Growing up, I spent many happy days on the river or picking cherries on my family’s property in Eastern Washington. I was part of a Camp Fire troop that regularly hiked, and I looked forward to camp every summer. Even teenage Camille was happy to leave her devices at home to be a camp counselor!

The family and community members who introduced me to these opportunities taught me that time outdoors is about more than recreation. It’s where we find community, build confidence, develop leadership, and create lasting memories. It’s where we learn gratitude for the many gifts of nature and for our relationships with each other.

Those experiences have stayed with me and shaped my belief that everyone should have meaningful opportunities to connect with nature and community. That is one of the reasons I’m proud to raise funds for Outdoor Afro this Black Philanthropy Month. Your support helps create more opportunities for Black people to connect with lands, water, and wildlife in community and to experience the belonging, joy, and connection that can grow around the campfire and far beyond it.