Inspiring Connections Outdoors

Inspiring Connections Outdoors

Inspiring Connections Outdoors

Inspiring Connections Outdoors (ICO) is a Chapter Outings program of Sierra Club. ICO contributes to the creation of outdoor equity by connecting youth with limited access to the outdoors through outings that promote wellness, connection & leadership. 


Our 45 volunteer-run ICO groups nationwide conduct more than 900 outings for approximately 14,000 participants each year.

About Our Program

ICO volunteers receive training to plan & lead inclusive affirming outings co-created with local youth partners. Opportunities to contribute are many. Find ways to get involved by connecting with your local ICO group.

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Donate to Inspiring Connections Outdoors

We facilitate more than 900 outings with approximately 14,000 youth each year, helping participants connect to and advocate for nature.

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Sierra Club's Inspiring Connections Outdoors (ICO) program aims to expand access to nature for more youth!

February 8, 2023

LANSING, MICHIGAN – Today, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the “Nature Awaits” program, which would grant every Michigan fourth grader a free field trip to a state park. The governor’s recent budget allocated $4 million to the program,…

January 26, 2023

Next week, Detroit Outdoors is hosting and facilitating a virtual panel discussion featuring Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) athletes and advocates to share their experiences and advice about engaging in outdoor recreation. Join us for a…

September 23, 2022

The Sierra Club celebrates with the White House the signing of the “United States Government Interagency Memorandum of Understanding on Promoting Equitable Access to Nature in Nature-Deprived Communities” by 10 Federal departments and agencies.

August 26, 2022

On Tuesday, the City of Philadelphia began clear-cutting trees at FDR Park’s South Philly Meadows despite residents using the area at the time and strong community resistance to the project.

August 2, 2022

Yesterday, the Outdoors Alliance for Kids recognized Rep. Katie Porter of California’s 45th district for her leadership in connecting kids to the outdoors.