Community-Based Grants and National Partnerships

When it comes to community-based grants and national partnerships, our goal is to support conservation programs that engage REI employees, members, families and individual volunteers in activities that involve direct care for shared public lands. These efforts complement our involvement with recreation nonprofits to increase participation in the outdoors.

REI's conservation activities, whether they involve protecting a shared trail or waterway, educating youth, or conserving natural climbing environments, are at the heart of the co-op. Accessible and safe recreational areas are critical for the long-term success of REI's business.

We seek to support conservation activities that relate to our members' interests, specifically their desire to care for outdoor spaces for their continued enjoyment. We also seek ways to educate youth on their important role in conservation. These efforts nurture the next generation of environmental stewards and outdoor enthusiasts.

Highlights

Similar to our recreation grants, many of the conservation grants begin with REI employee nominations. Of the $3.7 million distributed in 2008, REI made 350 grants to local nonprofit organizations, supported by employee nominations from the communities where they live, work and play. An additional 65 grants were made to organizations operating at the regional and national level. The common mission among these organizations is a commitment to conservation and recreation.

For information on specific nonprofits and efforts we supported in 2008, visit here.

Challenges

The continued uncertain economy has impacted the level of our philanthropic involvement in the communities where we do business. This means fewer dollars will be available to make grants in 2009 and the real possibility that we will not be able to maintain our current level of support with existing partnerships.

Looking Ahead

While fewer available grant dollars will present a challenge to maintaining the assistance we have provided in the past, it is also an opportunity to become more focused. Ultimately, this means targeting our giving in ways that have the greatest impact on promoting conservation and recreation.