CHARITY SPOTLIGHT viewed as spaces for those with privilege, largely due to their high costs. These activities often require transportation, permits and specialized instruction, making outdoor recreation even less accessible to underrepresented communities. To combat this, the organization provides most adventures free of charge, with a suggested donation of $30 to cover gear, meals, merchandise and any applicable adventure fees, such as park entrance. Scholarships are also available to ensure accessibility for all participants. Most Surprising Thing About the Organization A surprising aspect of Atabey Outdoors is its leadership composition. Currently, all outdoor mentors and administrative team members are people of color. This representation addresses the historical lack of diversity in outdoor spaces and provides relatable role models for participants. Program Highlight One standout initiative, the Junior Outdoor Mentor Program, empowers youth ages 11–12 to develop leadership skills by guiding and mentoring younger girls. This program encourages them to build confidence, develop mentorship skills and stay engaged with Atabey Outdoors into their teen years. Fostering a sense of responsibility and community helps create a lasting connection to the outdoors and the organization. Recent Challenges Atabey Outdoors faces growing challenges due to recent federal policies that dismantle diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, including a 2025 executive order restricting diversity programs in federal agencies and among federal contractors. “These changes threaten funding and partnerships for organizations like Atabey Outdoors, which prioritize safe, inclusive outdoor experiences for BIPOC youth,” Gomez said. “Despite these obstacles, the organization remains committed to its mission, continuing to provide programs that foster social, emotional and physical growth while navigating an increasingly restrictive policy landscape.” Future In the coming months, Atabey Outdoors aims to expand access to outdoor adventures at little to no cost, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent BIPOC youth from experiencing nature. “We are also encouraging families and siblings to join our adventures, fostering a deeper connection to the outdoors as a shared experience,” Gomez said. The organization is introducing new training programs, such as Wilderness First Aid and Summer Camp, to equip participants with essential skills and leadership opportunities that will empower them to thrive in outdoor spaces. To learn more, visit atabeyoutdoors.com . 68 | FRONTDOORS MAGAZINE Atabey Outdoors blends outdoor adventure with enrichment activities that encourage social, emotional, physical and mental growth.

FRONTDOORS MAGAZINE | 69 A Taste of Wine Country From Michelin-starred meals to bold wine pairings, discover the ultimate Northern California escape BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ N early 50 years ago, a Northern California couple purchased an old building with quite a history. During the Wild West era, it was a saloon, and then later it served as a large, French-style laundry facility. The enterprising couple would turn the space into a restaurant. As this restaurant’s reputation as a culinary mecca grew, so did the surrounding area’s reputation as a winemaker and wine lover’s paradise. The restaurant, as one might have guessed, is the French Laundry . That would make the surrounding regions Napa and Sonoma. Valley residents are likely already familiar with them. Perhaps some have even visited a time or two, given FROM THE ROAD the direct daily flights between Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport. But Napa and Sonoma are vast regions, not small towns with a few tasting rooms, so planning the perfect gastronomic adventure to the Northern California gem can be tough. Do not try to do everything at once, because it is impossible. To give perspective, the combined region stretches roughly the distance from Phoenix to Sedona and boasts more than 800 collective wineries. Instead, choose one or two regions as home base, and then curate the itinerary with the best and brightest attractions in each. If seeking the ultimate culinary escape, look no further than the Wine Road and Yountville.