Amid the constant motion of city life, Manny Almonte found inspiration to create Camping to Connect.
Living as an immigrant in Brooklyn, NY, Manny Almonte experienced firsthand the pressures of urban life and how it can shape one’s identity.
It wasn’t until his first camping and hiking weekend trip, that he experienced the kind of clarity, perspective, and peace only found in nature. He shared a heartfelt conversation alongside peers who shared similar frustrations about the lack of inclusive, restorative outdoor spaces, as well as the financial, educational and mental barriers that have historically kept people of color away from outdoor recreation.
These shared reflections highlighted a broader reality: according to a 2016 study by the Conservation Science Partners and the Center for American Progress, 74% of communities of color live in nature-deprived areas.
Ultimately, this sparked the idea to create Camping to Connect—a nonprofit organization that blends outdoor adventure with intentional, culturally relevant mentorship to help young men of color feel empowered and seen.
“We recognized that connecting with nature could be a powerful way to disconnect from urban stress, reflect on personal growth, and build meaningful relationships.”
Manny Almonte
Founder of Camping to Connect
A weekend of transformation
The energy during one of Camping to Connect’s weekend trips is electric, filled with mix of emotions.
When campers first arrive, excitement, nervousness, and at times, resistance, is felt throughout the group. For many, it’s their first time stepping into a wilderness setting, far removed from the noise and hustle of city life.
But as the weekend unfolds, any initial apprehension starts to dissipate. Guided hikes, shared cooking, and intimate campfire conversations gradually break down barriers and build trust among the group. Campers often remark on how they can “breathe”—both literally and metaphorically. They start to appreciate the fresh air, the expansive night sky, and the empowering sense of accomplishment from hiking trails they initially doubted they could conquer.
They leave with a renewed sense of connection—both to nature and to one another. “It’s not uncommon for campers to describe it as a life-changing experience, one that helped them connect with themselves, nature and with other participants,” Manny says.
“By the end of the trip, the transformation is palpable. They leave with a new sense of clarity, confidence, and community.”
Manny Almonte
Founder of Camping to Connect
Looking ahead to new horizons
Manny envisions Camping to Connect evolving into a national movement with the goal to replicate the mentorship model in cities across the United States, and help more young men of color experience the transformative powers of nature.
Ultimately, he hopes for Black and Brown representation in the outdoors to become normalized. To not only be in the conversation, but to be the driving force behind it —as conservationists, adventurers, and advocates for environmental stewardship.
“The narrative that ‘camping and hiking is not for us’ needs to be dismantled. I want to see people of color not just participating, but leading in outdoor spaces.”
Manny Almonte
Founder of Camping to Connect
Camping to Connect has been a nonprofit partner of AllTrails since 2020, and we look forward to continuing our support towards their efforts in creating a more inclusive and equitable outdoors.
Join us in supporting Camping to Connect
Learn how you can make a donation to help further their mission.
Campfire chat with Manny
Watch the award-winning documentary, “Wood Hood” with Manny and learn more about Camping to Connect on 02/27/2025 at 6:00 pm at the REI Denver Store.
Register for the event
About AllTrails
AllTrails is the world’s most popular and trusted platform for outdoor exploration. We connect people to the outdoors, help them discover new places, and elevate their experiences on the trail. With the most comprehensive collection of trails in the world, AllTrails supports inclusive access to nature for a global community of millions of trailgoers. Download AllTrails in the Apple App Store, Google Play Store or visit AllTrails.com to learn more.
