
OIC Youth Committee
Our Charter
Vision
The Outdoor Inclusion Coalition’s Youth Committee’s efforts transform Pittsburgh’s relationship with its youth and the environment, by way of collaboration and ownership within the space of outdoor appreciation, engagement, and advocacy.
Mission
To collaboratively and intentionally grow and deepen Pittsburgh’s youth participation in the outdoor recreation and advocacy community with a keen focus on equitable industry access, inclusive development, and direct ownership of said participation.
Core Values
Collaboration – We work together, using the resources and initiative that each organization brings to the table.
Inclusion – We create an open and diverse space for all who want to participate to feel welcome and included.
Equity – We recognize that equity takes effort, planning, and commitment, and that traditional systems may need to be reevaluated to meet the needs of modern society.
Ownership – We encourage the direct participation of the youths in mind, so that this committee is led by peers and not advisors.
Objectives
1. Establish and maintain a useful information center, which portrays the landscape and provides resources and tools to increase learning and participation.
2. Seek viable funding to assist our efforts of collaboration and inclusive practices.
3. Host an annual signature event to highlight opportunities for youth within the outdoor industry.
4. Directly and regularly connect with youth community members to maintain a meaningful pulse on our most important stakeholders.
Our Partners
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Youth + Family Programs - ASCEND's youth programs are designed to grow strong minds and bodies in our region's youth. No matter a child's age or level of experience, we've got a program for you!
Affinity Sessions- FREE monthly climbing sessions dedicated to individuals who haven't always had equal access to or treatment within the sport. Rotating sessions between BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) and QFTW (Queer, Femme, Trans, Women).
Financial Assistance- There are multiple barriers to climbing, outdoor recreation, and outdoor spaces in general. Just one of those barriers is the cost. Assistance widely available for memberships, day passes, and all programs including summer camps, outdoor trips, climbing classes, and more!
Adaptive Climbing- As a space that fosters community & belonging, our goal is to provide accessible climbing for people of all abilities. While anyone is welcome to come to the facility at any time (including your service dog), we'd be happy to schedule you with a staff member to make sure you get the most out of your visit to ASCEND. We also host adaptive community events!
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Upcoming Events
June 19
10-11:30 AM
Pittsburgh Park’s Conservancy Black Power Story-time
Frick Environmental Center
Pittsburgh, PA