Building Community in the Outdoors

Join Executive Director Nicky Wood and Development Director Lauren Humphrey on the first Thursday of each month.

Join in a relaxed, ongoing conversation series. It is designed to bring our community together—outside.

What will we do?

We might paddle a quiet lake, share stories around a fire, or catch up over a post-climb beer. These gatherings are your chance to connect with the people behind Outside Perspectives. It’s a great opportunity to learn more, share feedback, discuss ideas or hopes and dreams for OP!

They also provide a way to engage with the mission we all care about.

Who’s Invited?

  • Board Members
  • Potential Board Members
  • Donors
  • Friends
  • Instructors/Facilitators
  • Partners
  • Parents

…And anyone simply curious about how to get more involved!

Locations and details will be confirmed and shared each month.
Rain or snow? We pivot to a cozy local spot for drinks and good conversation.

Scroll down to RSVP to your Thursday adventure of choice!

August 7
Paddle with OPJoin us for a paddle and conversation on Winchester Lake! All gear provided. If you prefer, you can bring your own. There will have the opportunity to go swimming for those who are interested. We’ll meet at Lake Winchester Boat Launch.
4:00 p.m.Winchester Lake Boat Launch
W Rd
Winsted, CT 06098
Sept 4
Hike with OPJoin us for a beautiful hike in People’s State Forest. More info to come.
4:00 – 6:00 pmPeople’s State Forest
Barkhamsted, CT 06063
Oct 2
Fireside ChatJoin us for a campfire conversation. More info to come.
4:00 – 6:00 pmTBD
Nov 6
Indoor Climbing with OPJoin us for some climbing and conversation. Beginners welcome!
4:00 – 6:00 pmCentral Rock Gym
99 Shield Street
West Hartford, CT 06110
Dec 4
Brewery Meet-UpJoin us at Brewery Legitimus for a beverage of your choice and some conversation. A food truck is available if you’d like to have dinner as well!
4:00 – 6:00 pmBrewery Legitimus
283 Main St b3
New Hartford, CT 06057
Jan 8
Feb 5
Hit the Slopes with OPCome join Lauren and Nicky for some skiing and chairlift chats at Sundown! We will be on our Ski Patrol shift, but are still free to ski with friends.
4:00 – 6:00 pmSki Sundown
126 Ratlum Rd
New Hartford, CT 06057
March 5
Coffee & ConversationJoin us for a coffee and chat before beginning the work day! The breakfast and treats are delicious, too!
8:00 – 9:00 amDoms Coffee
20 W Main St
Avon, CT 06001
April 2
Hike with OPJoin us for a hike up Jones Mountain in New Hartford. Come prepared to hike on a single-track dirt trail. Bring water and any trail snacks you want!
4:00 – 6:00 pmJones Mountain
New Hartford, CT 06057
May7
Hike with OPCome for a hike on the Henry Buck Trail. You’ll experience one of the most scenic spring wildflower blooms around!
4:00 – 6:00 pmHenry Buck Trail
344 West River Rd
Barkhamsted, CT 06063
June 4
Paddle with OPHop in a canoe on Lake Winchester with Nicky and Lauren. We’ll paddle, chat, snack, and enjoy a swim if we’d like!
4:00 – 6:00 pmLake Winchester Boat Launch
West Rd
Winsted, CT 06098

RSVP

to your First Thursday with OP!

Name
Choose the event you would like to attend from the dropdown menu.
Share a bit about who you are and what made you decide to join us!

be a part of the mission you care about!
Questions / Ideas for a Thursday?

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