Retiring REI CEO Dennis Madsen has created a new foundation dedicated to introducing young people to the outdoors. The Youth Outdoors Legacy Fund will annually fund outdoor programs serving young people. Its end goal is to “ help youth develop a lifelong appreciation for the natural world and outdoor recreation.”
The fund has commitments well exceeding $750,000 and a goal to raise $5 million over the next several years. The founding contributions include a $250,000 personal pledge by Madsen; a $250,000 donation from REI; VF Corporation, parent company of The North Face and JanSport outdoor brands, made an additional $250,000 contribution. Tim Boyle and the team at Columbia Sportswear Company made another significant contribution. In addition to its initial donation, REI has pledged $250,000 in both 2006 and 2007 to encourage the funds sustained growth.
Madsen said that he is actively seeking significant funding commitments from major donors to help the fund move quickly toward its target.
“Ive tried to give back along the way; but as I prepare to complete a 39-year career with REI, I want to make sure I help leave a legacy, and I can think of no better group to support than young people,” Madsen said. “With the support of others, the foundation can make a real difference in getting kids outdoors, which is good for helping raise healthy kids; and its good for the future of the outdoors because the future generations will only protect what they care about. If they understand the wonders of the outdoors, I believe todays young people will be active in making outdoor stewardship an important part of their life.”
The fund will be administered through The Seattle Foundation, a highly respected and professionally managed community foundation. Grant making will be overseen by the Youth Outdoors Legacy Fund board.
