Western North Carolina Launches Thrive Outside Initiative to Expand Outdoor Access for Youth and Families

Asheville, NC (August 28, 2025) – On August 25, 2025, a diverse coalition of community leaders, funders, outdoor advocates, and government partners gathered at Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins along the French Broad River to celebrate the official launch of Thrive Outside Western North Carolina — a new multi-year initiative dedicated to increasing access to the outdoors, especially for communities that have historically faced systemic barriers to outdoor recreation.

The Thrive Outside WNC initiative is spearheaded by the North Carolina Outdoor Economy Office, in partnership with the Outdoor Foundation, The Morrison Family Foundation, and VF Foundation. The effort is powered by a dynamic coalition of local partners including youth-serving organizations, public schools and school districts, environmental education programs, outdoor recreation businesses, workforce development organizations, conservation nonprofits, and community groups. The initiative aims to strengthen cross-sector partnerships that foster lifelong connections to nature for youth and families across the region.

“We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy and benefit from time spent outdoors. This initiative marks an exciting and collaborative milestone—one that will introduce more youth across the region to meaningful outdoor experiences while fostering a lasting sense of welcome and connection to nature,” said Amy Allison, Director of the North Carolina Outdoor Recreation Industry Office.

The launch event brought together leaders from the western counties of North Carolina and featured remarks from funding partners, local organizations, and supporters from the outdoor industry. Guests enjoyed locally sourced refreshments, a riverfront gathering, and a shared vision for a more inclusive and connected outdoor culture in Western North Carolina.

Through a place-based and community-driven approach, Thrive Outside WNC aims to:

  • Expand high-quality, culturally relevant outdoor programs for youth
  • Build a sustainable regional network of cross-sector partners
  • Support youth leadership and workforce development in the outdoor sector
  • Center belonging and inclusivity in outdoor access and environmental stewardship

The Thrive Outside initiative is a national movement powered by the Outdoor Foundation and its outdoor industry and philanthropic partners to create and support a network of communities committed to increasing outdoor access for youth and families. Over the past 6 years, the Outdoor Foundation has launched 14 Thrive Outside Communities across the country that have collectively helped to connect over 300,000 children, youth and families to transformative experiences in the outdoors.

“This initiative builds on the strong foundation of partnerships already thriving across Western North Carolina’s communities,” said Lesford Duncan, Executive Director of the Outdoor Foundation. “By strengthening and expanding this collaborative network, we’re supporting the region as it rebuilds from the impacts of Hurricane Helene—creating an outdoor recreation economy that is more resilient and inclusive.”

“This is about more than outdoor recreation — it’s about healing communities, nurturing wellbeing, and strengthening bonds between people and Western North Carolina’s landscapes.”

The VF Foundation has been a steadfast partner of the Outdoor Foundation for many years, investing in programs that lift barriers to outdoor access and youth leadership nationwide. Their continued support for Thrive Outside Western North Carolina reflects their deep commitment to fostering inclusive outdoor communities and building pathways for youth to thrive through nature and recreation. “We believe in the transformative power of nature and the importance of making it accessible to all to fuel the next generation of explorers. Supporting initiatives like Thrive Outside is central to our mission of expanding opportunities for youth to connect with the outdoors and grow as leaders,” said Gloria Schoch, Executive Director of the VF Foundation.

The Morrison Family Foundation is excited to join forces with the Outdoor Foundation and local partners in this initiative. They see Thrive Outside WNC as a critical opportunity to foster  access to the outdoors and support community resilience and wellness as the region rebuilds. Their enthusiasm and funding will help ensure the initiative’s long-term impact and success. “We are proud to support Thrive Outside Western North Carolina and believe it will be a powerful catalyst for healing and opportunity across the region,” said Bruce Boyd, Executive Director of the Morrison Family Foundation.

The Outdoor Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Outdoor Industry Association, is a national 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to getting people outside for their health, the health of communities, and the health of the outdoor industry. Through community investment and groundbreaking research, the Outdoor Foundation works with partners across the country to address equity barriers and help make the outdoors accessible for all. Visit outdoorfoundation.org for more information.

To learn more about Thrive Outside Western North Carolina, visit https://outdoorindustry.org/participation/thrive-outside/thrive-outside-wnc

Thrive Outside Western North Carolina is sponsored by:

North Carolina Department of Commerce
Outdoor Foundation
The VF Foundation
Morrison Family Foundation

Sol Systems and Outdoor Industry Association Partner to Expand Access to Clean Energy

Sol Systems to offer RECs and impact-driven clean energy subscriptions to outdoor brands via the Sustainable Choice platform

Washington, D.C. (August 18, 2025) — Sol Systems has announced a new partnership with Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) to expand access to clean energy solutions for the outdoor industry. Through this collaboration, OIA members can now subscribe to Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) via Sol’s Sustainable Choice platform—an easy-to-use clean energy “subscription” offering designed for mission-driven brands and retailers.

