Who we are

woodlums aims to address the individual and communal, mental, and bodily harms of environmental racism by organizing nature-focused activities and trips for Black people. The organization approaches its endeavors through a restorative lens that centers community building, healing, self-sufficiency, and kinship with earthly co-inhabitants. The goal is to increase interest, comfort, and awareness in nature and help close the gap in access to natural ecosystems for Black people in California and beyond.

Why

Our story

During the Summer of 2022, our founder, Nia had the opportunity to deepen her connection with nature In community with Black peers. This shifted her outlook

on herself, her community, and the value of being in intentional relationship with the planet. From then on, she couldn't "unsee" the damage that a disconnect from the land and green spaces had on Black people's individual and collective wellbeing. Nia decided there

had to be a way to destigmatize the outdoors for young Black folks, so she partnered with her friend, Taylor-Corrine to start Woodlums as a student org at USC. The org became a nonprofit in 2024, and the rest is history!

Founders

nia kai

taylor-corrine