At the Pine Project, we are deeply committed to creating a community where everyone belongs. We aim to include and celebrate the many facets that contribute to our human identity. For the past several years, in the spirit of accountability, we have reported on our progress in upholding this commitment across the organization, including in such areas as professional development, our hiring practices, and programming – visit our website for reports on our progress.
As we continue to integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion into every aspect of the Pine Project, much of our progress in 2024 is reflected in our Annual Report. Highlights include:
- Expanding partnerships to reach more equity-deserving students. We deepened our collaboration with a model school to support over 300 students. Through this and other existing partnerships we provided free programming to 400 equity-deserving children in 2024.
- Growing support from external organizations that provide financial assistance to campers, including a new connection with the Taylor Statten Camping Bursary Fund. Together, we reduced financial barriers, providing $72,000 in bursaries for kids from low-income families to connect with nature in 2024.
- Strengthening 1:1 support for children with exceptionalities. We improved our accommodations at summer day camps and enhanced staff training, allowing us to support 158 participants in 2024.
- Continuing to invest in staff training to foster inclusivity. We hosted sessions with external facilitators on 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusivity and decolonization.
- Strengthening policies that support our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, including refreshing our DEI policy and gender inclusion policies.
- Centering equity in our strategic planning. Building on our 2023 work with Innoweave’s Impact and Strategic Clarity Program, we are working to centre equity in a clear and strategic way, including in our upcoming strategic planning process.
We remain committed to building a Pine community that finds strength in diversity and ensures nature is accessible to all. We look forward to continuing this journey together, learning and growing with our community over the long term.