In October, families came together for the annual African American Outdoor Association Campout (AOAA) sponsored by the Foundation and Oregon State Parks Department. The AOAA’s mission is to “encourage and support the efforts of African Americans to get healthy by getting active outdoors.” They stage outdoor events like hikes, bike rides, kayak trips and more throughout the state.
This event was held at Honeyman State Park on the coast. Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife helped a number of participants catch their first fish. Guided hikes in the area were led by the Oregon Coast Visitors Association and State Park Rangers. Others took to sandboarding, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding on Cleawox Lake. The day wrapped up around the campfire with s’mores and reflection upon the countless memories to last a lifetime!