Increasing Access to Outdoor Activities for People of Color & Intersecting Communities in Rural Communities Across Western Montana

Serving communities of color one adventure at a time.

Here Montana provides outdoor adventures to People of Color and intersecting communities. Participants experience backpacking, rafting, skiing, climbing, and more throughout Montana’s rural communities.

  • Connect and empower BIPOC individuals in Montana by centering joy, education, and community. We break down barriers, foster inclusivity, and create meaningful connections between BIPOC communities and Montana's natural wonders. Through our efforts, we share a love for the outdoors, promote environmental stewardship, and enhance well-being.

  • Increased representation for People of Color and intersecting communities among leadership and participation in outdoor communities. We envision improved access to opportunities for connection, fun, and healing that nature can provide.

  • Joy

    We ensure a safe space where People of Color experience joy by accessing opportunities for enhanced mental, physical, and spiritual health that the outdoors provide.

    Community

    We create a space that embraces intersectionality and allows People of Color to come together and enjoy the outdoors.

    Education

    We educate participants on all the how-to's for being outside. We teach outdoor leadership and skills to be informed, confident, and safe when recreating.

    Engagement

    We encourage everyone to participate in conversations and work that nurtures and advocates for bettering and protecting our natural environment as the climate changes.

Removing Barriers

Here Montana aims to address the noticeably absent representation of People of Color in the outdoor recreation industry by removing barriers to participation.

Our outings provide participants with:

  • Access to Outdoor Gear

  • Instruction From Certified Industry Leaders

  • Mentorship

  • Confidence-Building Opportunities in Safe Spaces

  • Mental Health Awareness Through the Outdoors

  • Connection to Community and Networking

  • And More!

Creating Connection

  • 50+ Adventures

  • 300+ Lives Changed

  • 10+ Partnerships

  • 10+ Outdoor Locations

  • 9+ Recreation Activities

In The News

  • Grist, 5/3/22

    Read here.

  • KPAX, 2/21/23

    Read here.

  • Outside Magazine, 7/19/23

    Read here.

  • Missoulian, 5/28/22

    Read here.

  • Melanin Base Camp, 10/24/21

    Read here.

  • Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation, 8/2/21

    Read here.

  • Missoulian, 2/14/21

    Read here.

Our Sponsors & Partners

Trusted & Endorsed By Community Leaders

  • REI

  • Patagonia

  • U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service

  • Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation

  • All Nations Health Center

  • Lululemon

  • Five Valleys Land Trust

  • Great Burn Conservation Alliance

  • Spotted Dog Cycles

  • Empower Montana

  • Freestone Climbing

  • Selway Bitteroot Frank Chuch Foundation

  • Montana Cyclocross

  • Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

  • Missoula Parks and Recreation

  • Trust For Public Lands

  • YWCA Missoula

  • Love Boat Paddle

  • Golden Yolk Griddle

  • National Forest Foundation

  • Soft Landing Missoula

FAQs

I am not a person of color. Can I participate?

Our recreation activities and events are prioritized for communities of color. If space allows, we welcome our broader community.

What does Here Montana need help with?

Here Montana is always accepting donations. If you'd like to donate your time, reach out to inquire about volunteer opportunities.

What age groups can participate?

We work with people of color that are 14+ years of age. If you are under the age of 18, we will need a permission form signed by your parent or guardian.

Who is Here Montana's fiscal sponsor?

Here Montana is fiscally sponsored by EmpowerMT.