Our Team
Meet the Staff
Ben McCue (He/Him)
Chris Munoz (He/Him)
Chris Santomero (He/Him)
DAVID FOSTER (HE/ANY)
GABRIELA MILLS (SHE/HER)
GABY JASSO (SHE/HER)
JASPER MILLS (ANY)
KELSEY WADMAN (SHE/HER)
KYLA KRAUSE (SHE/HER)
LUPE FLORES (SHE/HER/ELLA)
MATT SMITH (HE/HIM)
MICAH WULLSCHLEGER (HE/HIM)
MIKE KOWALSKI (HE/HIM)
MOLLY MORELLI (SHE/HER)
Noel Kendrick (She/Her)
Quinten Kirby (He/Him)
SALINA SANCHEZ (SHE/HER)
SANTOS PLAZA (HE/HIM)
STEFANIE LEHNER (SHE/HER)
SUNNY CHANG (SHE/HER)
THAO NGUYEN (HE/HIM)
TIFFANY CURRY (SHE/HER)
ZACK SLAVKIN (HE/HIM)
Instructor Staff
Instructors
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
JIM BRANCH
Director, Finance and Controller
Debut Biotechnology, Inc
PAUL BROWN, TREASURER
CONTRACT CFO
BROWN VENTURES
BJ COOK
President
85SIXTY
MAHNAZ EBRAHIMI
CEP, MBA
ADRIANNA KRIPKE, SECRETARY
ASSISTANT GENERAL COUNSEL – ENVIRONMENTAL & REAL ESTATE LAW
SAN DIEGO GAS & ELECTRIC COMPANY
SERGIO LANGARICA, CHAIR
DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE
SONY ELECTRONICS
MONIQUE MENDOZA, PhD
Founder and CEO
MM Psychology and Solutions, Inc.
LUZ NUNEZ, VICE PRESIDENT
Human Resources
Independent Consultant
CRYSTAL PAGE
Vice President of Communications
Prebys Foundation
RICKY SCHLESINGER, CHAIR EMERITUS
RETIRED EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
EAGLE CREEK TRAVEL GEAR
ARIEL STEVENS
Therapist, ACSW
Family Health Centers of San Diego
NILAY THAKKAR
Business Strategy, Corporate Partnerships
Excelerate
ANGELA YUTANGCO
MANAGING DIRECTOR OF HR SERVICES
SAYva solutions
ADVISORY COUNCIL
NOAH BEN-ADERET, PH.D.
Fisheries Ecologist
NOAA
DOUGLAS BURKE; Board Member Emeritus
PRESIDENT & CO FOUNDER
COGNITIVE MEDICAL SYSTEMS
LETICIA CAZARES, MPH
Cazares Coaching & Consulting Services
BRUCE DUNCAN PERRY, M.D., PH.D.
FOUNDER/SENIOR FELLOW
THE CHILD TRAUMA ACADEMY
JANIE DECELLES
CONSERVATION ADVOCATE & COMMUNITY LEADER
BEN MAXWELL
INTERIM DIRECTOR OF DIVISION OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY
RADY CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
DAVID PRICE
CEO
PriceSmart
CHRIS RUTGERS; Outdoor Outreach Founder
Executive Director
Transforming Youth Outdoors
SHELBY STANGER; Board Member Emeritus
Creator & Host
WILD IDEAS WORTH LIVING
TRACI VERARDO-TORRES
Founder
TVT CONSULTING
BEN MCCUE (HE/HIM)
Chris Munoz (He/Him)
Growing up in Southeast San Diego, the outdoors were always my escape. Whether I was biking around the neighborhood with friends, camping with my cub scout troop, or playing first base in little league, I always found a reason to get out and do something. In retrospect, the experience that changed everything for me was a 5-day backpacking trip from Mammoth to Yosemite, fresh out of high school. Being completely disconnected from the predictable grind of home, school, and work, opened my eyes to how much more there is to life. I don’t think I grasped it at the time, but the outdoors transformed me and shifted my perspective on a lot of things, and that’s a big part of why I believe in what we do here.
My background includes an undergraduate degree in History from SDSU where I learned to craft a compelling argument, and extensive training in nonprofit management and professional grant writing. I’ve spent the last eight years of my career in the nonprofit sector, initially working at a nonprofit credit counseling agency where I not only counseled, but empowered individuals from diverse backgrounds in navigating the complexities and uncertainties of financial crisis. My passion for the outdoors eventually led me to an environmental nonprofit where I took on a role that encompassed zero waste advocacy, watershed protection, and creating meaningful relationships with individuals, businesses, and community groups throughout the county.
