fishing

Let's Get Outside

We believe in the power of outdoor recreation and the value of a strong connection with nature.

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kayaking

On the Road to Healthy Lifestyles

We support programs that seek to increase physical activity with the goal of fostering and modeling healthy lifestyles.

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mountain

Experience Challenge

Self-confidence grows from learning new skills, gaining new knowledge and successfully completing new endeavors.

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group

Our Focus is Youth

We strongly believe that rewarding recreational experiences can improve the lives of young people in need.

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Recent News

Three young people wave from the bow of a sailboat
Photo courtesy of SailMaine

Grantee Spotlight: SailMaine

March 3, 2025

Based in Portland, Maine, SailMaine promotes affordable access to the water through community sailing and education programs. NRF funding supports the City Sailors program, which offers free sailing lessons and

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a person sits near a cliff edge with a backpack and a camp stove, looking at the view

Honoring Black Leaders in Outdoor Recreation & Environmental Conservation

February 14, 2025

In February, we celebrate Black History Month. This is an opportunity to recognize that the history of outdoor recreation and environmental conservation is rich with the contributions of Black Americans. Below are

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STW
Photo courtesy of Vamos Outdoors Project

NRF Announces 2025 Special Grant and Trustee Grant Recipients

February 7, 2025

The National Recreation Foundation is pleased to announce its 2025 Special Grant and Trustee Grant recipients. More than $1.5K was distributed to 41 organizations across 23 states. NRF is proud to invest in these

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Year At A Glance

34.5K+

youth served

$2.41M

invested in youth recreation programs

96

grants made

$19.4M

to 270+ organizations across the U.S. in the past decade