Author: Courtney Schultz

Panelist // April 3, 2025 // Online

Discover how we can break down barriers and inspire connection to nature for communities often left out of traditional outdoor spaces. This engaging panel features Jessica Carrillo Alatorre (Bring it Outside program), Heather West (LOOP NOLA), and Joe Stone (Dovetail Trails Consulting), who will share their experiences and insights on empowering marginalized communities, including young kids, adaptive programming,, rural and urban residents, Latine, immigrant, refugee, and BIPOC families.

Explore how outdoor engagement doesn’t always mean epic hikes or far-flung adventures—sometimes, it starts with a simple visit through a neighborhood park. Join us to learn how we can redefine what it means to enjoy the outdoors and make nature accessible for all.

For more information visit: https://mms.aore.org/Calendar/moreinfo.php?eventid=53347

Presenter// May 15, 2025 // Minneapolis, MN

Rethinking Nature Access: Equity, universal design, and the future of public green spaces

Nature profoundly impacts community health, yet access remains unequal. This session explores innovative strategies for making greenspaces and nature programming inclusive, moving beyond ADA compliance to address varied identities and needs.

By applying universal design and systems change thinking, participants will discover approaches to expand nature access for children, families, and our broader communities. Interactive breakout groups will allow attendees to assess growth areas within their own programs and receive tailored feedback from the presenter and each other. Participants will leave with practical insights and tools to ensure that their spaces and programs serve as truly inclusive activities and resources that support the health and well-being of all community members.

This is a Level Two presentation for those who have a basic understanding of the topic and are ready to dig deeper.

Panelist // June 5, 2025 // Online

Building strong, inclusive outdoor communities doesn’t have to start in the backcountry. From college campuses to local parks, there are countless opportunities to foster meaningful connections in non-traditional outdoor spaces. This session will explore innovative strategies for creating welcoming outdoor experiences that engage diverse participants, encourage long-term involvement, and strengthen social bonds.

Join Steve Sassaman (Arizona State University) and Courtney Schultz, PhD (Outgrown) as they share creative approaches to community-building, including programming ideas, partnership opportunities, and engagement tactics designed for urban and campus-based outdoor recreation. Whether you’re looking to revamp your existing programs or start fresh, this session will provide inspiration and practical tools to help you cultivate connection in the outdoors—wherever that may be.

For more information visit: https://mms.aore.org/Calendar/moreinfo.php?eventid=55863

Presenter // November 19, 2024 // New Orleans, LA

HTP in partnership with OutGrown will be presenting: “Making the Case for Overcoming the Baby Nature Gap in Outdoor Recreation: Ensuring Families Grow Together in Nature”

For more information visit: https://aore.org/outdoorprofessionalconference.php

Presenter // December 5, 2024 // Sunriver, OR

HTP will be presenting on “Overcoming the Baby Nature Gap in Outdoor Recreation: A Playbook for Innovative Collaborations”

For more information visit: https://industry.traveloregon.com/events/2024-oregon-outdoor-recreation-summit-2/

Presentation // July 19, 2024 // Waukesha, WI

HTP will be presenting on the role of conservation in providing spaces for health and wellbeing.

Workshop Presenter // June 17 // Middleton WI

HTP will be presenting a workshop looking at “Diversity, Inclusion, & Accessibility: Reconciling Nature’s Impact on Health to Improve Your Program“

Presentation // May 28-31, 2024 // Madison, WI

HTP is part of an upcoming presentation: “Cultivating Roots: Bridging the Baby Nature Gap for a Thriving Future.”

For more information visit: https://www.childrenandnature.org/conference/about/

Keynote Speaker // May 1, 2024 // Poconos, PA

Dr. Schultz will present a keynote address on the challenges and opportunities to make state parks more accessible for all visitors.

Facilitator // March 27, 2024 // Virtual Webinar

HTP is excited to highlight the latest research connecting time outside and tangible health benefits like easing anxiety, lowering blood pressure, and disease prevention. Then, we’ll be joined by a multi-generational group of activists, nonprofit leaders, and scientists working to ensure that access to the outdoors and these benefits are seen as a basic human right, and not as a “nice to have.” Speakers include: Dr. Jylana Sheats, Sage Palmed, Heather White, and Akiima Price.

For more information visit: https://lnkd.in/ecD6D4sS