REI Outdoor School

Now in its third year, REI's Outdoor School offers educational outings and classes to build skills and confidence for recreating outdoors throughout the year. Our experienced, professional instructors are committed to sharing their enthusiasm and knowledge with participants of all interest levels and abilities.

REI Outdoor School provides equipment and transportation to local parks, while participants bring any necessary personal items and a desire to learn. In-store classes, one-day outings and overnight courses are offered in a wide range of interests to anyone wishing to learn a new activity or brush up on existing skills. Available courses include mountain biking, rock climbing, road cycling, kayaking, hiking, family outings, outdoor photography, navigation and more. REI Outdoor School is not part of the co-op's outreach and philanthropic efforts. A nominal fee is charged, with REI co-op members receiving discounts.

Highlights

In 2008, REI Outdoor School operated out of 38 retail stores, and collectively the offerings educated 10,945 participants, up 15 percent from 2007. This gain is attributed to a full year of operations in Los Angeles and San Diego, versus six months of operation in 2007. Additionally, Outdoor School offerings were added to REI retail stores in West Hartford, Reno and Stockton.

We also expanded our focus on diversity and inclusion by creating several online educational videos in Spanish and English. These complement REI's Outdoor School programs, and help increase our outreach to diverse populations.

Lastly, we grew REI's partnerships in 2008, including a significant contract with the State of California parks system to operate programs in 45 parks.

Challenges

In 2009 we chose to focus our growth in expanding content rich programs in existing markets and supporting store openings in New Jersey and California, rather than growing Outdoor School into new markets. Challenges within state budgets may also affect our ability to host future outings in state recreational areas.

Looking Ahead

To increase access to REI's Outdoor School programs among diverse populations, we will offer Spanish language programs in support of our Diversity in the Outdoors initiative throughout 2009. We are also partnering with local cities, businesses and organizations to get more people outside through private and group programs. Through new courses such as bike commuting and climbing, and because the Outdoor School provides a reasonably low cost alternative to getting outside, we are hopeful that Outdoor School offerings will increase in the coming year.