City Kids Recognized for Outstanding Leadership by Outdoor Alliance for Kids
In May, City Kids Wilderness Project took part in the annual OAK Week, a dedicated week of advocacy promoting youth engagement and outdoor equity, organized by the Outdoors Alliance for Kids (OAK). The Outdoors Alliance for Kids is a strategic partnership involving over 130 organizations sharing a commitment to equitable access to nature for children, youth, and families. This event serves as a crucial platform for bringing together organizations, policymakers, and youth leaders to discuss and advance initiatives that ensure all young people have the opportunity to experience and benefit from outdoor experiences.
Recognition and Awards
City Kids’ Executive Director, Sarah Cryder, was among the esteemed recipients of the 2024 OAK Leaf Awards. These awards honor organizations and leaders who have made significant contributions to connecting youth with nature. Sarah Cryder’s recognition underscores City Kids’ commitment to fostering meaningful, long-term engagement with young people through outdoor experiences.
In addition to the OAK Leaf Awards, youth leaders are celebrated with the OAK Acorn Awards, and policymakers receive the OAK Tree Awards. This year, Representative Brian Fitzpatrick and Representative Nanette Diaz Barragan were honored with OAK Tree Awards for their efforts on the Outdoors for All Act, a legislation aimed at enhancing outdoor recreation spaces in underinvested communities.
Engaging Discussions and Workshops
OAK Week took place at City Kids’ own Washington, D.C. home, the Josephine Butler Parks Center. The two-day event was packed with a variety of workshops and panel discussions, providing ample opportunities for networking and collaboration among attendees. One of the highlights was a panel discussion featuring Sarah Cryder alongside leaders from the National Park Service and the American Heart Association. The panel focused on the Every Kid Outdoors Act, and City Kids was able to shed light on its model of sustained engagement with youth, offering valuable insights into effective strategies for fostering a lifelong connection to nature.
Building a Community of Advocates
City Kids was deeply inspired by the community-building efforts showcased during OAK Week. The shared experiences and collaborative spirit of OAK Week emphasize the importance of continuous advocacy and action to bridge gaps in access to outdoor spaces. City Kids Wilderness Project looks forward to building on the momentum of OAK Week, continuing its mission to empower youth through transformative outdoor experiences.
