OUR IMPACT
Backcountry Squatters exists to increase participation, representation, and leadership of women and nonbinary individuals in the outdoor community and industry. Our impact shows up through education, funding, leadership development, and — most importantly — community.
Scholarship for Outdoor Education
Access to outdoor education can be life-changing — and it’s often financially out of reach. Our Scholarship for Outdoor Education helps remove that barrier.
Through this program, we provide financial support for members pursuing courses that build technical skills, confidence, and leadership, including avalanche education, wilderness medicine, climbing certifications, and other outdoor training opportunities.
These scholarships don’t just fund courses — they fund self-trust, safety, and long-term participation in outdoor spaces.
41 scholarships awarded since 2019
read scholarship recipient stories
Chapters
Backcountry Squatters is a network of college-based chapters led by students and supported by the nonprofit.
Each chapter is unique — shaped by its members, location, and campus culture — but all are rooted in shared values of community, education, leadership, and equity. Backcountry Squatters members come from a wide range of backgrounds, identities, and experience levels. Some are stepping outside for the first time. Others are building advanced technical skills. All are supported by a community that values growth over perfection and connection over competition.
Chapters host everything from technical clinics and outdoor trips to craft nights, story-sharing events, and mentorship gatherings.
1500+ total members engaged
start a chapter
Chapter Grants
Our Chapter Grants Program puts funding directly into the hands of student leaders.
These grants support local programming designed by chapters themselves — from beginner clinics and educational workshops to community events, gear access initiatives, and leadership development opportunities.
By trusting chapters to identify their own needs, we empower students to build inclusive, creative programming that reflects their campus and community.
$4,000 awarded annually
see funded chapter projects
Alumni
Community doesn’t end at graduation.
Our Alumni Network keeps Squatters connected beyond college, offering continued community, professional connections, mentorship, and opportunities to stay involved.
The nonprofit is supported by Squatters alumni and people who didn’t have access to a community like this during their college years — but deeply believe in the mission and impact of Backcountry Squatters.total members engaged
700+ alumni members
get involved as an alum
Transparency & Long-Term Vision
We believe transparency is essential to building trust and accountability within our community. For a deeper look at our impact, priorities, and long-term goals, explore the resources below:
2025 Impact Report
2024–2027 Strategic Plan
These documents outline where we’ve been, where we’re going, and how we’re building a sustainable, community-led future.
