, our volunteer leaders play a vital role in shaping their local communities. We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Angel Chung Cutno, one of our dedicated Volunteer Leaders, to hear more about her journey with Outdoor Afro. In this Q&A, Angel shares her personal experiences with Outdoor Afro's Volunteer Leadership Program, the impact volunteering has had on her, and why she encourages others to get involved. Here’s what she had to say:
Q: Why did you join the program? What motivated you to become a volunteer leader, and what made you excited about the opportunity?
I ended up joining Outdoor Afro because I had just enrolled in another program in the city, to become a certified master naturalist, and I saw in someone's bio in the cohort that she was involved in outdoor Afro. And I looked it up immediately and realized that this was something I wanted to be a part of because I already love being outdoors and doing a lot of outdoor activities, camping, climbing, hiking, all of that, biking. And to be able to do this and hold space with other black folks is exactly up my alley. So I became an outdoor Afro so that I could share outdoors experiences with other black people.
Q: What was your favorite moment or experience during your time as a volunteer leader? Can you share a specific story or moment that stood out to you and made your experience memorable?
Last summer, we went camping, and we really didn't have to leave that far from New Orleans to be able to do it. But it was about an hour drive, and just going that far makes it feel like a completely different setting that you're in. And we were able to be in a place where we had a beach and we had a hiking trail, and we also just had a really beautiful food setup. And I wouldn't call it glamping, but we had a great time being outdoors. And we were also able to teach other people skills of how to be outdoors and how to set up a tent and how to forage and identify plants.
And so having that memory of knowing that we are sharing knowledge and going back to the proverb of each-one-teach-one is really exciting. And that's why I love Outdoor Afro is to be able to see that spark in people when they learn something new about the outdoors, and it gives them a greater sense of confidence and willingness to even participate in outdoor activities.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about applying for the program? How would you encourage others to join and take part in this opportunity?
To anyone else that's thinking about applying, just do it. I mean, if you already love the outdoors, if you're already doing activities, why not just have a platform so that you can invite other people to join activities with you? And that's basically how I do it. I mean, all the activities that I host, I would end up doing on my own anyway, but I get to invite other black people into the space. And as soon as I tell them, I host outdoor meetups for black people, they get really excited.
And so it's a really easy sell because people are excited about trying new things. And if they are nervous about it, knowing that there's gonna be a community of other people that look like them makes them more eager and willing to be able to try new things in a space that they know will be safe.
Q: What did you gain as a volunteer leader?
Since I've been a leader of Outdoor Afro, I have gained new friendships and ways to connect with people that I might not have otherwise met. And so I go to other events and I talk about outdoor Afro there, and I invite people to meet ups. And so it just creates a way for me to be able to, create a community and have company on some of these activities that I would always do. So I love being able to expand the network of people, the community of people, and the horizons of the people that come out to the events.
Are you ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference in your community? The Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Program is more than just an opportunity to explore the outdoors—it’s a chance to grow, connect, and create lasting impact.
If you’re passionate about strengthening connections to nature and leading inclusive outdoor experiences, we want you on this journey with us. Learn more about our Volunteer Leadership program and how you can apply, or share this with someone who you believe would make an amazing Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader!
Celebrating Black Nature Conservationists Throughout History
Throughout history, many cultures have embraced the importance of living in balance with nature, recognizing it as essential for life itself. Despite systemic barriers, Black environmentalists have made profound and lasting contributions to sustainability and conservation.
From pioneering figures like George Washington Carver to present-day trailblazers like Rue Mapp, Black leaders have shaped and enriched the nature conservation movement in countless ways. This Black History Month, we’re celebrating the achievements of four remarkable Black conservationists whose work continues to inspire and guide us in our mission to change the narrative of who can recreate the outdoors, and re-strengthen Black connections to land, water, and wildlife.
George Washington Carver (1864-1943)
Last year, we celebrated internationally recognized inventor, educator, and botanist George Washington Carver during Black History Month 2024.
