Detroit Outdoors and the Sierra Club’s Inspiring Connections Outdoors (ICO) are part of an interrelated community outreach program that provides disadvantaged urban youth and adults with positive outdoor experiences. Through the ICO program, wilderness areas become accessible to youth from varied economic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds, as well as to hearing- or visually impaired individuals and people with physical disabilities. In cities across the country, from California to Florida, our ICO volunteer leaders work in diverse communities with local agencies — such as schools, churches, neighborhood youth groups, rehabilitation centers, and outdoor clubs — to provide wilderness experiences and environmental education for people who otherwise might not have these opportunities.

ICO volunteers believe that the wilderness exists as a resource for all people and all people should have access to it. Soon after Inspiring Connections Outdoors participants are introduced to the Sierra Club and the values of its members, they discover for themselves the beauty of the wild places we reasure and how to enjoy these areas without harming them.

We provide leadership and furnish the equipment needed to conduct safe wilderness experiences. Most outings are free.

For information on how you can support or participate in the 
Detroit ICO program, contact: DetroitICO@gmail.com