Nosotros En Naturaleza (NEN) was founded in early 2024 with one mission: to connect Latinx and BIPOC youth in King County to the transformative power of nature. We work to remove as many barriers as possible to outdoor exploration by providing free transportation, gear, food, guided experiences, and mentorship—fostering a sense of belonging and community for Nosotros (us) in outdoor spaces.

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Meet Jesús!

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My journey into the outdoors isn’t just about chasing beautiful views— though I’ll admit, a good hike and an Instagram-worthy photo never hurt. Like many who join us, that's how it started for me, along with always being deeply connected to my work with youth and young adults from underserved communities.

For years, I’ve been mentoring and guiding young people who, like me, have faced challenges that often made the outdoors feel out of reach.

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As an undocumented DACA recipient, I never imagined I’d one day be exploring some of the country’s largest national parks, or reconnecting with my roots in Mexico after 20 years through nature. Those experiences showed me what’s possible, and through NEN, I want to pass that same spirit on—to remind our community that anything is possible, and that the outdoors truly belongs to us.

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Growing up, I rarely saw people who looked like me on trails or in outdoor programs. Hiking always felt like something “for the wealthy”—and in many ways, it still is. Transportation, gear, park passes, even just the knowledge of where to go can all be barriers. Most outdoor programs I encountered in my nonprofit work lacked diversity, and summer opportunities were limited by cost.

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I wanted to change that, and decided to build something that reflected my people, my community, and our experiences—something that felt welcoming and right.

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When a Hike Becomes More

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With NEN, a hike is never just a hike. Every outing is designed to be a full experience:

• A welcoming opening circle
  
  
• Conversations that build real connections (and continue afterwards)
  
  
• Learning about the land and Leave No Trace principles
  
  
• Sharing snacks that reflect our cultures
  
  
• And yes, always a post-hike meal (because besides water, what else is life?)

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From sunscreen and bug spray to donated Sawyer water filters, we provide the tools to help participants feel prepared, comfortable, and welcomed—things they might not otherwise have access to–and of course we teach our participants how to use these tools properly.

And I’ll be the first to admit, I’m still learning too! Just the other day, I saw a bear canister for the first time and thought, “So it’s just a giant Tupperware?”

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Rooted in Community

After living in Kent (South King County) for over 20 years, I’ve seen firsthand how access to green spaces—and opportunities in general—change drastically just 20–30 miles away. Climate justice and environmental education weren’t things I grew up learning; they were things I had to seek out for myself.

That’s why this work matters so much. By creating partnerships with companies and organizations that share our values, NEN is helping youth build knowledge, confidence, and a love for nature.

Our participants aren’t just exploring trails—they’re becoming future advocates and protectors of our natural world.

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Today, we’ve impacted more than 300 participants through 70+ outings—everything from first hikes to mountain biking, kayaking, snowshoeing, and even nature-themed art events.

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Through NEN, young adults have built leadership skills, professional development experience, and the confidence to explore nature on their own. They’ve learned to filter water, use bear spray, and practice Leave No Trace principles—all skills that make the outdoors safer and more accessible.

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Stories from the Trail

One of my favorite outings was a trip to Mount Storm King on the Olympic Peninsula. For many participants, it was their first time on a ferry—a whole adventure in itself. By the time we reached the summit, the view left everyone in awe. Some had only seen the scenery on Instagram, and the real thing was far beyond what they imagined. Moments like those make the work worthwhile.

And at the heart of it all is a simple principle: nobody gets left behind. Nosotros means “us,” not “me” or “I.” We move forward together, always.

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Participant Voices

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“From the moment I joined my first NEN event, I knew I had found my community. Meeting everyone felt so natural, and it’s been amazing connecting with people who love the outdoors as much as I do.” – Priscilla (Summer 2025)

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“After being thousands of miles away from home, it has been amazing to reconnect with my community in such a meaningful way. NEN has given me the space to build friendships, share stories, and create memories.” – Jesica (Summer 2025)

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Looking Ahead

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NEN is still growing, and so am I. Every hike, every shared meal, every new experience teaches me something new. I may not be a traditional outdoor expert, but I believe lived experience is the most powerful expertise we can share.

We invite anyone who wants to be part of this journey to join us. Follow along on Instagram @nosotrosennaturaleza and come see what “Nosotros” can do—together!

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