This partnership builds on Sol’s deep experience working with outdoor leaders such as REI and Patagonia, and marks the first enterprise launch of Sustainable Choice, Sol’s simplified, digital purchasing platform for clean energy and community impact.

“Sol Systems has been a trusted clean energy partner to some of the most respected brands in the outdoor industry,” said Susanne Fratzscher, VP of Strategic Solutions at Sol Systems. “Now, through our work with OIA, we’re proud to offer project-specific RECs + Impact to any brand, large or small, through a seamless, transparent platform.”

A New Pathway to Clean Energy for Outdoor Brands

The outdoor industry has long led the way in climate action. But for smaller retailers or regional brands, clean energy options and impact investments have not always been accessible. Project RECs + Impact offered through Sustainable Choice changes that.

Through Sol’s partnership with OIA, member companies now have a trusted, vetted channel to purchase RECs tied to wind and solar projects across the country—either from Sol’s national REC pool or project-specific offerings. Participating companies can also contribute to a shared Community Investment Fund, designed to aggregate impact and deliver measurable benefits to frontline communities.

This partnership also offers OIA members a new way to demonstrate collective environmental leadership, and to tell a story about clean energy that extends beyond individual transactions.

“We often hear from members that accessing clean energy can feel out of reach, especially for smaller member brands. Collaborating with Sol Systems makes renewable energy solutions more accessible for OIA members. Through this partnership, we’ve created a path for outdoor companies, regardless of size, to invest in renewable energy and reduce emissions,” said Julie Brown, Director of Sustainable Business Innovation at OIA.

Sol Systems currently manages REC transactions for more than 30,000 individual and organizational customers, bringing deep experience, responsive support, and a strong track record of impact-driven procurement. With Project RECs + Impact through Sustainable Choice, we are lowering the barriers to entry for meaningful environmental action.

To see this approach in action, check out the video of our recent collaboration with REI and Nester Hosiery, which highlights how REC purchasing can be both simple and meaningful.

 

About Sol Systems
Sol Systems is an Independent Power Producer (IPP) committed to building, owning, and managing clean energy infrastructure that benefits local communities. With over 7 GW of projects across 38 states, Sol integrates energy storage and grid resiliency solutions to deliver reliable, sustainable power to Fortune 500 companies, municipalities, utilities, and schools. Through strategic partnerships and community reinvestment, Sol ensures clean energy development drives long-term economic and environmental benefits. Founded in 2008 and led by its founder, Sol Systems is dedicated to shaping an energy future we can all believe in.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colorado, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective of business leaders, climate experts, policymakers, and outdoor enthusiasts, OIA supports the success of member companies through sustainability consulting, advocacy, research, and events. Learn more at outdoorindustry.org.

OIA Launches Inaugural Outdoor Footwear Trends Report

BOULDER, CO – 08/07/2025 – The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) today released its first-ever category-specific Outdoor Footwear Trends Report for 2025, providing in-depth analysis and actionable insights into the evolving outdoor footwear market. This report marks a significant step for OIA in offering focused analysis on specific segments within the broader outdoor industry, beginning with footwear.

This inaugural report leverages trusted OIA data combined with insights from Circana, Civic Science, and RunRepeat to offer a holistic view of the outdoor footwear landscape. Designed to inform strategic decision-making, the report goes beyond raw data to provide actionable intelligence, enabling businesses to stay ahead of market trends, optimize resource allocation, and refine marketing strategies. The OIA aims to provide valuable resources for stakeholders navigating the evolving outdoor recreation sector.

“This report represents a significant milestone for OIA, as we delve into specific categories to provide more granular and actionable insights,” said Kelly Davis, Director of Research at the Outdoor Industry Association. “By focusing on footwear, we offer a comprehensive understanding of the trends shaping this market segment, empowering our members to make informed decisions and capitalize on emerging opportunities.”

Key Findings:

  • Market Growth: Despite a 9% decrease in unit sales, retail sales revenue increased by 1%, totaling $5.15 billion, highlighting the impact of rising prices.
  • Running Dominance: Road running shoes continue to lead the market with $2.4 billion in sales, while a growing trend of using running shoes for hiking is impacting hiking boot sales.
  • Regional Variances: The South Atlantic region shows the highest outdoor activity participation, and Nevada leads the US in footwear ownership, averaging 19 pairs per person.
  • Consumer Preferences: The average American owns six pairs of shoes, with consumers increasingly opting for versatile footwear that can transition between activities like walking and running.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org.