Now, as the Senior Coordinator of Outreach and Fundraising at Outdoor Outreach, I’m excited to help make my experience a reality for the next generation. Outside of work you’ll likely catch me in the garden, reading a good book, or crafting a culinary masterpiece.
chris.munoz@outdooroutreach.org
Chris Santomero (He/Him)
Prior to joining Outdoor Outreach, I worked as the outdoor education program coordinator at The Ocean Institute, a non-profit focused on experiential education, scientific research, and marine conservation. I’ve lived and worked in many places including Yosemite NP, on a whale watching boat in the pacific, and on a ranch in the Cleveland National Forest. Outside of work I enjoy hiking, gardening, playing music, backpacking, and sailing.
As the Leadership Program Associate Manager, I have the privilege of coordinating and co-facilitating the Outdoor Outreach Leadership Program — an 8 to 13 week paid training course where youth have the opportunity to gain valuable leadership, workforce, civic engagement, and outdoor industry skills. I help fulfill the Outdoor Outreach mission by curating this program that connects youth with the transformative power of the outdoors. I believe that the outdoors can be a place of healing and can teach a person so much about themselves as well as the world around them.
My favorite part of my job is being able to connect and learn from cohorts of exceptional young adults, while spending time in beautiful places and sharing new experiences. To be able to take the experience that I’ve had, finding healing and inspiration from outdoor spaces, and utilize similar experiences to encourage youth to find their voice and cultivate personal and professional growth is both a big responsibility and a privilege. Building a supportive and impactful community, and seeing first hand how these experiences transform youth for the better, is the drive that keeps me motivated every day.
chris.santomero@outdooroutreach.org
DAVID FOSTER (HE/HIM/ANY)
Prior to joining OO, I was a Zoo Keeper and Tour Guide for Wild Wonders as well as the Development Supervisor for San Diego Zoo Global’s Wildlife Conservancy. I find nothing more rewarding than connecting with people to a greater purpose and helping them find their passion. I have had the pleasure of working in the non-profit sector for the last 15 years over 30 different organizations. I currently live in a tiny mountain town on an ecological reserve. We don’t have any traffic lights or even a gas pump. Our entire town gets together for a monthly music night – it’s weird but I love it!
As the Logistics Senior Coordinator, I am always most excited about the variety of tasks my role serves. Getting to help others and inspiring passion while finding fun and excitement is critical for my work happiness.
What I love most about Outdoor Outreach is getting the opportunity to inspire young people and help shape their passion for the outdoors and recreation. I love all the connections that we build through actions and words. We are helping to build a more positive and healthy future for our youth, our community and our planet.
david.foster@outdooroutreach.org
GABRIELA MILLS (SHE/HER)
As a Youth Programs Coordinator at Outdoor Outreach, I am committed to creating opportunities for young people to connect with the outdoors, build confidence, and develop life-long skills. I am passionate about advocacy and public policy, environmental conservation, sustainability, and youth development, and I believe deeply in the power of experiential education to transform and inspire the next generation of leaders.
I received my Master’s in International Peace and Conflict Resolution from American University and my Bachelor’s in Intercultural Peacebuilding from Brigham Young University–Hawaii. Prior to joining Outdoor Outreach, I was a Project Manager for the Public Buildings Service at the General Services Administration. I also served as a Youth Development Volunteer with the U.S. Peace Corps in Morocco, and I’m a Certified Empowerment Self Defense Instructor through ESD Global.
gabriela.mills@outdooroutreach.org
GABY JASSO (SHE/HER)
Accounting Coordinator
As an Operations Field Coordinator, I assist in overseeing group management and mitigating risks throughout our programs. I also support the Operations team in Field Instructor development such as training, evaluations, and record-keeping as well as trip logistics and preparation as needed.
