The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Black Folks Camp Too (BFCT) today announced a partnership to launch the Unity Blaze “Return on Inclusion” training program for all Indiana DNR employees.
More than 1,300 Indiana DNR employees have already completed the program, making Indiana the first state DNR system to become Unity Blaze Certified. The Unity Blaze training program is a comprehensive online curriculum that educates participants on how to create a more inclusive outdoor experience for all folks. The program covers a wide range of topics, including:
- The history of outdoor recreation and the barriers that have traditionally prevented many communities of color from participating.
- How to explore and identify assumptions regarding access to the outdoors and communities of color.
- How to create a more inviting and welcoming environment for all visitors.
- How to develop and implement programs and services that meet the needs of all communities.
The Indiana DNR launched the Unity Blaze training program this fall as part of its commitment to creating a more inclusive and welcoming outdoor experience for all visitors.
“Across Indiana, our DNR mission is to protect, enhance, preserve and wisely use our state’s resources,” said Dan Bortner, Indiana DNR director. “Through this ongoing partnership, we are committed to continued trainings with our entire DNR team to help more Hoosiers feel invited and welcome to explore Indiana’s great outdoors with us. By actively welcoming more people who may have historically spent less time outdoors, we look forward to furthering our important mission now and for generations to come.”
“Education is the key to unlocking better ways to service consumers. Partnering with Indiana DNR to launch the Unity Blaze training program for its employees is a monumental step to increase unity in the outdoor community and beyond,” said Earl B. Hunter Jr., founder and president of Black Folks Camp Too. “The Unity Blaze symbol is the campfire in our logo, and it means ‘You are Invited and Welcomed.’ We commend Indiana DNR’s commitment to making sure that everyone is invited and welcomed in their parks and recreation areas regardless of their race, age, gender or ability. Together, we are changing the world… one campfire at a time!”
The foundational training program is the first step in a multi-year program to help increase ROI (Return on Inclusion) for the Indiana DNR. The full program features quarterly training modules that will commence in January 2024 and run through 2026.
To learn more about the Unity Blaze training program, please visit edu.blackfolkscamptoo.com