PROGRAMS
Outdoor AfroLeadership Training
Known as the “most wonderful time of the year,” Outdoor Afro Leadership Training (OALT) is the network’s annual training for the newest class of Outdoor Afro volunteer leaders. OALT is where these outdoor enthusiasts gain firsthand experience in navigating and leading in nature. An always-anticipated training, OALT discusses and puts into action outdoor conservation, education, and recreation so that volunteer leaders can create safe, sustainable, and nature-rich activities in their local communities across the nation. It’s also an intimate opportunity for volunteers, Outdoor Afro staff, and network partners to bond and continue to strengthen Black people’s relationships with the outdoors.
OALT is also a transformative weekend gathering each year. Outdoor Afro staff and experienced volunteers share the organization’s history, values, best practices, and industry knowledge. Volunteers learn trip planning basics, health impacts of nature, conservation ethics, risk management, and effective social media storytelling. Select partners and guest speakers are invited to the training to provide field insights, and share inspiration and encouragement. After training, volunteer leaders create and guide monthly trips that foster local program collaborations, and help strengthen community relationships with the outdoors. Volunteer leaders center joy and healing, while also disrupting a false perception that Black people do not have a relationship to nature.