For the fourth year in a row, OARS is partnering with Bay Area-based Justice Outside to support their effort to bring equity and justice to the outdoors and elevate the voices and leadership of Black, Indigenous and People of Color. OARS will donate $5 to Justice Outside for every person who rafts the South Fork of the American with them, Sunday through Friday in July. The partnership reflects OARS’s continued commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility within the outdoor adventure industry.

“Justice Outside is one of the leading organizations working to foster a sense of belonging and connection to the outdoors for diverse communities” says Steve Markle (he/him), vice president of sales and marketing for OARS. “We hope this partnership underscores the importance of amplifying diverse voices and perspectives within outdoor recreation.”

Justice Outside’s advocacy aligns with OARS’s values of social responsibility and a commitment to diversity. For all guests and staff, OARS hopes to offer access to a more inclusive outdoors where everyone feels welcome and empowered to explore nature’s wonders.

Throughout the last three years, OARS has raised over $12,000 for Justice Outside and supported the organization’s first Cultivating Community Outdoors Conference. In addition to the company’s support for Justice Outside, OARS has also raised funds for the Sacramento LGBT Community Center as well as over a dozen conservation organizations. See a full list of the company’s 2023 donations here.

About Justice Outside:
Justice Outside focuses on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within outdoor recreation by advocating for accessible and inclusive outdoor spaces. They work to dismantle barriers that prevent marginalized communities from enjoying,benefiting from and leading outdoor activities, aiming to create a more representative and welcoming environment in the outdoors. Their efforts are crucial because they address systemic inequities, broaden access to nature, and ensure that everyone, regardless of background, can participate in and steward our natural environment.