Empowering Guides of Tomorrow
written by Chrisha Favors
Since the year of our inception, Wild Diversity has dreamed of ways we can create positive learning experiences in the outdoors for BIPOC and LGBTQ2S+ communities.
We believe that the outdoors are for everyone and that underrepresented communities deserve to experience the outdoors in a safer, and more inclusive way. As we dream for the future, we dream of pathways to building an outdoors for all with education being at the forefront of this effort.
Over the years, Wild Diversity has been the training ground for countless individuals who have gone on to become skilled outdoor leaders, showcasing their passion and expertise to adventurers from all walks of life. Our adventure guide program has consistently served as the cornerstone of our diverse range of offerings and has provided the representation in leadership that we need in the outdoors. We believe that representation matters when it comes to true diversity in the outdoors. When participants see outdoor leaders who look like them, share their experiences, and understand their perspectives, it creates a powerful sense of belonging and inspires confidence. We continue to dream about how our guide program will take shape for generations to come.
In 2024, we're excited to not only welcome back our diverse team of returning guides, but we will also be hiring seasonal guides to support our programs and training Black-identifying youth interns from Tappin Roots based in Portland, OR. This year's training will delve deeper into our programs, offering a comprehensive skill set, equipping guides to step confidently into the outdoor industry. We have high hopes that our guides will be role models, demonstrating that outdoor leadership is attainable for everyone, regardless of their background.
We invite you to continue dreaming of the future with us. Our mission is not just about training guides; it’s about empowering leaders, promoting diversity, and shaping a future where outdoor experiences are accessible and enriching for everyone. With the collective efforts of our community, we are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable outdoor world.
As we continue this journey together, we invite you to stay engaged with Wild Diversity. Your ongoing support, whether through participation, sharing your experiences, spreading the word about our programs (or maybe even joining our adventure guide/intern programs!) is vital in shaping the future of our community. We are always here to listen, learn, and dream big alongside you.
