Cultivating generations of Black and Brown innovators and problem solvers for community and global impact in
Portland, Oregon
“Support our core vision of cultivating generations of Black and Brown innovators who will make an impact. Together, we’re building a future where Black and Brown youth lead the way on innovation and problem-solving.”
At ELSO, we center and elevate the stories and experiences of Black and Brown communities through innovative STEAMED (add spell out) and nature-based education. Empowering Black and Brown youth through STEAM education.
Join us in making a difference!
Cultivate Black and Brown Youth in STEAMED fields
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People First
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Social and Environmental Change
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Joy
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Promote Respect for Black and Brown Communities
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Cultivate Black and Brown Youth in STEAMED fields • People First • Social and Environmental Change • Joy • Promote Respect for Black and Brown Communities •
ELSO (Experience Life Science Outdoors) is a community-based organization offering culturally affirming STEAMED education to Black and Brown youth, inspiring them to explore the outdoors, learn in a safe environment, and envision new career paths.
ELSO empowers Black and Brown youth through culturally affirming STEAM and nature-based education. Our programs provide hands-on learning, mentorship, and career pathways. We aim to cultivate generations of innovators and problem solvers, fostering environmental literacy and scientific thinking from early childhood through young adulthood. ELSO is committed to creating a diverse future in STEAM by providing opportunities and representation that inspire and empower.
Founded in 2015 by two Black women, ELSO Inc. is redefining environmental education through our mission to teach and frame science and nature-based education through a lens that centers and elevates the stories, ways of knowing, individual needs, and lived experiences of Black and Brown communities.
Studio Justice is ELSO’s design program, which consists of paid after-school programs and community outreach events for Black, Brown, Indigenous, and Asian youth to learn about design as a tool for racial and social justice.
Empowering Black and Brown youth through architecture, engineering, and design programs.
The Studio Justice Initiative offers hands-on design and engineering experiences to Black and Brown youth.
Our program connects students with professional mentors and provides pathways to careers in the built environment.
Tappin’ Roots internships provide paid learning experiences in conservation and technical skills.
Through our environmental internships, high school students gain hands-on experience and mentorship in green careers, paving the way for future job opportunities.
Our programs prepare students for green careers with real-world projects and professional mentorship.
Program Innovation
Wayfinders Program is a STEAM and nature-based camp for K-8 students that combines science, nature, and cultural education, helping kids develop environmental literacy and a love for learning.
Wayfinders camps offer week-long adventures in nature, science projects, and guest lectures from professionals of color.
Our camps are designed to foster a lifelong love of learning and curiosity about the world.
Community Events & Forums
Learn about ELSO's Community Events and How You Can Join!
If you’re looking for fun and rewarding opportunities to connect with like-minded community members or expand your contributions to ELSO’s work, you've come to the right place. Join our community events to immerse yourself in a vibrant network of parents, professionals, and experts in various STEAM related industries and learn about the unique ways that you can contribute to enriching our youth’s futures.
