Outside the City
Backpackers crossing an alpine ridge at sunrise

First hikes. First paddles.
Second chances.

We take formerly gang-involved young adults and at-risk youth into the wild — every trip free, structured, and a turning point.

01Mission

Adventure.
Healing.
Second chances.

For many of our participants, it's their first hike. Their first bike ride on a trail. Their first night sleeping in a tent under stars.

These experiences are not recreational outings — they are structured, purpose-driven programs designed to interrupt old patterns and write new ones. We pair guided outdoor adventures with mentorship, leadership development, and workforce reintegration. Every program is free for participants, every time.

Free, structured outdoor adventures for formerly gang-involved young adults and at-risk youth — fostering healing, resilience, and second chances through nature.

STAT · 01
500+
Youth & adults served since 2023
STAT · 02
100%
Free for every participant
STAT · 03
3
SoCal counties served
STAT · 04
501(c)(3)
Nonprofit, Teen Health Inc.
03Values

Why we don't run
recreational outings.

Four non-negotiables that show up on every trip we run.

VALUE · 01

Adventure as Medicine

We don't run recreational outings. Every trip is purpose-built — designed to interrupt old patterns and write new neural pathways through movement, novelty, and trust.

VALUE · 02

First-Time Everythings

For most participants, this is their first hike. First paddle. First night under stars. We protect that 'first' with skilled guides, real gear, and zero cost.

VALUE · 03

Show Up. Walk Together.

Healing is not a program — it's a relationship. We pair participants with volunteers, mentors, and peers who keep showing up, mile after mile.

VALUE · 04

Measure What Matters

Partners get clear reporting on outcomes. Donors get receipts and stories. Participants get something harder to measure but easier to feel.

FIELD NOTE

“When you walk beside someone on a trail, share a conversation at a campsite, or paddle together across open water — you become part of their healing story.”

Scott Swift · Founder

04Backed By

Brands creating
measurable impact.

Our corporate partners get clear reporting, real stories, and a CSR program their employees actually want to talk about.

Partner With Us
  • 01
    Orgain
    Clean nutrition fueling participants on the trail and water.
  • 02
    Patagonia Employees Foundation
    Backing community programs that put people back in nature.
  • 03
    The Mountain Rooms
    Lodging partner for retreats and overnight trips.
  • 04
    Outbound Brands
    Gear, apparel, and outdoor expertise.
  • 05
    Carlson Craft
    Print and design partner for community programs.