Other Initiatives
Additional ADI Programming
Visitor Use Management: Preserving the Adirondack Park is central to our mission, and truly effective stewards are formed through
physically visiting and experiencing the park’s natural wonder and beauty. We must ensure that the park attracts a diverse range of visitors, implements any restrictions with caution, and makes all visitors feel welcome and safe throughout their stay. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is developing a Visitor Use Management (VUM) Plan for the High Peaks region. The VUM is designed to enhance sustainable visitor experiences, employing data-driven strategies to create adaptive plans for high-use areas. ADI is committed to ensuring that the study comprehensively incorporates ecological and human protections, that the data collected addresses safety and inclusion for all visitors, and that the data is examined for potential bias. Additionally, we hope to survey individuals who do not visit the park to understand any barriers.
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Schoolyard Response Guide: When a child hits another on the playground, adults quickly intervene. Similarly, when a child is targeted due to their race, gender, religion, or identity, they deserve immediate protection from adults. However, many people are unsure how to respond effectively in these situations, leading to silence or delays in support, which can leave the child feeling neglected or unsupported. To address this, we are developing resources to help parents, teachers, families, and other stakeholders respond swiftly and compassionately, ensuring children's safety and addressing their social-emotional needs. Our resources guide interventions before,
during, and after a situation arises.dack Experience Museum.
Arts Inclusion Initiative: ADI believes deeply in the impact that art has on inclusion. Art raises awareness about the struggles faced by marginalized communities, challenges stereotypes, and can dismantle harmful biases. It can break down barriers and promote a more inclusive society. Art can create a platform for marginalized voices to be heard and empower artists to become agents of change. Diversity and inclusion in the arts enhance the artistic experience for both artists and audiences while reflecting diverse perspectives. Diverse art broadens our understanding of the world and encourages us to question our beliefs and assumptions, inspiring us to grow and evolve.
Events and organizations we have collaborated with include:
John Brown Lives!
Adirondack Center for Writing
ADK ArtRise
Lake Placid Center for the Arts
McClure Productions
And more!
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Listening Series: The practice of listening is fundamental to building understanding. Our commitment to hearing and appreciating the diverse voices and perspectives within our communities is at the heart of our approach. We acknowledge the importance of traveling across the region to engage with residents and build personal connections. Listening sessions have been highly impactful, and we recognize the importance of continuing this important work.
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Speaker Series: ADI recognizes the importance of inviting diverse and knowledgeable speakers to the region. Their value lies in offering a wide range of perspectives that enrich discussions, challenge conventional thinking, and educate audiences. We are committed to featuring speakers who reflect a broad spectrum of experiences and expertise.
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Cultural Celebration Support: At ADI, we believe that celebrations can help individuals feel valued and recognized within their
community. These events bring people together to celebrate and nurture a sense of belonging. By embracing the multicultural fabric of the
community, cultural celebrations unite individuals and enhance social cohesion, ultimately contributing to a stronger, more resilient society.
We actively engage in and promote cultural celebrations throughout the region, whether by leading, partnering with, or sponsoring events. We aim to foster joy, raise awareness of community diversity, and promote inclusivity.
Some of the celebrations we support include:
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Pride Events
Juneteenth
President Quezon History Day
And more!
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Land Trust Alliance Initiative: According to the National Health Foundation, while people of color make up 40% of the U.S. population, they represent less than 30% of those accessing outdoor spaces. Given the mental and physical benefits of nature, it is critical to improve nature access and education for marginalized communities. These communities face higher stress levels and lower engagement with the natural world. This initiative aims to use partnerships with various land trusts to help bridge this gap, ensuring that more people from diverse backgrounds experience and benefit from the natural world. Local land trusts have expressed a desire to increase public use of theirproperties, and we aim to help them be intentional in inviting diverse groups to experience and enjoy their lands. For example, the Adirondack Land Trust has a goal to “engage more people in land protection through educational outreach to landowners, partners, and diverse constituencies.” This goal closely aligns with our own mission, and we are working to partner with these land trusts to bring it to fruition.