About Us
We believe that time outside is fundamental to the health and well-being of all people.
A world where everyone can experience the health and well-being benefits of nature.
To support nonprofits expanding access to the outdoors.
Nature helps people thrive. Time outside can reduce stress, support physical and mental health, strengthen communities and support childhood development. Yet millions of people across the United States face barriers to these benefits, including limited green space, transportation, cost, safety concerns and a lack of belonging outdoors.
In 2026, our grant partner, Nature and Health Alliance, released the first American Nature and Health Survey. It found that more than 75% of Americans do not spend time in nature daily, 45% spent less than two hours outside the previous week, and 30% lack nearby access—even as 75% go outside to support their mental health. The findings affirm that nature is not a luxury, but essential to health, well-being and human connection.
The REI Cooperative Action Fund carries forward REI Co-op's more than 50-year commitment to connecting people to the outdoors. We give grants to nonprofits that care for outdoor places, provide outdoor experiences, and advance the nature and health movement. Through this work, our grantees are expanding access to parks, trails, green spaces and outdoor opportunities.
Together with our nonprofit partners and the broader REI community, we are helping to shape a future where the outdoors is truly for everyone—and where every moment outside opens the door to increased connection, joy and belonging.
The REI Cooperative Action Fund recognizes Indigenous people on whose ancestral lands we occupy. We honor Traditional Ecological Knowledge, resistance, and resiliency of these Indigenous communities. The REI Fund's offices are on the traditional homelands of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Duwamish Tribe and Puyallup Tribe. We encourage you to uncover truths about Indigenous lands where you live and spend time outside; learn of settler colonialism, displacement, most importantly, remember Indigenous resilience.
Your donation supports nonprofits across the country working to create a world where everyone can experience the health and well-being benefits of nature.
