Outdoor Journey Fund
We believe the outdoors is for everyone.
The Outdoor Journey Fund connects communities with joyful outdoor experiences through the Appalachian Mountain Club. Nonprofits can apply to receive tailored support for getting their constituents outdoors, including:
- Customized, meaningful adventures at little to no cost
- Access to AMC lodging and/or campgrounds
- Free equipment rentals from AMC’s gear libraries*
- Guided experiences led by AMC’s top-notch outdoor professionals
We respect our partners' deep relationships within their community and their knowledge about what outdoor experience will work best for them. Each Outdoor Journey Fund experience is thoughtfully crafted and designed to fit your group’s goals and needs.
*Gear loans are available on a first come, first serve basis. Please indicate your interest in gear on your application.
Empower Your Nonprofit with Unforgettable Adventure
Are you with a nonprofit seeking to bring a group of community members into the outdoors? Submit a request for sponsorship through the Outdoor Journey Fund today.
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"The majority of our participants were students from communities and backgrounds historically underrepresented in outdoor spaces. Many had never slept in the woods, hiked a mountain trail, or crossed a river. [...] [The Outdoor Journey Fund] helped create access to a world that has too often excluded the very young people who need it most. You made it possible for our students to see themselves as explorers, environmental stewards, and leaders."
- Mary Vieira, The Met East Bay School -
“My heart is full after a mighty and successful trip into the alpine zone with a group of high school students after our stay at AMC’s Madison Springs Hut. I now have several teens wanting to work in the huts or run away to hike the Appalachian Trail—mission accomplished! Thanks again for providing this amazing opportunity.”
- Todd Papianou, Mountain Valley High School -
“Interacting with nature heals your mind, body, and soul, which is very important for our families. For most of the kids it was their first hike, and they just loved it. Doing outdoor group activities can challenge you sometimes, push you out of your comfort zone, but on another hand provide you with a sense of purpose.”
- Building Community in New Hampshire Participant -
"We received full funding to create a retreat for LGBTQIA+ people at Little Lyford in July of 2025 [...] and we couldn't have been more happy with the campus, the food, the support from staff, and the weather! We are deeply grateful for this experience--thank you for your support in making it happen!”
- Kyle Warnock, QueerlyME
About the Fund
We believe that connecting people to the outdoors inspires them to protect the places they love. But many communities face barriers to outdoor access.
Supported by gifts from generous corporate and individual donors, AMC’s Outdoor Journey Fund aims to foster opportunities in the outdoors by awarding annual grants of up to $5,000 for nonprofit organizations that serve such communities.
By funding lodging, programming, gear lending, and transportation, it is our hope to work toward a future where the outdoors is protected and enjoyed by all.
Apply for Funding
Recent Beneficiaries
In 2025, the Outdoor Journey Fund enabled AMC to sponsor 109 trips servicing 71 different groups and 1,896 individuals including:
Support for the Outdoor Journey Fund
The Outdoor Journey Fund was seeded with generous support from L.L. Bean. If your company or organization would like to ensure that the this fund remains a resource for years to come, please email Jennifer Norris, AMC’s Chief Development Officer, at [email protected].
If you are an individual who would like to directly support the Outdoor Journey Fund, you can do so by clicking the button below.
Donate to the Outdoor Journey Fund
