Connecting Communities: Experience Nature at Paradise Creek Nature Park

Join us for an inspiring two-day event as the Elizabeth River Project proudly presents “Connecting Communities: Empowerment through Nature,” featuring award-winning film producer Manny Almonte and outdoor enthusiast J.D. Weatherspoon. This event is a heartfelt initiative to bridge the gap between youth of color and the great outdoors.

Start the morning with a screening of “Woodhood,” a compelling documentary that follows the journey of Manny Almonte and J.D. Weatherspoon as they strive to connect young people of color with the natural world. The film showcases their mission through the lens of their groundbreaking initiative, Camping to Connect, which reveals the transformative power of nature. It’s a story of inspiration, community, and the breaking down of barriers, as it highlights the importance of inclusivity in outdoor spaces.

Following the film, immerse yourself in the great outdoors with activities like kayaking, bird walks, interactive camping gear demonstrations. Unwind and connect with nature and community with fellowship and food. Complimentary lunch provided.

About Manny Almonte (He/Him), Founder and CEO, Young Masterminds Initiative/Producer of Wood Hood film | Manny Almonte is on a mission to connect and empower men of color. Manny is the founder of the Mastermind Connect men’s collective and the Young Masterminds Initiative nonprofit organization. Through these organizations, Manny creates unique experiences that empower men of color to realize deep connections with their passions, higher selves, and community. In recognition of his creativity, dedication, and steadfast commitment to changing the lives of young Black and Brown men and for his powerful work to increase access and inclusion for BIPOC youth in the outdoors through his Camping to Connect outdoor youth program, the National Recreation Foundation awarded Manny Almonte the 2023 Robert W. Crawford Achievement Prize.

About J.D. Weatherspoon (He/Him), Co-founder, Young Masterminds Initiative/Mastermind Connect | A Globally-minded, grassroots-driven human catalyst and all around renaissance man, JD Weatherspoon has played a hand in numerous initiatives and programs both domestically, and abroad. A polyglot, JD's field of expertise spans from peer education and youth mentoring to program development and project management. A few of his exploits include the Harvard Center for AIDS Research (HUCFAR) "Forgotten Epidemic" project, the US Refugee Processing Center, El Servicio Nacional de Aprendizaje, and the US Peace Corps (Cambodia). JD is also cofounder of Mastermind Connect and the Young Masterminds Initiative, with a focus on curriculum development.

This event is generously sponsored by REI.

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore, learn, and grow with us as we celebrate the natural world and its boundless possibilities.