Backcountry Squatters
A network of college clubs dedicated to growing women’s participation, leadership, and representation in the outdoor industry and community
Applications for the spring scholarship for outdoor education are now open
Applications are due Friday May 13th, 2022 at 11:59 PM MST.
Woman and gender-queer people who seek non-male dominated spaces in the outdoor community can apply to this scholarship and be awarded up to $600 in order to enhance their participation, leadership, or representation in the outdoor industry and community.
OPEN POSITION ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Backcountry Squatters Nonprofit is seeking a hard-working and dedicated professional to serve in a multi-year term as the Board Treasurer on the Board of Directors.
The Treasurer is responsible for overseeing the organization’s financial activity and records that align with the policies and mission of Backcountry Squatters, as well as managing the Board’s review of, and action related to the Board’s financial responsibilities.
The position is a great fit for someone who is exceptionally skilled at translating financial analytics to the Board of Directors, who understands the interests and needs of the Backcountry Squatters community, and who will enjoy working with team members to contribute to the sustainability of Backcountry Squatters. Individuals who are willing and able to dedicate time and energy to upholding the mission of Backcountry Squatters are encouraged to apply.
We are looking to fill this position immediately. For more information and the details on applying, please download the job description below.
about us
Run by ‘Squatters alumni, this 501c3 nonprofit uplifts women at a pivotal moment in their lives by connecting them in the sisterhood, growth, and empowerment of shared outdoor pursuits.
our chapters
We are opening the door to outdoor opportunities that women have historically been excluded from. With chapters established accross the nation, Backcountry Squatters is rapidly expanding. Look here to find a chapter near you.
join us
By equipping college women with vital lessons from adventure and camaraderie, we bolster future female leaders through a make-or-break time— ensuring more women rise.
on the blog
girl, lead the pack
I’ve talked with many girls on this same subject: if we are skiing with a group of guys and are in front, we almost feel uncomfortable being there. Like we shouldn’t be the ones leading the pack.
Backcountry Squatters’ Response to the Killing of George Floyd
Part of Backcountry Squatters’ mission is to increase women’s participation in spaces that have historically lacked a female presence. We are aware that women’s groups that look like Backcountry Squatters (predominantly white) have not been present in racial justice movements like the one occurring today. Backcountry Squatters aims to increase women’s participation in racial justice, too.
It’s About WE not ME
We want to talk about a raging debate in the outdoor community right now: What sort of activities should we be participating in to maintain our personal health, as well as the health of our community? Here’s our two cents: The outdoor community at large should check their privilege at the door and think about WE not ME.
It’s Okay To Unfollow People on Instagram
it's okay to unfollow people on instagram At some point along our social media journey, unfollowing became some sort of savage thing to do…. Bad break up: Unfollow. Friend fight: Unfollow. And my personal favorite, the friend of a friend is having a fight with someone...
DIY Camper Remodel
If you don’t make the same mistakes as me, you may save yourself TIME and a LOT of cursing.
Planned Parenthood: Debunking the Myths
Our very own ambassador Nina is currently working at Planned Parenthood! Here she teaches us about the badass organization that Planned Parenthood is as it empowers women and men to be in charge of their own bodies.
What our community says:
From the beginning this movement has never been about how fast we can ski, how hard we can climb, or how far we can run–it has always been about pushing the boundaries of what women perceive as possible for themselves in outdoor culture, and in-turn, society. Through my own experience with Backcountry Squatters, I’ve found a meaningful sense-of-place in my community and have gotten to do so alongside women with an array of interesting backgrounds and stories–an experience I believe every woman should get the opportunity to have.
The Backcountry Squatters were a pleasure to partner with for avalanche education. The turnout for the classes was always high and the women were excited to learn. It’s great to work with a club that is eager to offer educational opportunities, as well as fun experiences.
I am always inspired by the women I have met through Backcountry Squatters. This community has introduced me to strong, confident, and amazing women who all share a collective enthusiasm for the outdoors. By maintaining a supportive atmosphere to pursue unique goals and have fun doing it, ‘Squatters has helped me build confidence in the mountains, on the river and even in school.
I got involved with the Backcountry Squatters at DU when it first got up and running because I wanted to not only inspire girls to join the outdoor community but also help other like-minded girls to find more gal pals to go get after it with. That’s why it has been so important to me: because we need more girl support in the outdoor community and an inclusive environment where we can grow and learn from each other.