I’m getting ready to head to Colorado for the holidays with my family, and I’m crossing my fingers for some fresh powder at Breckenridge. As the year ends, I’ve also been thinking about what I’m grateful for.
I live in Seattle, a city with quick and easy access to the outdoors. I can hop on my bike and ride trails to the office. I can grab my kayak and slip into Lake Washington for a quick evening paddle. I’m lucky to have so many options to get outside.
It reminds me why we work so hard to increase outdoor access for people across the country. In the spirit of the holiday season, I want to say thanks to all five million of our members for your support in helping us give back to the outdoors.
This year, REI has given $4.6 million to more than 300 nonprofit organizations that are making it easier for more people to experience the joy of the outdoors. Employees and members put their backs into projects to build and maintain hiking trails, increase waterway access for paddlers and improve public parks.
This work is what we’re all about as a co-op and something that I’m very proud of. From all of us at REI, we hope you can get some fresh air and enjoy quality time outside with your friends and family this holiday season!