ELSO, Inc.
Mission
Our mission is to teach and frame STEAM and nature-based education through a lens that centers and elevates the stories, ways of knowing, individual needs, and lived experiences of Black and Brown communities.
Bottom Line for Portland
ELSO, Inc. is a nationally recognized Black and Female-led organization that creates innovative Liberatory Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, Environment, and Design (STEAMED) education programs, paid internships, and career development that provide Black and Brown youth from K-adulthood unique opportunities to Experience Life Science Outdoors. Your gift to ELSO Inc. is critical to the success of our programs: Wayfinders Day Camp, Tappin' Roots Black Nature Educators Internship, and Studio Justice Design Program. This year, ELSO's involvement in the Portland Vancouver Canopy Collective is our latest workforce development program - creating jobs for college students in PSU's Indigenous Traditional Knowledge Program.
Quote
“My daughter’s internship with ELSO‘s Tappin Roots program gave her exceptional leadership experience and developed her passion for pursuing a STEM-related career.” Tappin Root’s Mom
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
As a Black-led/founded organization, our JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) mindset is a part of everything we do, including our work with youth, communities, organizations, and partners. Our organization is committed to racial equity, offering Black and Brown communities authentic opportunities to elevate their needs, identify assets and barriers, and take on leadership roles at all levels.
Partner(s)
ELSO is thrilled to partner with Adidas - we work with Adidas programmatically and love Adidas gear for all our fun and outdoor activities!
ELSO, Inc. is in the Environment category which is sponsored by A to Z Wineworks.
They're a medium-sized organization with activities in Clackamas Co., Multnomah Co. and Washington Co.