Marin 9 to 25 June Steering Committee Meeting: Mental Health & the Outdoors

On June 18, 2024, the Marin 9 to 25 Steering Committee gathered once again, this time to explore the powerful connection between mental health and the great outdoors. With the theme "Mental Health and the Outdoors," the meeting was filled with inspiring stories, actionable insights, and exciting opportunities for youth.

We kicked off with a keynote from Alex Subski and Sophia Rubel from AIM Mental Health, a Marin-based nonprofit dedicated to closing the gap between mental health research and accessible resources. AIM has been at the forefront of creating safe spaces for youth to explore mental health solutions for the past decade.

AIM's Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) program was a highlight of the discussion. YPAR empowers young people to conduct research in their own communities, gathering data and developing policy solutions that address the unique mental health challenges they face. The findings from their recent survey revealed some eye-opening statistics about the pressures Marin County teens are under:

- 90.8% said comparing themselves to others negatively impacts their mental health.

- 81.9% cited quarantine during COVID as a significant stressor.

- 89.5% of teens said their friends struggle with anxiety or other mental health conditions, yet 62.7% admitted their friends wouldn't reach out for help.

The message was clear: Teens in Marin want adults to listen without judgment and be more aware of the immense academic and social pressures they face. AIM's recommendations included building more mental health centers in schools and creating safe spaces for open communication and expression. The next AIM Ideas Lab will run from January to March 2025, offering more chances for youth to get involved in creating change.

Next, we heard from Nicki and Meg of Marin Outdoor Adventures, a local outdoor shop dedicated to helping people find healing through nature. Their "Under the Sun Project," a two-week program for female-identifying youth, offers full scholarships to explore the ocean and connect with nature. It started in West Marin but is now open to everyone aged 10-16.

Nicki and Meg spoke about the barriers that some youth face in accessing outdoor spaces and how their outreach in diverse communities like San Rafael has been successful in breaking down those barriers. If you’re looking to chill, relax, and get some fresh air, there are still spots available for the July program!

Isai from Big City Mountaineers (BCM) shared how their Colorado-based nonprofit provides outdoor adventures for under-resourced youth. These adventures are paired with mentorship programs to help youth develop new skills and foster a deeper connection with nature. The best part? No experience is required, and all gear is provided by companies like North Face, Patagonia, and Yeti.

Isai encouraged youth to try out the day trips and, if they’re up for it, join the multi-day expeditions. It’s a great way to step out of your comfort zone, embrace nature, and maybe even discover a new passion.

Jackie from North Bay Conservation Corps (NBCC) introduced us to their incredible work with at-risk youth aged 18-31. NBCC provides paid work experience programs that include certifications like CPR and forklift operation. They also offer a pathway to earning a high school diploma or GED through their free on-site school.

One of their standout programs is a partnership with the Marin Fire Department, which offers youth a direct route to becoming a firefighter, complete with college classes and EMT certification. Jackie shared success stories of youth who have gone from earning certifications to landing jobs with full benefits and a $50/hour wage. If you’re looking for a meaningful career and a way to support your mental health, NBCC could be the perfect fit.

Finally, Cameron and Luke from Vertical Horizons spoke about their new program that combines rock climbing with mindfulness practices like journaling and gratitude. Created in memory of a friend who passed away due to mental health struggles, Vertical Horizons aims to help youth ages 13-17 find joy and presence through climbing.

This program is free and accessible to all, with sessions held at Gravity Vault in San Rafael. Cameron and Luke emphasized how climbing forces you to focus on the moment, helping to reduce stress and disconnect from the pressures of social media. They’re hoping to eventually take the program outdoors, making the experience even more enriching.

The June meeting was a powerful reminder of how nature and the outdoors can be transformative for our mental health.

Click here to review the meeting slides.

Click here to watch the meeting recording.

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