All sessions will be one-hour in length. Sessions can be formatted as 45-minute presentations followed with Q+A with audience, or as panel presentations in which multiple people present and/or participate in a facilitated discussion.

This year we will have 12 educational sessions presented on Friday, October 25, 2024, hosted at the DECC.

All proposals will be peer-reviewed and selected based on relevance and appropriateness for this conference. Because of the limited number of program times available, not all proposals are guaranteed a place on the schedule. All participants submitting a proposal will be notified of their acceptance by August 2024.

Presenters will be given one complimentary event ticket for Friday, October 25, which includes lunch on the day of the Summit. All other conference expenses are the responsibility of the presenter including but not limited to transportation, lodging, and meals.

We recognize that financial constraints may pose challenges for some presenters. To address this, discounted lodging and financial assistance may be available; please inquire at GreatLakesOutdoorSummit@gmail.com for more information.

In the face of many environmental challenges, the urgency for sustainable practices and responsible resource management has never been more apparent. How do we continue to adapt to a changing climate while stewarding the places we love? What are innovative solutions to creating a more sustainable outdoor recreation future?

Fostering a deeper connection between people and the outdoors is central to community well-being. These sessions will highlight successful community-driven projects and initiatives that have positively impacted outdoor recreation while sharing stories on how the wider community was involved or utilized in the planning, advocacy, implementation, and promotion of this work. From trail maintenance and park restoration, to the development of recreational programs that address local needs, these stories will be an inspiration for communities far and wide.

In the dynamic landscape of outdoor nonprofit organizations, the pursuit of impactful missions requires continuous growth and resilience. These sessions aim to empower nonprofits with the knowledge, tools, and connections needed to enhance their capacity and effectiveness. Explore innovative strategies, share best practices, and forge collaborations that will elevate the outdoor recreation sector as a whole.

Outdoor recreation plays a pivotal role in economic development and sustainability. These sessions aim to explore and navigate the dynamic economic landscape of outdoor recreation and the intersection of private, non-profit, and public sectors. Examples could include economic impact assessments, sustainable and equitable tourism strategies, community development through recreation, and partnerships.

These sessions dive into the critical intersection of government and policy and its impact on shaping the future of our outdoor spaces. How can nonprofits partner with various government agencies to create policy that promotes and supports our work around outdoor recreation?