Why it matters: changing the narrative.

• Because outdoor programs bring great benefit to society but are often perceived as high risk.
• Because outdoors programs are considered  “just for fun,” or a “luxury” as opposed to recognized to their full value.
• Because outdoor programs are chronically underfunded and under-supported.
• Because insurance premiums are disproportionately high.
• Because accepted practices are not widely embraced and can lead to unnecessary accidents and tragedies.
• Because outdoor programs often operate “in silos”, we sometimes miss the benefit of collaboration, which can make us more vulnerable.

By bringing people outside and connecting with the land we live on, outdoor programs do an invaluable service to Canadian society. However, the full value of the contributions and benefits these programs provide are not yet widely recognized in the mainstream.

Change is afoot.

The Canadian Outdoor Summit represents a significant step forward as it relates to galvanizing a national outdoor community and beginning to create a Canada where connection through nature is an everyday reality for the average Canadian. The national outdoor community is an essential agent of this change.

The achievement of this goal and an upward growth trend in Led Outdoor Activities would mean an increase in clientele, funding, and support for outdoor programs — in other words, a “rising tide that would float all boats.”

The Canadian Outdoor Summit is an epic, national, historic project aimed at creating a reality where outdoor programs can thrive and be appreciated for their true worth. We are inviting you to excitedly co-create the Summit.