Carver developed more than 300 commercial, industrial, and food products between the late 19th and early 20th centuries using the peanut. He originated cooking oils, beverages, paper, soaps, cosmetics, dyes, paints/stains, and even medicines, earning him the nickname “The Peanut Man.”
Carver also released 44 nature bulletins that reported cultivation findings for farmers, recipes for housewives, and science information for teachers. Many of the items he created are still used in nature today – by Outdoor Afro’s staff, team of volunteer leaders, and community participants across the United States.
Read more about the agricultural contributions of George Washington Carver on our Black History Month 2024 page.
MaVynee “The Beach Lady” Betsch (1935-2005)
Meet MaVynee Betsch, a true force of nature and a champion for environmental preservation.
The great-granddaughter of Florida’s first Black millionaire, A.L. Lewis, MaVynee traded a promising career as an opera singer and poured her inheritance into environmental causes, using her voice—both literally and figuratively—to advocate for American Beach on Amelia Island, Florida, a haven for Black Americans during the segregation era.
Her connection to American Beach ran as far back as her childhood; it was established by her father during the Jim Crow era as a safe, welcoming oasis for Black families to gather, relax, and enjoy the healing power and beauty of nature. So when environmental threats and property development endangered the area, MaVynee took action.
MaVynee Betsch later became known as “The Beach Lady” for dedicating her life to protecting American Beach. She even led tours for school field trips, during which she shared the beach’s history and inspired a new generation to value its significance. Thanks to her efforts, parts of American Beach are now protected as a historic site, preserving its legacy for generations to come.
Learn more about outdoor spaces across the country that have long been safer havens for Black people to find joy in nature in our Black Oases article, made in collaboration with REI.
Wangari Maathai, The Tree Mother of Africa (1940–2011)
Born in Kenya, Dr. Wangari Maathai was a visionary leader who believed that the power of people—and trees—could transform the world.
In 1977, Dr. Maathai founded the Green Belt Movement, an organization that has since planted over 50 million trees, helping to restore the environment and empowering Kenyan women through conservation. She also made strides in government, serving as Kenya’s Assistant Minister for Environment, Natural Resources, and Wildlife, and was elected to Parliament with an incredible 98% of the vote.
Her impact reached global recognition in 2004 when she became the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for her groundbreaking work in sustainable development, democracy, and peace. Dr. Maathai’s legacy reminds us how one person’s commitment to the land can spark a movement that changes generations.
Across the country, our Volunteer Leaders share well known, little-known, and unknown stories of Black relationships with land, water, and wildlife—stories that, like Dr. Maathai’s, inspire leadership, conservation, and a long-lasting love for nature. Learn more about our Volunteer Leadership Program, and consider donating to support our yearly volunteer leader training and ensure that our volunteers are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to safely lead fun, intergenerational outdoor adventures that bring people together.
Rue Mapp (1971- )
Raised on a ranch in Northern California, Rue Mapp grew up immersed in the beauty of the outdoors. As she got older, she noticed how unique her childhood experiences of fishing, hiking, and exploring nature were compared to other Black Americans. That realization sparked the idea for Outdoor Afro.
In 2009, Rue launched a blog to detail her experiences in nature in the hopes of connecting Black Americans to the outdoors. Today, Rue Mapp is the Founder and CEO of Outdoor Afro. What started as a passion project has grown from a kitchen table blog into a national not-for-profit that encourages Black connections and leadership in the outdoors.
These are just a few of many stories to remind us that Black leadership in nature is deeply rooted in our history. From the pioneering agricultural work of George Washington Carver to the relentless environmental advocacy of MaVynee Betsch and Wangari Maathai, Black changemakers have long shaped the landscapes we know, love, and enjoy today.
At Outdoor Afro, we honor this legacy by continuing to foster Black connections and leadership in nature, guiding communities to explore, learn, and take action in the outdoors. The outdoors is a place for everyone to connect with nature, our shared history, and our community.