“For more than a decade, Hispanic Access has worked to ensure Latino communities have the opportunity to enjoy and shape the future of our natural resources,” said Maite Arce, President and Founder of Hispanic Access Foundation. “This support from the REI Cooperative Action Fund will help us expand our network and elevate Latino voices in conservation.”

Latinos are among the nation’s most passionate advocates for protecting public lands and waters, transitioning to renewable energy, and ensuring access to outdoor recreation and green jobs. As the largest untapped segment of the outdoor community, Latinos have the potential to transform conservation policy and practice in the U.S. Hispanic Access is committed to making sure that potential is realized by ensuring Latino communities are informed, equipped, and represented at the decision-making table.

In the coming year, Hispanic Access plans to grow its Conservation Network by 300 new members, create 3,000 touchpoints to connect local leaders with advocacy opportunities, and advance policies that support clean air and water, climate justice, and equitable access to public lands.

The REI Cooperative Action Fund supports nonprofits doing the essential work in making the outdoors more accessible and inclusive for everyone. The REI Fund announces new grants each year in the spring and the fall to grantees across three grant initiatives: Connecting People Outside, Creating Space Outside and Centering Health Outside.

For more information, visit www.hispanicaccess.org and www.reifund.org.