I'm Chevon Powell, the Founder of Golden Bricks Events a event company creating special events and festivals highlighting outdoor recreation, nature and diversity. With over 15 years of experience managing events professionally, and my personal experience as an African-American women that loves the outdoors, I'm uniquely skilled to make this event a reality.
The Refuge Outdoor Festival is the first of it's kind. This event is meant to be a safe space for POC outdoor enthusiast and novice to celebrate and explore in one amazing weekend. Studies have shown getting outdoors and participating in recreational activities has positive impacts on physical, mental, and societal health. However, it has to be done in a engaging and safe way. In a 2016 survey conducted by the National Park Service, it was found that less than 20% of park visitors were non-white. Due to numerous reasons including economic and safety issues, the outdoors can be intimidating in particular to POC. This festival will directly address these issues by bringing together people at all levels of outdoors engagement.
REFUGE IS ANYTHING TO WHICH ONE HAS RECOURSE FOR AID, RELIEF, OR ESCAPE.
With the capacity of 500, this will be our pilot festival with the intention to expand the concept to other areas around the country in the years to come. Let's be honest, I need MONEY, KNOWLEDGE, and RESOURCES. Planning a large-scale event outside isn't cheap, but together as a community we will make this event happen!
YOUR FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION
Why do I need $10,000? What will it go to? The funds raised will go toward logistics and production costs to help keep the ticket price low. Every dollar counts. $10,000 is only a fraction of what the overall event will cost but it will go toward venue rental and deposits fees for items like restrooms and transportation.
YOUR IMPACT
I'm sure you've seen the news so I don't have to tell you about all the negative things that have been going on in the world and the attacks on POC communities. This event is needed now more than ever. I believe the festival will be a life changing moment for many people.
1. Simply put representation matters. All people face hurdles in accessing the outdoors. Many POCs have added challenges such as access to gear, transportation to wild spaces, and the lack of outdoor knowledge this festival has been developed to address issues.
2. Life is hard and we all need opportunities to have real conversations. 80% of Americans believe it’s essential for people to come together in person to promote positive change.
3. This is not a one-off event it is to build community and connect people with resources for ongoing engagement.
Your contribution will not only help create this space space but will also help close the adventure gap and impact communities for a better tomorrow.
RISKS & CHALLENGES
Did I mention this isn't my first event? My passion for events and the outdoors has lead me on this path and I believe it will be the community that I have built over the years that will push me through. On hard days I recall my experience in Vermont (What experience in VT? Watch the video) and I work harder to ensure this festival is a success. This event will happen rain or shine.
OTHER WAYS YOU CAN HELP
Remember I mentioned Knowledge and Resources? I understand that not everyone will be able to contribute financially (but if you can please do) here are other opportunities:
- Share this campaign with your network. Encourage your family and friends to support.
- Donate gear. Gear is one of the biggest barriers to entry, we would like to provide access to new and gently used items. Please contact us for more information.
- Be a leader. We need POC leaders to run activities or community conversations at the festival.
- There is plenty to do. Volunteer pre-event or onsite at the festival.
- Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and share our posts and events.
- Keep in touch by signing up to the Mailing list.
- Buy a ticket and attend… don't forget to bring your friends! You all will have an amazing time.