Meinig Family- Raising Money for LOWA Vans!

Hey family and friends, 

As many of you know, I have been a Live Oak camper for the past several years.  Live Oak is a leadership development camp for New Orleans kids.  I have made so many friends, had so many great summers, and LOVE Live Oak. 

Two years ago, Live Oak started a side program called Wilderness Adventure (LOWA).  LOWA is an adventure based camping trip where we go backpacking all over the South! The special thing about LOWA is that they are intentional. Their mission isn’t just about being in the woods, it is about creating a safe space for kids of all shapes, sizes, colors and backgrounds to have amazing adventures and grow as humans in some of the most beautiful places in our country. 

(Our very first group summiting Black Balsam Knob in North Carolina!)

LOWA has taken kids on trips to North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama and even Big Bend, Texas. But there are a lot of programs that do that. The difference for LOWA is that they are creating diverse spaces and access for all kids so that anyone can go, regardless of their income, their experience, or race. Did you know that 80% of all people who visited a national park last year identified as white (non-hispanic)? Access to nature shouldn’t be a thing for just one race. It should be for all people, and that is why LOWA exists. 

Every year LOWA raises money.  These fundraising efforts are to eliminate any barriers a kid could have to going on a trip. They offer scholarships. They offer gear. They provide transportation. They want all people to succeed in the wild. 

Last year we realized that if we didn’t spend so much money renting vans, we could use that money where it belongs, making sure every kid has access to go on these trips. So we are asking for your help to buy two new 15 passenger vans. 

It is going to cost about 100k in total for these vans. It seems a lot, but they already have raised about half in donations.  So my family and I are trying to do our part and raise $225 to the cause!

 (This group did a desert trip where they had to carry all of their water with no refills. They were pumped to end hiking up the Rio Grand through Big Bend, Texas!)

So I am asking for your support. Please consider donating towards this campaign because it isn’t just a donation that lasts today, these vans will make these trips accessible for campers for years and years to come. 

Thank you so much for your donation and thanks for making moments like the one below a possibility!

(Watching the sunset over the desert. Hopefully next sunset will be on our very own van because of your support!!!)