MEDIA CONTACT

 Andriana Rogers | Director of Marketing Communications, OIA | arogers@outdoorindustry.org

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OIA 2024 Impact Reports Celebrate Industry Leadership on Climate Action and Clean Chemistry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

The outdoor industry advances its climate and chemical safety goals with significant progress in emissions reduction and responsible chemistry to build a stronger outdoor business. 

Boulder, CO (July 22, 2025) — Outdoor Industry Association’s (OIA) Climate Action Corps (CAC) and Clean Chemistry and Materials Coalition (CCMC) are proud to announce the remarkable achievements of 2024, spotlighting how the outdoor industry is advancing in sustainable business practices and climate resilience to build a stronger outdoor economy. In a challenging regulatory environment, these milestones highlight how industry-led efforts can make a meaningful difference for environmental health and a sustainable future. 

About the Climate Action Corps: Since 2020, OIA members participating in the CAC are committed to collaboratively developing and implementing solutions to combat climate change throughout their organizations and across their value chains. By taking bold collective action, these leaders are driving the industry toward reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieving net-zero by 2050—aims essential for limiting global warming to 1.5°C and preventing the worst impacts of climate change.  

Throughout 2024, the 61 members of the Climate Action Corps have made substantial progress, including: 

  • 97% measuring or progressing on measuring their Scope 1 and 2 emissions; 90% addressing Scope 3 emissions 
  • 95% establishing GHG reduction action plans 
  • 59% making measurable progress toward these targets 
  • Significant engagement with supply chain partners, shifting to lower-GHG products, and improving energy efficiency among suppliers 

About the Clean Chemistry and Materials Coalition (CCMC): Launched in summer 2023, the CCMC supports retailers, brands, manufacturers, and distributors in adopting safer, more sustainable chemicals and materials. This coalition innovates on sustainability, aims to build consumer trust in their brands, and proactively prepares for chemical regulations. The CCMC supports members as they pioneer innovation in safer chemistry, build consumer trust, and deliver durable, trustworthy products. This is the first year that the progress of the CCMC has been reported by its 51 members. 

Key 2024 milestones include: 

  • 79% of members setting chemical management goals 
  • 65% developing action plans to achieve safer chemistry 
  • 90% communicating their Restricted Substances Lists (RSL) to their suppliers 
  • Significant strides in phasing out PFAS and strengthening chemicals management practices throughout the supply chain 

Industry Leadership and Impact:
The Outdoor Industry Association, through the Climate Action Corps and Clean Chemistry and Materials Coalition, is leading the way as the outdoor industry takes decisive action to protect our planet. These efforts are not only reducing the industry’s environmental footprint but also fostering innovation, transparency, and consumer confidence. “While there is still work to be done, our collective efforts in 2024 demonstrate resilience and the industry’s strong commitment to sustainability,” said Julie Brown, OIA Director of Sustainable Business Innovation.  

About Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org. 

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OIA Opposes Chairman Lee’s Latest Public Lands Proposal

Boulder, CO (June 26, 2025) — Today, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) issued the following statement regarding the updated language introduced by Chairman Mike Lee (R-UT) to renew his fight to include the public lands selloff provision in the Republican’s reconciliation package after the Senate’s parliamentarian disqualified his earlier plan to mandate the sale of millions of acres.

“Chairman Lee’s latest proposal to sell off some of our most treasured public lands poses a renewed threat to the landscapes that are vital to local economies, small businesses, and the outdoor recreation community,” said Kent Ebersole, president of Outdoor Industry Association. “The bill would significantly shrink BLM lands across 11 states, eliminate public input, bypass the environmental review process, and mandate the disposal of lands near population centers, putting accessible outdoor recreation at risk for millions of Americans. It’s time for Congress to move past this misguided and deeply unpopular idea and instead focus on policies that grow the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy and support the gateway communities that depend on it.”

Tell Congress: Hands Off Our Public Lands

Take action now through OIA’s Action Center:


About Outdoor Industry Association

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org.

Wiley X Supports the Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation’s Annual American Hero Event for the Second Year in a Row

Frisco, TX – [June 24, 2025] Wiley X, a leading provider of protective eyewear, once again proudly supported The Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation’s Annual American Hero Event. As a Silver Level sponsor, Wiley X donated 100 pairs of premium eyewear to help honor and empower veterans through the therapeutic power of nature.

