REI Awards $4.2 Million to Nonprofit Partners that Restore Outdoor Spaces

REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.), a national outdoor gear and clothing retailer, today announced plans to grant $4.2 million this year to nonprofits across the country that work to preserve and maintain natural spaces through active volunteer programs.

“At REI, we encourage our members and customers who enjoy the outdoors to play an active role in taking care of those places,” said Kevin Hagen, director of corporate social responsibility for REI. “We are honored to partner with hundreds of dedicated nonprofit organizations that share a similar mission and whose programs allow us to expand these efforts to trails, waterways and parks across the country.”

The company designates three percent of the previous year's operating profit to its annual grants program. Because REI employees have the most direct connection to local nonprofits, store employees nominate organizations from their local community. REI invites selected nominees to apply for grant funding. Eligible organizations must be outdoor nonprofits that promote active volunteerism through their programs, such as hands-on trail building or restoration events.

“The Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy [PVPLC] manages 1,600 acres of open space and 42 miles of trails with the help of thousands of volunteers and generous contributions from REI,” said Adrienne Bosler, stewardship associate for the PVPLC, an REI grant recipient since 2007. “REI’s continued grant support and volunteer participation has helped enhance several of our volunteer programs and establish the PVPLC as a leader in local conservation and environmental awareness within our community.”

2011 applications were submitted throughout the spring and REI is currently notifying grant recipients in each of its communities. In the coming months, members and customers can visit their local REI store, the REI Blog or their local REI Facebook or Twitter page to learn more about REI’s selected grant partners and how to get involved. Last year, the company granted $3.7 million to more than 320 nonprofits across the country. A full list of the REI’s 2010 grant recipients is available at REI.com.

Throughout the year, REI stores extend their partnerships with outdoor nonprofits by promoting community events, raising visibility with REI customers and, in some cases, providing gear loans and offering product donations. Organizations looking for additional information on how to partner with REI can contact their local REI store. Additional information about REI’s giving philosophy and corporate social responsibility efforts is also available at www.rei.com/stewardship.

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