Centred Outdoors is committed to making the outdoors more accessible and inclusive for all, including the next generation of leaders who pave the way. This scholarship program provides diverse individuals of our community with the resources and funding to participate in a personally tailored suite of nationally recognized trainings, workshops, and conferences. By reducing barriers to entering outdoor-related fields, we aim to support a more diverse community of individuals who can see themselves as changemakers in environmental stewardship, education, and conservation. Diversity of representation in the outdoors is vital, as it drives our perception of reality – who we expect to see outdoors and what they are capable of achieving. It allows individuals to feel comfortable and welcomed in the spaces they are interested in joining, and cultivates a sense of belonging. 

“Learn, Collaborate, Connect!”

The Outdoor Leadership Cohort is one way that Centred Outdoors is committed to serving as a more diverse and equitable resource in Central Pennsylvania, and inspiring other Land Trusts and Outdoor Organizations to take on this important work to serve, collaborate with, and celebrate all members of their community. Accessible and inclusive outings increase racial, ethnic, gender, and cultural diversity in the outdoors, which improve community health, foster a better appreciation of one another, and broaden our understanding of the importance of inclusive conservation efforts. A diverse ecosystem is a thriving one and we welcome you to join us in this effort!

Program Information and How to Apply

Training & certifications you’ll receive

  • Develop leadership and technical skills
  • Build your skills as a naturalist and learn more about the methods of interpretive education
  • Receive guidance and mentorship on your own Individual Leadership Project 
  • Receive a training stipend to be certified in Leave No Trace, Wilderness First Aid, and additional relevant trainings, certifications, or conferences that support your personal goals as a leader in the outdoors
  • Build connections with local and statewide networks

Program elements and timeline

Meetings

  • May 15: Welcome Orientation 
  • June 5: Individual Project Introduction
  • July 17: Facilitated Dialogue session with Centred Outdoors DEI coach (tentative)
  • August 14: ClearWater DEIJB Committee Panel (tentative)
  • September 18: Individual project check-ins
  • October 9: Reflection and Debrief

Certifications

  • June TBD: Attend a 16-hour Leave No Trace Instructor 1 certification course
  • August 10-11:  Attend a 16-hour Wilderness First Aid certification course

Addtional Certifications: Register and attend certification or trainings of your choice using allotted stipend. Options may include Certified Interpretive Guide, Leave No Trace Instructor 2, Wilderness First Responder (offered through several companies), Project Learning Tree, and more!

Cost, eligibility, and how to apply

No cost: There is no cost to join the outdoor leadership cohort. All fees, certifications, workshops, or conferences you choose to attend are covered fully by Centred Outdoors.

Eligibility: Individuals with a desire to pursue their interests in the field of environmental education and interpretation are encouraged to apply. Individuals who identify as a person of color, a member of a historically marginalized community, and/or as having a diverse cultural or social background or perspective are encouraged to apply.

Apply: Please fill out our online application. Deadline to apply is April 5, 2024. Candidate interviews will occur in April; acceptance offers will be sent by or before April 22.