The Opening the Outdoors Program has resulted in:
90
+Local nonprofit organizations supported
84000
+Youth and families accessing the outdoors
2451
+Gear items have been purchased at discounted pricing for 17 nonprofit partners
As of August 2024
Outdoor Access for All
Nature is not an amenity but a necessity for the well-being of all San Diegans. However, many local communities lack critical access to parks and green space, as demonstrated in our Parks for Everyone 2020 report.
Equitable access to parks and green space is more important than ever before to ensure every San Diegan has a strong quality of life.
Since 2010, the Opening the Outdoors Program has connected, protected and increased equitable access to the outdoors across the county, especially for San Diegans in underserved and park-deficient communities.
The Opening the Outdoors Program helps to:
Build Environmental Stewardship
Connecting children with nature provides meaningful experiences that nurtures the next generation of environmental stewards
Experience the Outdoors
Going outdoors can reduce levels of stress and anxiety and risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes – leading causes of death in San Diego County
Protect Outdoor Spaces
Experiencing the value of the outdoors emphasizes the need to preserve green spaces and protect biodiversity
Community Impact
Creating a Culture of Environmental Stewardship
Community Impact
San Diego Foundation Grants $629K to Local Nonprofits Expanding Equitable Access to the Outdoors and Building Future Environmental Champions
Community Impact
City Heights CDC Pedals Towards Inclusive Beach Access
Environment
Exploring the Outdoors at Living Coast Discovery Center