People of Color Outdoors

Mission

POCO serves all people of color and White parents of BIPOC children by creating healing outdoor experiences and educational opportunities that build connections with nature and community, and develop the next generation of environmental leaders.

Bottom Line

For many BIPOC individuals and families, and White parents raising children of color, experiences of racism and exclusion can overshadow the joy of exploring Oregon's beautiful natural spaces. At People of Color Outdoors (POCO), we're working to change that.We believe everyone deserves to experience the healing, wonder, and joy of nature, and to know they truly belong. Through outdoor adventures, environmental education, and a welcoming community, POCO helps children and adults build confidence, develop friendships, learn new skills, and discover a lifelong connection with the natural world.

Our programs create opportunities to:

Build belonging and community through welcoming outdoor experiences and meaningful relationships.

Inspire environmental stewardship by connecting people with nature and nurturing a desire to protect it.

Develop the next generation of environmental leaders through hands-on education, mentorship, and opportunities for young people to find their voices and lead.

Strengthen resilience and well-being through the physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits of nature.

At a time when many people of color face increasing hostility and uncertainty, our work is more important than ever. We offer young people something especially precious: hope. Hope that they belong, that their voices matter, and that they have the power to shape their own futures and help protect our planet.

Joy is not a luxury during difficult times. Joy is what sustains us. Through connection, education, and leadership opportunities, we're building a community grounded in hope, resilience, and possibility.

Our long-term vision is to acquire land and create a permanent sanctuary where wildlife can thrive, children can learn and lead, and families can find healing and belonging in nature.

Your gift helps us do more than bring people outdoors. It helps us nurture hope, cultivate environmental leaders, and build a future where communities of color belong, thrive, and lead.

Quote

“During these difficult times, hope is what gives us the courage to keep moving forward, the strength to imagine a better future, and the determination to help create it. When we give people - especially children - a reason to hope, we remind them that their lives matter, their voices have power, and their futures are filled with possibilities. When we create outings that bring them joy, we give them something that helps to sustain that hope.”

Pamela Slaughter, Founder, People of Color Outdoors

Incentives

Every donor will receive a 20% off voucher for a beer at Gorges Beer from February 1, 2027 - March 31, 2027. 

Pamela Slaughter or another POCO leader will lead a private nature education walk at one of several locations in Portland for your group of up to 10 individuals, to the first 20 contributors of $1000+.

The first 200 donors will receive a Columbia Sportswear Employee Pass to shop at the Employee store and receive high quality Columbia Sportswear at discounted prices. 

Every donor that contributes at least $25 will receive a handmade, frame-worthy quilling card as a thank you gift.

Partner(s)

Quilling Card is the card company we've chosen for our thank you cards to donors, and they gave us a discounted price to support our efforts. 

Trailkeepers of Oregon and POCO will host an event together.