Annapolis, Maryland – According to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, a significant boost to outdoor recreation equity has been announced with the funding of 11 projects for 2025 through the Maryland Outdoor Equity Mini Grants program. This initiative underscores the state’s commitment to ensuring that all residents, regardless of background or location, have access to the transformative benefits of nature and outdoor activities. The announcement, made on October 31, 2025, highlights the importance of outdoor recreation, equity, access, environmental education, health, wellness, and youth development in fostering community connections and personal growth.
The Maryland Outdoor Equity Mini Grants, administered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, aim to support organizations that introduce beginners to outdoor activities and enhance access for underserved communities. This year’s grants, totaling funding for 11 diverse projects across the state, focus on breaking down barriers such as transportation challenges and lack of resources. Each project is designed to promote physical activity, environmental stewardship, and positive social interactions, aligning with the state’s broader goals of inclusivity and sustainability in outdoor spaces.
Among the recipients, Calvert County Parks and Recreation received funding to support weekly field trips for youth. These outings emphasize physical activity, leadership development, and environmental stewardship while addressing transportation barriers to ensure participants from all areas can join. The program seeks to strengthen life skills, foster a deep connection to nature, and create equitable opportunities for local youth to engage with the outdoors. This initiative is a prime example of how targeted funding can make a tangible difference in community access to natural spaces.
Another notable recipient is the Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School, which was awarded $5,000 to expand access to its One-Day Program series. This funding will enable 50 students from underrepresented communities to participate in high-impact outdoor learning experiences. Established in 1986, the Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School has a long history of providing transformative programs that build resilience and teamwork through outdoor challenges. Their inclusion in this grant cycle highlights the value of experiential education in shaping young lives and broadening horizons.
The grants also support a range of other innovative programs across Maryland, from urban green space initiatives to rural outdoor education efforts. Each project shares a common goal: to make outdoor recreation accessible to those who might otherwise be excluded due to economic, geographic, or social barriers. By funding transportation, equipment, and program development, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is helping to level the playing field and ensure that the benefits of nature—improved mental health, physical fitness, and a sense of community—are available to everyone.
A key statistical insight from this initiative is the scope of its reach. With 11 projects funded for 2025, hundreds of individuals, particularly youth from underserved areas, are expected to directly benefit from these programs. This number reflects not only the immediate impact on participants but also the potential ripple effect as families and communities become more engaged with outdoor opportunities. The investment in these projects is a testament to Maryland’s recognition of outdoor recreation as a vital component of public health and social equity.
One specific project worth highlighting involves urban youth in Baltimore, where grant funding will support the creation of accessible outdoor programs in areas with limited green spaces. By transforming underutilized spaces into hubs for outdoor activity and education, this initiative aims to connect city youth with nature in meaningful ways. Such efforts are critical in urban environments where access to parks and natural areas can be scarce, yet the need for safe, healthy recreational outlets is profound.
The Maryland Outdoor Equity Mini Grants program builds on the state’s broader mission to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities while prioritizing equity and inclusion. It aligns with the goals of the Office of Outdoor Recreation, which focuses on environmental conservation, education, economic development, health, and access. These grants are a proactive step toward addressing disparities and ensuring that Maryland’s diverse landscapes—from the Chesapeake Bay to the Appalachian Mountains—are enjoyed by all residents.
This latest round of funding comes at a time when the importance of outdoor access is increasingly recognized as essential for mental and physical well-being. As Maryland continues to invest in these programs, the state sets a powerful example for how targeted initiatives can create lasting change. The success of these projects in 2025 will likely pave the way for expanded efforts in the future, further solidifying Maryland’s reputation as a leader in outdoor recreation equity.
For more information, visit Maryland Department of Natural Resources.