LAS VEGAS — On Saturday, Get Outdoors Nevada commemorated a quarter‑century of connecting Southern Nevada residents with the region’s natural spaces. More than 200 community members, volunteers and partner organizations gathered at the Las Vegas Civic Center and Plaza for an afternoon of fellowship, games, a silent auction and a special “25‑year trail” that showcased the nonprofit’s milestones.
Local leaders praise the organization’s legacy
Executive Director Christy Sakamoto opened the event by recalling the nonprofit’s humble beginnings in 2001 and its growth into a statewide force for outdoor stewardship. She highlighted that Get Outdoors Nevada has reached over 218,000 individuals, mobilized more than 40,000 volunteers and delivered thousands of programs focused on environmental education, volunteerism and community outreach.
U.S. Representative Dina Titus delivered remarks emphasizing the importance of preserving Nevada’s parks and public lands for future generations. “Our families and faith‑based communities thrive when we protect the natural blessings God gave us,” she said, underscoring the organization’s alignment with traditional family values and responsible stewardship.
Federal recognition and community honors
Senator Catherine Cortez Masto entered the congressional record to acknowledge Get Outdoors Nevada’s contributions, noting the nonprofit’s role in fostering a love of the outdoors among youth and adults alike. During the celebration, several local leaders were honored for their ongoing commitment to protecting Southern Nevada’s parks and public lands.
Program highlights and future vision
The “25‑year trail” display walked attendees through key achievements, from early trail‑building projects to recent school‑based environmental curricula. Volunteers described how the organization’s programs have helped children learn about conservation, encouraged families to explore hiking and biking trails, and supported community clean‑up efforts.
Looking ahead, Sakamoto outlined plans to expand outreach into underserved neighborhoods, increase partnerships with faith‑based groups, and launch new initiatives that promote outdoor recreation as a healthy, family‑centered activity. The nonprofit aims to continue its mission of connecting Nevadans of all ages with the state’s natural beauty while fostering a sense of responsibility for its preservation.
Community participation and support
Attendees enjoyed lawn games, local food vendors and a silent auction featuring outdoor gear donated by regional businesses. The event underscored the strong network of volunteers, corporate sponsors and civic partners that sustain Get Outdoors Nevada’s work.
As the celebration concluded, participants expressed optimism that the organization’s next 25 years will see even greater involvement from families, churches and schools, ensuring that Nevada’s outdoor heritage remains a vibrant part of community life.
Original reporting: News 3 KSNV Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