When I am out on trips my focus is to make sure they leave with a smile on their face. I love showing them the outdoors that is around them and seeing the “whoa!” on their face. My favorite thing to hear is “I’m happy I came out on the trip today!” I enjoy making connections with the youth that I work with because most of them remind me of when I was a participant. I try my best to give back to the youth of our community and give them experiences that they’ll never forget, just like the experiences I had.
gaby.jasso@outdooroutreach.org
JASPER MILLS (ANY)
Youth Programs Coordinator
As Youth Programs Coordinator I have the privilege of implementing Outdoor Outreach’s vision into meaningful experiences for youth and partner staff alike from lesson planning with intentional outcomes in mind for specific programs to leading trips out in the field. Building relationships of trust is a strength I am proud of and I use curiosity, passion and authenticity to icrease engagement with the communities OO serves. I have worked in Youth Activism for over a decade with non-profit organizations all over the country as well as internationally. Nature emersion and art are my preferred conduits for growth for myself and also for youth development. Prior to joining the team at Outdoor Outreach, I worked with youth at the Anasazi Foundation, Pacific Quest, ARCC Programs, Telos University and Peace Corps Morocco.
jasper.mills@outdooroutreach.org
NHAN LE (HE/HIM)
Youth Programs Assistant
As a Youths Programs Assistant at Outdoor Outreach, I get the chance to work with the wonderful team that makes successful outings for the participants across San Diego. I primarily focus on working with the Leadership Programs team to help develop future leaders of the outdoors. I find it really rewarding that I am able to contribute to such an amazing program within Outdoor Outreach, that has once helped me, and will strive to continue the same profound effects for others. Prior to this, I have been working with a few programs in San Diego such as FACES for the future and Mid-City Can to do my part for the community.
A few things that I like to do are skateboarding, surfing, and rock climbing. They all allow me to challenge myself in different ways and help me develop as a person.
nhan.le@outdooroutreach.org
KELSEY WADMAN (SHE/HER)
Director of Foundation and Government Relations
As Director of Foundation and Government Relations I connect with funding partners who share our passion for youth development and the beautiful natural spaces throughout San Diego County and beyond. Philanthropy in San Diego is a bustling and uplifting field and it’s my honor to represent Outdoor Outreach within our funding community. I am also an active member of San Diego Women’s Foundation, where I practice collective, trust-based philanthropy with our membership of over 200. Prior to joining the team at Outdoor Outreach, I worked in development with Just in Time for Foster Youth, Center for Community Solutions, and San Diego Audubon.
My time at San Diego Audubon got me completely hooked on birding! I’ve passed on my love for our avian friends to my two young sons, who both know how to listen for woodpeckers and point out our common backyard birds. There is something about birding that brings about a sense of being present, and there’s nothing more exciting than spotting a bird you’ve never seen before. I also enjoy hiking, camping, snorkeling, paddle boarding and native plant gardening. My partner and I met when we lived and worked in Yosemite National Park.
kelsey.wadman@outdooroutreach.org
Kyla Krause (She/Her)
Associate Office Manager
As the Administrative Coordinator, I help support and advance our human resources, accounting and administrative functions. I work closely with the Human Resources Manager as well as the Senior Director of Finance and Administration to ensure our awesome staff have the tools and systems they need to carry on.
A shared value I cherish with Outdoor Outreach is the belief that when young people explore their world and overcome challenges, they can connect to a new sense of what they can do and be. We are so fortunate to have an abundance of diversity in California and our outdoor spaces should mirror that. One of my favorite key initiatives is the opportunity for young people to learn about Outdoor Advocacy and engage with decision-makers to promote meaningful changes for future generations.
Though my role requires a lot of screen time, I try to spend my free time outside! My pup, Howdy, takes me to the dog beach as much as possible, I enjoy exploring the Sierra Nevadas and camping with friends on the Central Coast. If you’d like to learn more or just have a general question, please reach out and I’d be happy to point you in the right direction.
kyla.krause@outdooroutreach.org
Lupe Flores (She/Her/Ella)
Director of Community Engagement
As the Director of Community Engagement for Outdoor Outreach, I am passionate about connecting communities to meaningful outdoor opportunities. Before joining Outdoor Outreach, I was the Community Engagement Manager for UCSD Health and have years of experience in San Diego’s nonprofit sector.
With a bachelor’s degree in political science and a minor in Border Studies from CSU San Marcos and a Master of Arts in Nonprofit Management and Leadership from the University of San Diego, I’ve dedicated my career to fostering partnerships that create lasting, positive impacts in the San Diego community. My experience spans project management, community outreach, and fundraising.
At the heart of my work is a steadfast commitment to putting the community first, ensuring that every initiative I lead reflects the voices and needs of those we serve. Having grown up in LA with little access to outdoor spaces, those few parks in my neighborhood made a difference in my life. I love exploring parks, hiking, tide-pooling, and spending time outdoors with my dog Beni!
lupe.flores@outdooroutreach.org
Matt Smith (He/Him)
Senior Director of Programs
As the Senior Director of Programs, I support the overall growth and management of programs and ensure that everyone has the resources they need for successful program development and diversity.
