If you could go back in time and give your younger self advice, what would it be?
If I could go back in time and offer my younger self advice, it would be this:
“Don’t spend your life trying to prove your worth to people who haven’t recognized their own. Your value was never theirs to determine.”
I would also say:
* Trust your purpose, even when others cannot see your vision.
* Protect your peace. Not every battle deserves your energy.
* Invest in relationships, not just achievements. What you build with others will outlive what you accumulate.
* Learn the difference between helping people and carrying their burdens. You can love people without losing yourself.
* Don’t mistake rejection for failure. Sometimes a closed door is protection or redirection.
* Make time for joy. Life isn’t just about the work you accomplish; it’s about the moments you experience.
* Give yourself the same grace you so freely extend to others.
And perhaps the most important lesson:
“You don’t have to wait until the end of your journey to recognize the significance of your life. Celebrate the growth, honor the struggles, and appreciate who you’re becoming.”
I’d leave my younger self with three words:
Live. Love. Become.
And I’d turn the question toward you, especially given your decades of leadership, music, community building, and working with young people:
If you could sit across from your 18-year-old self for just 10 minutes, what is the one truth you would want him to understand about life, love, leadership, and purpose?
Violence is not limited to one race, one neighborhood, one political party, one city, or one region of America.
It exists in large cities, small towns, suburbs, rural communities, schools, workplaces, homes, public spaces, and places many people once considered insulated from serious conflict.
Violence is prevalent everywhere—even in Idaho.
Idaho may be known for mountains, open spaces, agriculture, outdoor recreation, and close-knit communities. However, beautiful surroundings do not make a community immune from domestic violence, sexual assault, youth conflict, firearm injuries, suicide, hate crimes, substance-related violence, or other forms of harm.
The Idaho State Police recently released its 2025 Crime in Idaho Report, compiling information submitted by law-enforcement agencies throughout the state. The report examines crimes against people, property and society, as well as arrests, hate crimes, assaults against law-enforcement officers, and crime patterns across individual jurisdictions.
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare also maintains a Violent Death Reporting System because violence is not only a criminal-justice issue—it is a public-health issue. The system collects information about violent deaths so communities can develop targeted, evidence-informed prevention strategies.
In 2024, Idaho recorded 331 firearm deaths, representing an age-adjusted firearm mortality rate of 15.9 deaths per 100,000 residents. That number includes more than crime statistics alone can explain. It represents families, children, neighbors, classmates, coworkers, survivors, and communities forever changed by loss.
People of all ages join hands to promote peace and end violence in their neighborhood
Idaho also continues to confront a serious suicide crisis. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare reports that the state had the fourth-highest suicide rate in the nation in 2023.
These realities should challenge the belief that violence belongs only to certain communities.
We Must Stop Stereotyping Violence
Too often, violence is portrayed as something that happens primarily in Black neighborhoods, impoverished communities, or major metropolitan areas.
When violence occurs in communities of color, people may blame the culture, the parents, the neighborhood, or the young people themselves.
When similar violence occurs in rural, suburban, or predominantly white communities, the public conversation often changes. People begin discussing isolation, mental health, family stress, economic hardship, substance use, trauma, access to firearms, or the need for additional services.
Every community deserves that deeper level of understanding.
A rusty chain breaking apart over cracked pavement with green plants growing through
We should not excuse harmful conduct, but we must examine the conditions surrounding it. Violence is rarely created by one single factor. It can grow from unresolved trauma, hopelessness, neglect, family instability, social isolation, bullying, untreated behavioral-health needs, poverty, substance misuse, easy access to weapons, or a lack of trusted adults and constructive opportunities.
The question cannot only be:
“What is wrong with these young people?”
We must also ask:
“What happened to them?”
“What resources were missing?”
“Who was present before the crisis?”
“What positive choices and opportunities were available?”
Prevention Must Begin Before an Emergency
Communities cannot arrest their way out of every problem.
