Vamos Outdoors Project

Overview

The Vamos Outdoors Project is a United States-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering developmental justice for Latine youth through outdoor and academic programs. The organization primarily serves Latine, migrant, multilingual, and newcomer youth and families in Whatcom and Skagit counties.

Mission and Programs

Vamos Outdoors Project's mission is "Building Community Through Connection to the Land and Access to the Outdoors." It focuses on providing opportunities for youth to engage in outdoor activities, such as mountain biking on Galbraith Mountain, backpacking, rock climbing, snowboarding, and swimming. These programs aim to promote healthy habits, social-emotional learning, and positive childhood experiences while connecting families with essential resources for stability and growth within their communities.

The organization ensures that all its programs are free, covering costs such as meals, transportation, and necessary equipment through community partnerships. In addition to outdoor activities, Vamos Outdoors Project offers literacy programs in both English and Spanish, emphasizing the importance of retaining Spanish language skills among participants.

Community Impact and Partnerships

Vamos collaborates with several organizations to ensure equitable access to outdoor spaces. Notable partnerships include the Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition, which provides bikes and helmets for participants, and the Whatcom Land Trust, which helps secure public access to trails like those on Galbraith Mountain.

Governance and Funding

As a non-hierarchical organization, Vamos ensures that all staff members receive a living wage and have equal input in shaping the organization's vision. The nonprofit's revenue primarily comes from contributions and program services, with significant support from grants and fundraising events. Key leadership includes Andy Basabe, who initially conceptualized the nonprofit, and other dedicated staff who work to maintain and expand its community-focused initiatives.

Historical Background and Growth

The idea for Vamos Outdoors Project began as an initiative by Andy Basabe to guide kids from underrepresented backgrounds on outdoor adventures. Recognizing the potential for broader impact, Basabe transitioned his efforts into a nonprofit model, allowing him to provide these opportunities at no cost to families. Since its inception, Vamos has grown significantly, employing a substantial team and serving hundreds of students annually.

[1] https://www.vamosoutdoorsproject.com [2] https://whatcomlandtrust.org/https-whatcomlandtrust-org-vamos-outdoor-project-trails-and-conservation-what-else-is-needed-to-build-access-and-community-by-andy-basabe/ [3] https://www.cascadiadaily.com/2022/aug/17/vamos-outdoors-project-brings-latine-community-outside/ [4] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/825321659 [5] https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/vamos-outdoors-project,825321659/