So many young students in our community have not noticed the world of adventures here in their own San Diego backyard. I love getting the chance to show them the amazing parts of this city and even this state. The best part of my job are the connections and opportunities to mentor the students and staff we work with. I have been working for nearly a decade in the outdoor rec’ and non-profit world. I started with Outdoor Outreach in 2011 as an intern and have worn many hats with Outdoor Outreach since.
Fun Fact: before joining the Outdoor Outreach team I was among many things; a professional clown, Park Ranger for the National Park Service, Environmental Science Teacher, International Service Group Guide, Trail Crew Leader, and Adventure Camp Director
matt.smith@outdooroutreach.org
Micah Wullschleger (He/Him)
Youth Programs Coordinator of Special Events
As the Youth Programs Coordinator of Special Events, I will be working to develop a unique partnership between Outdoor Outreach and the Outdoor Leadership Training club at High Tech High Chula Vista. OLT is a student-run organization which facilitates the development of leadership and outdoor skills in its students through outdoor experiences. I was an adult sponsor of this club as a teacher at HTHCV for the past 7 years, and now as an employee of OO, I will be learning even more outdoor education skills that will strengthen and provide stability to OLT, while also potentially bringing some of the student-led nature of OLT to OO.
I have a passion for the outdoors and have had the privilege of riding my bike from Nebraska to Seattle, kayaking down the Missouri River for two weeks, exploring 10,000 year old cave paintings in Baja California, and hiking to the largest temple of the Maya world in Guatemala. I am also passionate about non-hierarchical structures and youth development, and I am excited that my current position at OO allows me to pursue all of these passions at once.
micah.wullschleger@outdooroutreach.org
Mike Kowalski (He/Him)
Senior Grants Coordinator
Before joining Outdoor Outreach I worked in the outdoor industry for 7 years, starting out as a gear outfitter then eventually working as a hiking and climbing guide. I enjoyed sharing my experience and passion for the outdoors with others.
I love Outdoor Outreach’s mission because the outdoor experience is truly a transformative one that all young people deserve to enjoy, regardless of their background or circumstances. I was eager to become part of the Outdoor Outreach team as a Youth Programs Assistant Coordinator to seek out the people and communities who stand to benefit the most from experiencing the sublime beauty and serenity that comes with recreating outside, designing programs that create confidence and fulfillment for youth.
When I’m not working in the office or in the field, I can be found looking for inspiration while rock climbing, cooking, stargazing or writing fiction–and you might occasionally hear me outside, from a distance, singing a sea shanty or three.
Molly Morelli (She/Her)
Senior Director of Finance & Administration
I grew up hiking, biking, and kayaking in the outdoors of my home town in Pennsylvania. My love of outdoor recreation inspired my career path to provide similar opportunities for youth. I spent 5 years in Chicago working in various programmatic and administrative roles at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. In the past, I have also worked with outdoor recreation programs; starting as a camp counselor throughout my college years before becoming a full-time manager at the YMCA in 2006.
As the Senior Director of Finance and Administration, I help our program and development teams focus on their important work by supporting the organization’s financial, HR and administrative needs.
What I love about Outdoor Outreach the most is the people. Whether it’s the Leadership Program students, instructors, office staff or participants, everyone brings a passion and energy for the work we do, making it easy and enjoyable to come to the office each day! I believe that we actively promote the heart and soul of San Diego, working to share outdoor experiences with everyone, not just those who have easy access.
molly.morelli@outdooroutreach.org
Nicole Morris (She/They/Him)
Youth Programs Manager
As a Youth Programs Associate Manager, I’m often supporting the youth programs team and managing community partnerships. This also means that at times I act as a bridge between multiple departments, supporting with interdepartmental initiatives, grant reporting, and trainings.
I love working with Outdoor Outreach because of our commitment to making infrastructural change in our organization and in our local community. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience nature and all that it has to offer. My favorite way to do this is to get in the water, either snorkeling, surfing, scuba diving, or paddle boarding!
nicole.morris@outdooroutreach.org
Noel Kendrick (She/Her)
Youth Programs Coordinator
As a Youth Programs Coordinator at Outdoor Outreach, I am passionate about creating space and increasing accessibility to the outdoors for everyone. I believe that connecting youth to the outdoors can be life-changing just as it has been for my personal journey.
