The REI Foundation
As a separate nonprofit organization, The REI Foundation's mission concentrates on helping to ensure that tomorrow's outdoor enthusiasts and conservation stewards reflect the diversity of America. The work of the Foundation complements the co-op's broad efforts in community giving and programs, grassroots store outreach, advocacy and work conducted by REI's Diversity Working Group.
In 2007 the Foundation awarded four grants to nonprofits in San Diego County in California, helping the organizations increase programming in ethnically diverse communities. Recipients included:
- Aquatic Adventures (Wetland Avengers program) — $20,000
- Outdoor Outreach (Youth outreach program) — $25,000
- WiLDCOAST (Clean Water Border campaign) — $20,000
- YMCA of San Diego County (Alfresco program) — $18,729
The Foundation continues to support natural disaster recovery efforts, and honors employees who lost their lives. In 2007, the Foundation contributed $70,000 toward disaster relief efforts for the wildfires in Lake Tahoe, Nev.; flood relief efforts in southern California and southwest Washington.
The REI Foundation is funded primarily by REI. In 2008 the Foundation will be furthering the development of a strategic plan in support of its mission and through strategic giving and engagement.
