Our Approach
About Us
DEI Outdoors specializes in partnering with organizations to address equity and justice issues in the conservation, outdoor recreation, and natural resources industry. We aim to foster a sense of belonging and inclusion in outdoor spaces for individuals of all backgrounds. Founded by Rachel Hailey, DEI Outdoors serves outdoor organizations by ensuring their programming, products, and people are inclusive and support a spectrum of diverse identities. We provide services for both organizations and individuals seeking to increase belonging in the outdoors. We inspire industry leaders through one-on-one and group facilitation programs and generate collaborative systems that shift the norm of the outdoor industry through committed action.
“From backpacks to boardrooms, representation matters.”
~Rachel Hailey, Founder & Transformationalist of DEI Outdoors
DEI Outdoors' approach is rooted in compassion, discovery, connection, action, and inclusion. At DEI Outdoors, we believe that DEI work is culture work and that true inclusivity requires transforming organizational culture to allow all to feel secure in showing their authentic selves. To do this, we become your partner in transformation, supporting and empowering your team to create long-lasting change beyond the scope of our work together.
Mission
Our mission is to foster belonging in outdoor spaces so that anyone can experience, thrive, and lead, no matter their circumstances. We aim to make the outdoor industry diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible to people of all backgrounds and empower historically marginalized people to become leaders in outdoor spaces.
Vision
Our vision is to collectively transform, liberate, and rebuild the outdoor industry, fostering a collaborative, driven by empowered transformation partners who continuously explore, connect, and act to dismantle barriers and cultivate a thriving, diverse outdoor community for all.
Values
Compassion
At DEI Outdoors, compassion forms the foundation of our work. We approach every interaction with empathy and understanding, recognizing the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals and organizations in the conservation and outdoor industry. Through compassion, we strive to create a supportive environment where everyone feels heard and valued.
Discovery
We value the spirit of exploration and continual learning. In the pursuit of diversity, equity, and inclusion, we encourage discovery—exploring new perspectives, uncovering untold stories, and fostering a culture of curiosity. By embracing discovery, we aim to challenge assumptions and broaden the understanding of the diverse identities present in outdoor spaces.
Connection
Connection is at the heart of our mission. We believe in building authentic relationships between individuals, organizations, and the communities they serve. By facilitating connections between individuals, organizations, and the broader community, we seek to create a collaborative and supportive network.
Action
At DEI Outdoors, we focus on turning vision into action to drive meaningful change. We work in collaboration with organizations to help them turn their insights and awareness into practical, impactful steps. Our emphasis on action ensures that our work goes beyond discussion and theory and holds organizations accountable to follow through on their promises.
Inclusion
Inclusion is not just a goal for us; it is a guiding principle. We advocate for the active and intentional inclusion of individuals from all backgrounds in outdoor spaces. Our commitment to inclusion extends to our approach, services, and partnerships.
Why do diversity, equity, & inclusion work?
Though each organization we work with has a myriad of goals, our work centers on helping organizations achieve the following:
Foster Authentic Inclusion and Belonging
We empower organizations to create environments where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, respected, and secure in expressing their authentic selves, leading to a sense of belonging and unity within the community.
Cultivate a Diverse and Inclusive Culture
We guide organizations in embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive culture that celebrates differences, promotes equity, and encourages collaboration among team members, resulting in enriched perspectives and meaningful relationships.
Promote Cultural Awareness and Understanding
We equip organizations with the tools to enhance cultural awareness, encourage open dialogue, and facilitate a deeper understanding of various perspectives, contributing to a more empathetic and harmonious work environment.
Empower Inclusive Leadership and Allyship
We develop leaders who are dedicated to fostering inclusivity and acting as allies, empowering them to lead by example, mentor others, and actively contribute to an atmosphere of trust, respect, and support.
Boost Productivity and Innovation
We implement strategies that encourage diversity of thought and create an inclusive environment, leading to increased creativity, innovation, and problem-solving, which in turn drives organizational growth.
Enhance Recruitment and Retention
We assist organizations in attracting and retaining a diverse talent pool, thereby reducing turnover rates, lowering recruitment costs, and ensuring a committed and engaged workforce.
Strengthen Brand Reputation and Market Position
We help organizations build a reputation as champions of diversity and inclusion, enhancing their market position and attracting a wider customer base that values socially responsible companies.
Drive Economic Growth and Industry Influence
We enable organizations to contribute positively to their local economic communities by tapping into underserved markets, expanding their reach, and positioning themselves as thought leaders, thereby driving financial success and industry-wide impact.
“If not us, then who? If not now, then when?”