Background

All Out Adventures (AOA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and was founded in 2001 by two people with physical disabilities and two former Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) employees trained in outdoor recreation programs.  One of the Founders continues to serve on the Board of Directors.

 

Since our founding in 2001, we have paddled, hiked, skied, skated, camped, and more with thousands of people at hundreds of programs throughout Massachusetts.  Our programs are open to people of all ages, experience levels, and abilities. Most of our programs are either no cost to participants or are a very nominal fee.  As we break down the barriers to participation in outdoor recreation, we strive to ensure that cost is not a barrier.

Funding

All Out Adventures currently has two major contracts that provide for about 65% of our operating costs:

• Department of Conservation and Recreation's Universal Access Program:   Through this contract, we provide low or no cost activities to people with disabilities and their family and friends in state parks and forests throughout Massachusetts.

• Statewide Head Injury Program:  Through this contract, we provide 3 - 4 recreational programs throughout Massachusetts for people with brain injuries and their family and friends. 

The rest of our operating costs come from donations, private program fees, and grants.  Over 80% of every dollar raised directly supports our programming.

In the past year, we have received the following grants:

• $4,900 from the Community Foundation of Wester Massachusetts to fund an 8-week accessible cycling series on the Manhan Rail Trail in Easthampton
• $26,000 from the City of Easthampton through a Department of Housing and Community Development NA Community Development Block Grant
• $10,500 from The Tufts Health Plan Foundation to fund a 20-week cycling series for senior citizens
• $1,500 from The United Bank Foundation toward the purchase of an enclosed box trailer
• $10,500 from the Paul and Vivian Olum Foundation for operating expenses