We talked with Albert Arévalo who has volunteered with Latino Outdoors as the DC area program coordinator since 2016. Here is what he had to share:
What is Latino Outdoors?
José González founded Latino Outdoors in 2013. He recognized the need for creating community connecting with the land. Founded in the Bay Area, Latino Outdoors works in collaboration with Outdoor Afro. They share a common goal to eliminate barriers in the outdoors. They are a community first, before an organization, who use outdoors to form a community.
Is there a chapter of Latino Outdoors in the DMV?
Yes, there is a chapter in the DC area. We strive to support the community to feel comfortable and confident in exploring nature. The hope is that people become ambassadors and motivate others to be comfortable in nature. Find out more details on our Facebook page.
Latino Outdoors partners with organizations in the DC area to support their mission. Some of the programs you can get involved in are listed below:
Potomac Conservancy hosts events like Paddle the Potomac: An Alternative Happy Hour!
REI (DC flagship), locally and nationally, partners to work on barriers and challenges with communities in nature, with programs like the Campout for All.
Brookside Gardens hosts Fun Run with Latino Outdoors during Latino Conservation Week.
Hispanic Access Foundation hosts a kayaking event during Latino Conservation week in Montgomery County.
Is there anything you would like to share with our followers about Latino Outdoors?
Latino Outdoors provides safe spaces where people make personal connections. We offer a gear library to make it possible for the community to enjoy the outdoors. We also have a leadership campout annually, where leaders camp and kayak with people that look and talk alike.
“If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere.” -Vincent van Gogh