Ron Griswell wants to meet people where they are to get more Black faces in the outdoors—whether that’s hiking, biking, walking, or running. To do so he’s rebuilt and relaunched HBCUs Outside, and announced the nonprofit’s first fundraiser, #BlacktotheTrails5k.
The virtual race will run from 19-27 September to celebrate Global Trail Running Day, and in turn, help raise money and awareness for the nonprofit and it’s goal of bringing outdoor experiences and resources to students and alumni of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
As an adventure outdoorsman who’s guided canoe, sea kayaking, and whitewater rafting trips, in addition to hiking and backpacking experiences, Griswell wants to use his expertise to create a welcoming space for students and alumni from HBCUs to get outside.