Held in Virginia this past Fall, the special event welcomed 80 veterans for a day of outdoor recreation, including clay shooting, archery, and meaningful fellowship. The American Hero Event underscores the Foundation’s mission to provide therapeutic outdoor experiences for those who have served our country.

To learn more about The Ward Burton Wildlife Foundation and its mission, visit: https://www.wileyx.com/pages/ward-burton-wildlife-foundation

For more information about Wiley X and its product offerings, visit www.wileyx.com.

 

OIA Responds to Disappointing Public Lands Sale Provisions in the Senate ENR Committee Bill

Boulder, CO (June 12, 2025) — Today, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) issued the following statement regarding the newly introduced reconciliation bill from the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, unveiled by Chairman Mike Lee (R-UT).

“It is deeply disappointing to see the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee’s reconciliation bill once again puts our treasured public lands on the selling block,” said Kent Ebersole, OIA President. “We appreciated that the House removed a similar provision from its version of the bill and we strongly encourage the Senate to do the same. We will continue working with the bipartisan coalition in Congress that helped stop this proposal last month to protect these critical places that power the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy.”

About Outdoor Industry Association

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org.

RecPak Partners with Access Fund to Fuel Conservation Efforts and Protect America’s Climbing Areas

June 10, 2025 – RecPak, the innovative outdoor nutrition company, today announced its partnership with Access Fund, the national advocacy organization dedicated to keeping climbing areas open and conserving the climbing environment. This collaboration unites two mission-driven organizations committed to supporting outdoor professionals and protecting the wild places that define the American outdoor experience.

The partnership represents a natural alignment between RecPak’s mission to fuel outdoor adventurers and professionals in challenging environments and Access Fund’s work to ensure sustainable access to climbing areas while protecting critical outdoor landscapes. Both organizations share a deep commitment to supporting the people who push boundaries in remote environments whether they’re search and rescue professionals, wildland firefighters, or climbing advocates working to preserve access to America’s iconic crags.

Access Fund’s Conservation Teams work across the country to rehabilitate popular climbing areas and build sustainable recreation infrastructure that minimizes environmental impact. These efforts require dedicated volunteers and professionals to spend extended periods in backcountry environments where reliable nutrition can be challenging to maintain.

“Access Fund’s volunteers and conservation teams often spend long days in remote areas building trails, restoring climbing areas, and ensuring these landscapes remain accessible for future generations,” said Deed Ziegler, founder and CEO of RecPak. “Having complete, convenient nutrition allows them to focus on the mission at hand – protecting the places that mean everything to our outdoor community.”

The partnership will support Access Fund’s conservation initiatives and volunteer programs, providing RecPak’s lightweight, complete meal solutions to fuel the organization’s stewardship efforts. RecPak’s 700-calorie instant meals, designed by top sports nutritionists specifically for demanding outdoor conditions, offer the perfect solution for conservation teams working in remote climbing areas where space, weight, and preparation time are at a premium.

“Access Fund understands that protecting these places isn’t just about preserving rock and trails,  it’s about safeguarding the experiences that transform people and build character,” added Ziegler. “When their teams are out there doing the hard work of conservation, they deserve nutrition that works as hard as they do. We’re honored to support the people who ensure these incredible landscapes remain accessible for climbers and outdoor professionals for generations to come.”

Access Fund members will receive exclusive access to RecPak products through special member pricing. The partnership also supports RecPak’s broader mission of giving back to the outdoor community, building on the company’s existing commitments as a member of 1% For The Planet and their ongoing support for conservation efforts and veteran outdoor organizations.

Founded in 1991, Access Fund represents over 2.3 million climbers nationwide and has secured protections for more than 4 million acres of public land across the country. The organization’s work spans from Washington D.C. policy advocacy to hands-on conservation projects in iconic climbing destinations across America.

About RecPak RecPak provides nutritionally complete instant meals designed for outdoor adventurers and professionals who can’t afford to compromise on performance. RecPak combines the nutrition of a meal with the convenience of a snack, delivering 700 calories of complete nutrition in a lightweight, durable pouch that requires only water. Trusted by mountaineers, search and rescue professionals, and outdoor athletes worldwide, RecPak is committed to fueling peak performance while supporting conservation efforts. Learn more at www.recpak.co.

About Access Fund Access Fund is the national advocacy organization that leads and inspires the climbing community toward sustainable access and conservation of the climbing environment. Founded in 1991, Access Fund represents over 2.3 million climbers nationwide and works to keep climbing areas open while protecting the natural landscapes that make climbing possible. Learn more at www.accessfund.org.