Black Folks Camp Too

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Western North Carolina – February 18, 2025 – Black Folks Camp Too (BFCT) is launching its Higher Education Program this fall, equipping colleges and universities with the tools to welcome an emerging demographic of outdoor participants and strengthen the outdoor industry workforce.

BFCT’s Higher Education Program is a critical step in that direction. The initiative begins with a pilot phase in North Carolina this spring, leading to a nationwide rollout in the upcoming academic year. Participating institutions will gain access to the Unity Blaze Certification Course, which provides students, faculty, and staff with essential knowledge on fostering a more connected and engaged outdoor community. The program also includes the Unity Blazers Ambassador Initiative, semesterly group webinars with BFCT leadership, an impact-oriented recertification process every two years to ensure long-term impact, and includes a complete facilitation guide for campus implementation. This program is a strong fit for campus recreation outdoor programs as well as outdoor-oriented academic programs.

The outdoor industry is facing a pivotal moment. As Baby Boomers (ages 59-77), who make up a significant portion of the core outdoor recreation base and workforce, begin to age out, their passion for the outdoors is not being proportionally transferred to younger generations. With shifting demographics and evolving interests, the industry must take proactive steps to engage a broader audience. For outdoor recreation, education, and business to remain strong, more people must feel genuinely invited, welcomed, and equipped to participate—not just as visitors, but as future leaders and professionals.

The outdoor industry is at a crossroads. Demographics in the U.S. are shifting rapidly, and to remain relevant and thrive, the industry must invite and engage a broader audience. The future of outdoor recreation, education, and business depends on ensuring that more people feel invited, welcomed, and prepared to enjoy and work in outdoor spaces.

Early Adopters Leading the Way

Lees-McRae College became the first higher education institution in the nation to achieve Unity Blaze Certification in Spring 2024, setting an example for outdoor academic programs nationwide.

“Two of our program goals within our outdoor academic programs are leadership and professional development, and we couldn’t think of a better way to prepare students for careers in the outdoor industry than for them to gain self-awareness, new knowledge, and continued certification with BFCT. We are excited to help pave the way for other institutions.”
— Katie Wall, Lees-McRae College Outdoor Recreation Management

Southwestern Community College and Brevard College will also be among the first institutions to take part in the pilot program.

“The Southwestern Community College Outdoor Leadership Program is proud to be a pioneering NC pilot program offering Unity Blaze Certification, empowering students with the skills and knowledge to lead with confidence, foster community, and connect with nature. This unique certification enhances our students’ ability to create welcoming outdoor experiences, build strong leadership qualities, and promote sustainability—setting them apart in the outdoor industry.”
— Paul Wolf, Southwestern Community College Outdoor Leadership

“We are honored and grateful for Brevard College to be part of the NC Pilot Program for the Unity Blaze Certification with Black Folks Camp Too. We believe that outdoor experiences are powerful tools for connection, personal growth, and well-being—opportunities that should be accessible to all, and that with inclusivity can be exponentially more powerful.  Through this training, our students will become ambassadors of unity with tools to ensure that everyone feels welcome and valued in outdoor spaces and experiences.  This is a compelling way for us to align with our commitment to build stronger communities and to protect the natural world for future generations.  We are eager to learn together!”

— Jennifer Kafsky, Brevard College Wilderness Leadership and Experiential Education

Colleges & Universities: Get Involved

BFCT is now accepting interest forms from institutions looking to join the inaugural program when it officially launches nationwide this fall. If your college or university is interested in participating, fill out our interest form today to stay informed and be among the first to bring the Unity Blaze Certification to your campus.

If you have any questions about the program, please reach out directly to our Higher Education Program contact below, Dr. Katie Wall.

Not in Higher Ed? You Can Still Be Part of the Unity Blaze Movement!

The Unity Blaze Certification isn’t just for colleges and universities—it’s an opportunity for outdoor industry businesses, organizations, and professionals to actively shape a more welcoming and engaged outdoor community.

If you or your organization want to become Unity Blaze Certified and join our mission to invite and welcome more folks to enjoy the outdoor industry and lifestyle, visit The Unity Blaze Academy to sign up for our course and learn how you can integrate the Unity Blaze way into your workplace and brand.

The outdoor industry must evolve to meet the needs of future generations and emerging demographics. Colleges and Universities will play a crucial role in preparing students to lead in areas of stewardship and driving revenue. We are extremely happy that our Unity Blaze Higher Education Program provides students with tools to ensure more sincere, meaningful, measurable and sustainable solutions.” 

– Earl B. Hunter Jr., Founder and President of Black Folks Camp Too.

About Black Folks Camp Too

Black Folks Camp Too is a multinational strategic company dedicated to building unity in the outdoor community and beyond. Through education, media, and industry partnerships, BFCT empowers companies, organizations, and individuals to create a more welcoming and sustainable outdoor experience for all.

For more information on Black Folks Camp Too and their Online Education Initiative, please  visit the Black Folks Camp Too website,  The Unity Blaze Academy, or contact info@blackfolkscamptoo.com.

Media Contact:
Black Folks Camp Too
Email: info@blackfolkscamptoo.com
Website: www.blackfolkscamptoo.com

Higher Education Program Contact:
Dr. Katie Wall
Email: katie@blackfolkscamptoo.com