Law enforcement has an essential public-safety role, especially when immediate danger is present. However, police officers are often called after relationships have deteriorated, warning signs have been missed, and a conflict has already escalated.
Real prevention begins much earlier.
It begins with strong families, caring adults, responsible schools, culturally responsive mentors, neighborhood organizations, recreation professionals, behavioral-health providers, faith communities, youth workers, credible messengers, and law-enforcement agencies willing to collaborate.
Young people need safe places to gather, trusted adults to speak with, positive recreational experiences, leadership opportunities, employment pathways, and meaningful ways to contribute to their communities.
They also need access to nature.
Outdoor recreation can create opportunities for movement, reflection, relationship building, emotional regulation, leadership, and healing. A hike, camping experience, conservation project, recreation program, or outdoor workforce opportunity will not solve every problem. However, these experiences can become part of a broader prevention system that helps young people feel connected, capable, supported, and hopeful.
Idaho Has an Opportunity to Lead
Idaho is experiencing population growth and increasing diversity. With that growth comes an opportunity to build stronger connections among longtime residents, new families, underserved communities, tribal communities, rural residents, young people, educators, law enforcement, outdoor organizations, and workforce-development partners.
Communities should invest in strategies that:
Engage young people before they become involved in violence.
Prepare recreation and youth-development professionals to identify trauma and conflict.
Connect youth with careers, internships, apprenticeships, and environmental education.
Expand behavioral-health and family-support services.
Promote responsible firearm storage and community safety.
Develop partnerships among law enforcement, schools, parks, recreation departments, and community organizations.
Create culturally responsive outdoor and nature-based healing opportunities.
Give youth a meaningful voice in designing the programs intended to serve them.
Violence prevention should not be something a community begins discussing only after a shooting, assault, suicide, or public tragedy.
Prevention must become part of how communities plan, budget, educate, recreate, hire, mentor, and care for one another.
Violence Has No Zip Code
No community should look at another community’s tragedy and say, “That could never happen here.”
It can happen here.
It can happen there.
It can happen anywhere people feel disconnected, traumatized, desperate, angry, ignored, or without hope.
That is not a reason to live in fear. It is a reason to act with greater purpose.
Our responsibility is to create communities where children and families are surrounded by opportunity before they are surrounded by crisis.
Violence may be prevalent everywhere, but so are courage, compassion, faith, creativity, leadership, and the capacity to heal.
Let us stop assigning violence to a particular race, city, or neighborhood.
Let us recognize it as a shared human and public-health challenge—and build solutions together.
All people. All nations. All races. We are all human beings sharing the same communities, lands, and responsibility for one another.
An outdoor youth program developer, Bembry Consulting collaborates with community-based organizations to create fun and innovative team-building activities to empower young people.
The MLK March 2026 was a powerful experience, commemorating the enduring legacy of Dr. King through youth voice, leadership, and action.
March for Equity
Young people showed up standing for justice, truth, and civility—embodying the very principles that shaped the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. In this season, youth are deeply engaged and activated to lead meaningful change. Their energy, courage, and clarity remind us that progress is driven by those willing to speak up and step forward. Let us continue working together toward a more just, more compassionate, and more civil society—in America and across the world.
Racism should not be tolerated We don’t hold space for these views any longer however they still exist, and some hold these truths to be self-evident! Let’s learn grow and change together! #Race and Social Justice, Outdoor Equity, Climate Resiliency! Workforce Development, Intellectual Capital. How would you address this are your family gathering? Let’s hear from our allies!
Harmony is Possible
50+ Year Friendship with my good Friend David/Calib
Racism is a persistent issue that requires our collective effort to address and eradicate. By acknowledging its existence and actively working towards peace and equality, we can create a more just and inclusive society. Let’s continue to educate ourselves, challenge prejudices, and support one another in this journey. Together, we can make a difference. 💪🏽
What steps can we take to promote understanding and unity in our communities?