I love that Outdoor Outreach supports youth by building their confidence through learning new skills, challenging themselves, and raising self-awareness. I would like to inspire youth to develop a relationship with the outdoors and experience the transformative qualities that nature has to offer.
I have a Bachelors degree in Sociology and have worked in the non-profit sector since 2018. I’m thankful to be a part of this amazing team and am looking forward to many adventures ahead!
noel.kendrick@outdooroutreach.org
Quinten Kirby (He/Him)
Senior Logistics Coordinator
As Senior Logistics Coordinator, I assist in the awesome trips OO are able to run. I am fortunate to work with some of the fantastic youth of San Diego helping facilitate different outdoor and team-building activities!
I was born and raised in San Diego and became someone constantly drawn to the outdoors and the preserved spaces throughout the county at a young age! While working with OO, I am able to connect youth with these sacred spaces that are in our own backyard. I am honored to have the ability of leading trips with youth who are able to connect with the natural environment we live around simultaneously learning new skills and becoming proficient at a new outdoor activity.
Before joining Outdoor Outreach I was a professional cyclist. I was able to travel to and race in 10 different counties over a handful of years! I was able to use the bicycle as a vessel to travel and experience different cultures, people, and natural environments. I’ve worked in and around the bike industry for nearly a decade. I am always excited to go on a mountain bike ride and you can most likely find me pedaling around somewhere scenic on a day off.
quinten.kirby@outdooroutreach.org
Salina Sanchez (She/Her)
Human Resources Manager
Prior to joining OO, I worked in hospitality as a Human Resources Generalist for a large hotel company. I’ve held many jobs within the hospitality industry, but I am most passionate about working in Human Resources. What I enjoyed most about my previous job is getting to work with so many different people. OO is my first job in both the non-profit and outdoor recreation space. I am very excited to now be a part of both!
I fully believe in Outdoor Outreach’s mission to help transform the lives of young people with the positive experiences and connections made in the outdoors. As a Human Resources Manager, I assist the organization in recruitment, staff training, and development, as well as provide support to staff with the navigation of HR policies and processes. What I like most about working in HR is helping others to reach their full potential while helping the organization fulfill their mission. In my free time, I enjoy long-distance and trail running, hiking, camping, and backpacking.
salina.sanchez@outdooroutreach.org
Santos Plaza (He/Him)
Senior Youth Programs Coordinator
Prior to joining OO, I was in High school working with volunteers across San Diego County. I was the president of a student-run organization at The O’Farrell Charter Schools. I also was working as a student aid at the same school. A fun fact about me is that I am the fourth Santos in my family. I am proudly Samoan and love to be in the ocean, desperately wishing I could speak with sea turtles. Outside of work I enjoy playing some card games with my family and friends.
As an instructor, I am side by side with other instructors directing the youths we serve to challenge themselves to their comfort, with all the activities and programs we offer.
What I love most about Outdoor Outreach is the way that we provide youth with an environment that feels welcoming and supportive – a place where they can truly be themselves. I love working face to face with young men and women. Seeing their faces light up when they’ve had their epiphanies, or when they are proud of achieving their goal for that day; that makes my day.
santos.plaza@outdooroutreach.org
Stefanie Lehner (She/Her)
Operations Associate Manager
My most impactful and memorable experiences have always been in the outdoors. My love for the ocean, especially, inspired me to pursue a B.S. in Marine Biology from UCSD, and later on, an M.A. in Biology with a focus in conservation from Miami University. Since starting my career, I have primarily worked in environmental education, engaging with diverse communities to inspire them to find joy and wonder in the beauty of the outdoors.
Working at Outdoor Outreach, I’ve not only been able to help others find confidence and belonging in outdoor spaces, but find that within myself as well. My passion for the outdoors has only continued to grow, and I love sharing my passion with others through activities like surfing, snorkeling, and climbing.
As Operations Associate Manager, I help to support our instructor team by building and developing their skills and knowledge of the outdoors. I assist with evaluations, trainings, and other tasks that allow our instructors to be their best selves and be an inspiration to our participants. I also continue to work in the field, directly engaging with participants and providing experiences that I hope will have a lasting impact on them.
stefanie.lehner@outdooroutreach.org
Sunny Chang (She/Her)
Youth Programs Senior Manager
As the Youth Programs Senior Manager, my role is to keep our programs functioning smoothly. On a typical day, I take care of administrative duties in the office and then go out in the field to lead a trip with students. The best part of my job is exposing youth to outdoor activities and places for the first time, and watching them be transformed through these experiences. I love seeing how it brightens their day and gives them joy; for some, it can be a life-changing event. All in all, to spread positivity is the most rewarding feeling ever. I love that OO introduces the kids to their own backyard. Through these amazing sights and activities, the students are able to feel connected to their surroundings and each other. It cultivates a culture of care, respect and responsibility for the community.
