Rethink Outside helps funders and partners share a more powerful story about how nature and time outside strengthens our communities.

We develop, test, and share narrative frameworks and stories that bring new partners to the table and grow the movement for equitable access to the outdoors.

Narrative in Action

Tale of Two Community Schoolyard Projects: From Chiloquin to Tacoma

This story highlights a successful private-public partnership, working at the intersections of outdoor access, education, health, and equity.

Breaking Down Barriers

Through Rippleffect, students experience the power of the outdoors.

Connecting Military Families and the Outdoors

Nicole Rawlinson, 2021 Rethink Outside™ Fellow, works to connect military families with the outdoors and their communities.

Growing Healthy Communities in School Gardens During COVID-19

As an unusual school year ends and uncertainty remains about the one ahead, school gardens offer opportunity for healing and emotional connection on the long path to recovery.

On the Rio Verde

This lyrical essay is based on Rethink Outside™ Storyteller Leeanna Torres’ experience on the Green River in 2021, through the generosity of FreeFlow Institute and American Rivers.

Thanks to our sponsors for financially supporting Rethink Outside

Rethink Outside photos courtesy of Big City Mountaineers, Children & Nature Network, Education Outside, Life Lab, Lincoln Park Zoo, NatureBridge, National Park Service, National Park Trust, Ocean Discovery Institute, Pie Ranch, Tiny Trees, and YES. Website by Weirdesign.com.

© 2026 Blue Sky Funders Forum. All rights reserved.