Racism is a deeply ingrained issue that requires continuous effort to address and dismantle. It’s important to have open and honest conversations about it, even in family gatherings. Here are some ways to approach this topic:
Educate and Inform: Share historical and current examples of racism and its impact. Use resources like books, documentaries, and articles to provide context and understanding.
Listen and Validate: Encourage family members to share their experiences and feelings. Validate their emotions and experiences without judgment.
Challenge Prejudices: Gently challenge any racist remarks or beliefs. Use facts and empathy to explain why such views are harmful and incorrect.
Promote Inclusivity: Advocate for inclusive language and behavior. Encourage family members to be mindful of their words and actions.
Lead by Example: Demonstrate anti-racist behavior in your own actions. Show that you are committed to learning, growing, and changing.
Encourage Action: Suggest ways to support racial justice, such as participating in community events, supporting minority-owned businesses, and advocating for policy changes.
It’s not always easy, but these conversations are crucial for creating a more just and equitable society. Let’s keep pushing for change together
The vision for BIPOC communities about the Outdoor Equity Coalition (BOE-TIE) and related initiatives revolves around fostering an inclusive and equitable environment that connects all individuals to nature. This vision emphasizes the importance of pro-equity approaches over mere equality, recognizing the unique barriers and needs of BIPOC communities in accessing outdoor spaces and opportunities.
Vision for BIPOC Communities
1. Creating Accessible Outdoor Spaces:
Develop and maintain outdoor spaces that are welcoming and accessible to BIPOC communities.
Address physical, economic, and cultural barriers that prevent BIPOC individuals from enjoying nature.
2. Promoting Mental and Physical Health:
Encourage the use of outdoor activities as a means to improve mental and physical health.
Highlight the therapeutic benefits of nature and its role in stress reduction and overall well-being.
3. Cultural Reconnection and Community Building:
Facilitate programs that help BIPOC communities reconnect with their cultural heritage through nature.
Strengthen community bonds by promoting group activities and events in outdoor settings.
4. Educational and Economic Opportunities:
Provide educational programs that teach BIPOC youth and adults about environmental stewardship and conservation.
Create job training and employment opportunities in the outdoor and environmental sectors.
5. Advocacy and Policy Change:
Advocate for policies that ensure equitable access to outdoor spaces for BIPOC communities.
Work towards systemic change to address historical and ongoing inequities in outdoor recreation and environmental protection.
Pro-Equity vs. Equality
Understanding the distinction between pro-equity and equality is crucial in implementing effective initiatives:
Equality:
Equality involves treating everyone equally, regardless of their unique needs or circumstances.
It assumes a level playing field, which often overlooks historical and systemic disadvantages faced by BIPOC communities.
Pro-Equity:
Pro-equity focuses on fairness and justice, recognizing that different groups may require different resources and opportunities to achieve similar outcomes.
It aims to address and rectify the disparities by providing targeted support and resources to those who have been marginalized.
Connecting Us All in Nature
1. Inclusive Program Development:
Design outdoor programs and activities that reflect the diverse interests and cultural backgrounds of BIPOC communities.
Ensure representation and leadership from BIPOC individuals in the planning and implementation of these programs.
2. Community Engagement and Collaboration:
Engage with BIPOC communities to understand their needs and preferences regarding outdoor activities.
Foster partnerships with local organizations, schools, and community groups to create a network of support.
3. Celebrating Diversity in Nature:
Host events and festivals that celebrate the diverse cultures and traditions of BIPOC communities in outdoor settings.
Use storytelling, art, and music to highlight the rich cultural connections to nature.
4. Sustainable and Inclusive Practices:
Promote sustainable practices that protect the environment while ensuring that BIPOC communities can benefit from natural resources.
Address environmental justice issues that disproportionately affect BIPOC communities, such as pollution and lack of green spaces.
Conclusion
The vision for BIPOC communities within the Outdoor Equity Coalition (BOE-TIE) and related initiatives is to create a future where nature is a shared and equitable resource. By adopting a pro-equity approach, we can ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, can access, enjoy, and benefit from the natural world. This vision not only enhances individual well-being but also strengthens community ties and fosters a deeper connection to nature for everyone.
