New Mexico’s breathtaking landscapes—our mountains, rivers, deserts, and forests—are more than just places of beauty. They are places of healing, learning, and growth. Yet for too long, access to these outdoor spaces has not been equitable. Many young people, particularly in historically underserved communities, face barriers to experiencing the outdoors due to financial limitations, lack of resources, or geographic isolation.

Recognizing this gap, New Mexico created the Outdoor Recreation Division of the NM Economic Development Department and established the Outdoor Equity Fund (OEF) in 2019—the first of its kind in the nation. The mission is clear: ensure that all youth, regardless of their background, can access outdoor recreation, education, and leadership opportunities. Since its inception, OEF has funded hundreds of community programs that introduce young people to nature, build confidence, foster environmental stewardship, and create career pathways in conservation and outdoor industries.

The following blog series tells the stories of OEF grantees across New Mexico—organizations that are transforming lives by providing young people with access to the outdoors. These stories showcase the power of the fund.

While the impact of OEF is undeniable, its funding remains uncertain. Without dedicated, recurring revenue, grantees must reapply for competitive funding every cycle—leading to unmet needs, disrupted programs, and lost opportunities for New Mexico’s youth.

This year, we are advocating for $8 million over the next two years to ensure that OEF continues to reach every corner of the state. These stries show why this investment is critical—not just for today, but for the generations to come.

Join us in supporting the Outdoor Equity Fund and ensuring that all of New Mexico’s youth have the opportunity to connect with nature, their communities, and their futures.

This storytelling project would not have been possible without the dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment of the Outdoor Equity Fund grantees, who continue to create transformative experiences for young people across New Mexico. Their stories are a testament to the power of outdoor access in shaping the confidence, resilience, and futures of our youth.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Wilderness Society, The Semilla Project, Western Resource Advocates, Nuestra Tierra, and all our advocacy partners who continue to fight for sustainable funding for OEF, ensuring that this vital program thrives for years to come.

To New Mexico’s legislators, community leaders, and every supporter who believes in the right of all children to experience the outdoors—thank you for recognizing the urgency and importance of fully funding the Outdoor Equity Fund. Your investment today is a promise to future generations.

And most importantly, to the youth of New Mexico—your curiosity, courage, and connection to nature inspire all of us. This work is for you.

Together, we are building a future where every child has the opportunity to explore, learn, and lead in the great outdoors.