The groups working to increase outdoor recreation access for youth who need it

At the end of April, Colorado Parks and Wildlife will open grant applications for its Outdoor Equity Grant Program (OEGP). The money is intended to increase outdoor access for certain marginalized youth groups.

CU student Abby Arak brings us this report.

The OEGP is supporting efforts, not just to get kids outside, but also to create meaningful experiences that connect people to the land through community-led programs. With these grants, the OEGP empowers communities to navigate outdoor experiences and education at their own pace, deciding for themselves what will benefit their communities most.

However, demand still exceeds available funding. Thus, disparities in access, well-being, education and environmental representation continue to affect communities.

The 2026 Outdoor Equity Grant application will be open from April 30 through June 2. Last year, the OEGP awarded a total of 2 million dollars to 24 programs, including one in Boulder and two in Denver.

This story aired on the Morning Magazine, KGNU’s weekday morning show featuring in-depth discussions on local news issues. Click here to listen to other episodes of the Morning Magazine.