Reco Bembry: A Beacon of Leadership in Youth Development
Reco Bembry stands as a testament to the power of dedication and leadership in the realm of youth development. With a career spanning over four decades, Bembry has been a pivotal figure in empowering young people across various communities. His work, rooted in a deep commitment to service delivery and institution building, has left an indelible mark on the field.
My Youth Development Journey
Bembry’s journey in youth development began with the founding of the Seattle Teen Programming Unit, a beacon of hope and growth for teens. The unit’s Late-Night Recreation program is a standout initiative, providing a safe haven for teens to engage in positive activities during the evening hours. This program, alongside the Teen Summer Musical Program and the National Youth Congress Program, showcases Bembry’s innovative approach to youth engagement and leadership.
Academic Achievements
His academic achievements are equally impressive, with a background in music performance and composition from the Cornish Institute of Allied Arts and a stint at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) as a Community Fellow, winning the coveted Youth Worker of the Decade. These experiences have undoubtedly shaped his holistic approach to youth development.
Senior Consultant NRPA, WRPA and more…
As a senior consultant for the National Recreation and Parks Association, Bembry has worked tirelessly to create career pathways for underserved Black communities. His efforts in expanding the Totally Cool Totally Art program demonstrate his commitment to cultural enrichment and artistic expression among teens.
Senior Consultant NRPA Moreover, Bembry’s influence extends beyond program development. He is a seasoned keynote speaker, having graced numerous national, regional, and state conferences, where he has advocated for teen programming issues. His published journal writings and articles delve into critical topics such as workforce development and 21st-century youth development strategies, offering valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the field.
Reco Bembry’s unwavering commitment to youth development is a source of inspiration for many. His legacy is a reminder that with passion, innovation, and leadership, one can make a significant impact on the lives of young people and the communities they inhabit.
The Big Tent Coalition is a visionary model for the future of outdoor recreation, conservation, and water safety. It is based on three pillars that I propose we prioritize for the next 5-7 years: sustainability, accessibility, and visibility.
Sustainability means finding and securing diverse sources of funding that can support our work and ensure its long-term viability. It also means aligning our goals with the Outdoor Equity Coalition, which advocates for equitable access and representation in the outdoors for historically marginalized communities. By joining forces with them, we can amplify our impact and reach more people who share our vision.
Accessibility means reducing and eliminating the barriers that prevent people from enjoying the outdoors, such as lack of transportation, equipment, information, or skills. It also means creating more opportunities for people to engage in outdoor activities that suit their interests, abilities, and needs. We want to make the outdoors a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone, regardless of their background, identity, or experience.
Visibility means raising the profile and reputation of the Big Tent Coalition as a leader and innovator in the outdoor sector. It also means creating a more engaging and attractive brand that reflects our values, mission, and vision. We want to showcase our work, programs, and achievements to the public, policymakers, media, and potential partners. We also want to highlight and celebrate the voices and stories of our diverse members and participants.
To achieve these goals, I suggest we adopt a participatory governance structure that allows for more input and feedback from our stakeholders. I also suggest we design our model to be scalable and replicable so that we can expand our reach and influence to other regions and states. The Big Tent Coalition is not just a coalition; it is a movement. And we have the potential to transform the outdoor landscape for the better.
How can we promote outdoor equity and restorative justice for BIPOC communities? This is the question that guides our work. Nature Heals the Mind-body and Spirit, outdoor recreation offers ecotherapy for people of color who experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, and institutional racism. We believe that nature is a powerful healing vehicle that can help us reconnect with ourselves, our ancestors, and our environment. We also believe that everyone deserves access to the beauty and benefits of nature, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, class, or ability.