After graduating from UCSC with a double major in Sociology and Wilderness Therapy, I worked with several youth organizations, leading adventure activities, backpacking trips and challenge courses. I have always been involved in some form of education and instruction with youth. I have been with OO for about 9 years now.
When I’m not working, I try to play metal songs on my ukulele. My other passions include spending quality time with friends and family, surfing, rock climbing, and playing disc golf.
sunny.chang@outdooroutreach.org
Thao Nguyen (He/Him)
Youth Programs Assistant
As a Youth Programs Assistant, I work alongside the youth programs team to organize, coordinate, and deliver outdoor recreation trips with the aim of bringing environmental education, stewardship and equity to youth communities around City Heights and El Cajon!
I’m currently studying for my degree in Kinesiology. Having a passion for health science, being able to work closely with the natural world at Outdoor Outreach gives me the opportunity to be a student and make a difference in my community in a way that aligns with my passions. Working with coordinators, I help operate the social media aspect of the youth programs. Bringing creativity and fun to the mix! I graduated from the Fall/Spring 2024-2025 Leadership Program, I learned lots about myself and the importance of teamwork. One of my favorite memories during the program was getting to build connections with those around me while sitting around a campfire, eating s’mores, and looking at bugs. A few of my hobbies and interests include rock climbing, attending live shows, art galleries, working out, and iced coffee.
thao.nguyen@outdooroutreach.
Tiffany Curry (She/Her)
Public Policy Coordinator
My work is guided by values of inclusion, anti-oppression, and joy.
Through a fellowship with the California Climate Action Corps, I joined Outdoor Outreach in 2023 with the goal of learning how connection to nature can fuel community transformation. In January 2025, I rejoined the team as Public Policy Coordinator, excited to deepen our advocacy and policy work.
In my role, I represent the organization as one of the conveners of the Surf Justice Collective and the Tijuana River Coalition, as well as advancing opportunities for young people to use their voice to make positive change for their communities. The most rewarding part of this work is witnessing our community grow in confidence and capacity to shape the policies that affect them. It has been an honor to collaborate with dozens of community-based organizations across California to expand access to nature and advance environmental justice.
Beyond my professional role, I connect with the world through writing songs, surfing, and what I like to call being a “professional hobby hopper,” since I have a million hobbies.
tiffany.curry@outdooroutreach.
Zack Slavkin (He/Him)
Senior Youth Programs Coordinator
Born in Orange County, CA and relocating to Denver, CO at the age of 15, the outdoors has played an important role in my life. From learning to snowboard in Big Bear, to leading highschoolers on week long backpacking trips throughout the Rockies, the mountains have always felt like home. Moving to San Diego in 2024 has given me the opportunity to explore and appreciate the ocean and other incredible places we are privileged to have access to here.
As a Youth Programs Coordinator, I create, build, and maintain relationships with our partner programs, working closely with the administration and students to create impactful outdoor programming throughout the year. The ability to provide underserved communities with these opportunities, as well as facilitate them, is something I am fortunate to be able to do. Mentorship is a strength of mine, and I value opportunities to pass on what I have learned throughout my varied experiences and from the amazing people I have had the pleasure of learning from.
I received my B.S. in Psychology from Colorado State University, with the intention of becoming a wilderness therapist and have since worked in variety of roles including leadership in summer camps and wilderness therapy programs, early education with a focus on Reggio Emilia inspired pedagogy, and program development and facilitation for adults and families. I am grateful to be able to share my skills and passions with the amazing staff and communities we serve here at OO. A longtime musician and spiritual adventurer, I love to engage with nature and people in whatever ways I can, following my curiosity, wherever it may lead.
zack.slavkin@outdooroutreach.org
Instructors
Each year, our dedicated Field Instructors bring the transformative power of the outdoors to almost 2,000 youth in San Diego. By facilitating over 500 opportunities to surf, bike, kayak, climb, and more each year, instructors foster brave spaces where participants discover their strengths, build confidence, and cultivate belonging in a community that supports them and consistently shows them that they matter.