In this blog post, we will share some of the challenges and opportunities that we face as we try to remove the barriers to the participation of BIPOC community members in outdoor activities. We will also highlight some of the best practices and strategies that we use to create inclusive, safe, and empowering spaces for our participants. We hope that by sharing our experiences and insights, we can inspire other organizations and individuals who are interested in advancing outdoor equity and restorative justice for BIPOC communities.
Challenges & Barriers
Ancestral Healing
Ancestral Healing Outdoors for all people
Ancestral healing is a process of reconnecting with your roots and honoring your ancestors
It can help you heal from intergenerational trauma, reclaim your identity, and access ancestral wisdom
The outdoors is a natural setting for ancestral healing, as it allows you to connect with the elements, the land, and the spirits of nature
All people can benefit from ancestral healing, regardless of their background, culture, or ethnicity
Some ways to practice ancestral healing in the outdoors are:
Create an altar or a sacred space for your ancestors, using natural objects, photos, or symbols
Offer gratitude, prayers, or gifts to your ancestors, and ask for their guidance and protection
Meditate, journal, or do a ritual to communicate with your ancestors and receive their messages
Explore your ancestral lands or places that resonate with your heritage, and learn about their history and culture
Engage in activities that honor your ancestral traditions, such as music, dance, art, or storytelling
Some of the challenges and opportunities that we face as we try to remove the barriers to the participation of BIPOC community members in outdoor activities are:
Lack of representation and role models in outdoor media and leadership positions
Opportunity to create more inclusive and diverse narratives and stories that celebrate the contributions and experiences of BIPOC outdoor enthusiasts
Limited access and affordability of outdoor equipment, transportation, and spaces
Opportunity to partner with local organizations and businesses that support and empower BIPOC communities to access and enjoy the outdoors
Cultural and historical trauma and mistrust associated with certain outdoor activities or environments
Opportunity to acknowledge and address the impacts of colonization, racism, and oppression on the relationship between BIPOC communities and the land
Different preferences, motivations, and expectations for engaging in outdoor activities
Opportunity to respect and honor the diversity of perspectives, values, and needs of BIPOC outdoor participants.
Solutions
Organize outdoor activities with friends and family from diverse backgrounds and invite them to join you
Share stories and experiences of BIPOC role models who have a passion for nature and environmental justice
Support local organizations and initiatives that promote access and inclusion for BIPOC communities in natural spaces
Educate yourself and others about the history and culture of the lands you visit and respect the rights of Indigenous peoples
Celebrate the diversity and beauty of nature and how it can inspire creativity, wellness, and connection
Share stories and experiences of BIPOC role models who have a passion for nature and environmental justice, such as John Francis, Rue Mapp, or José González, Outdoor Equity Coalition, Big Tent Coalition of Washington State
Support local organizations and initiatives that promote access and inclusion for BIPOC communities in natural spaces
Educate yourself and others about the history and culture of the lands you visit and respect the rights of Indigenous peoples
Celebrate the diversity and beauty of nature and how it can inspire creativity, wellness, and connection
A scraper bike is a bicycle that has been modified by its owner, often with decorated spokes with matching body and wheel colors, using tinfoil, re-used cardboard, candy wrappers and paint. The bike frames themselves are also modified with BMX frames, heightened seats, or custom pieces to create unique bicycles.
BLUES REPORT Interviews Farmers Market, Federal Way Wa,
Host: Reco Bembry
This podcast is made possible by support from BUILD206 B.U.I.L.D. Brothers United in Leadership Development, and voices like yours! — Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/recoach/message
In this session, we have interviews with Law Makers, Community Advocates for Change, and BIPOC family members discussing impacts and solutions to address the harms done by the Carceral State. Incarceration, probation, police brutality, and inequity in the criminal justice system. The Carceral state cripples our BIPOC economy, removes the potential for great leadership, separates fathers, mothers, siblings, and erodes the traditional family structure. The carceral harm leaves in its wake additional pressure, and oppression for those left to defend our community’s dignity, values, and integrity. Listen to the Peoples speak.
