Howdy Doody Buckaroonies,

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My name is Elijah Riley, and I am a Conservation Storyteller.

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Born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska, I currently attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, studying Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Communications and Entrepreneurship in the Engler program. As a photographer, videographer, and ultimately a storyteller, I illustrate stories about the natural world through photos, videos, and thoughtful words. My intent is to educate audiences about natural resources and inspire them to explore nature.

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Big Gumdrop Outdoors (BGO) is the realization of my passion and vision. BGO was founded to educate urban youth about nature and inspire them to explore the great outdoors. We believe it is vital for youth to have representation and see someone that looks like them in a field. This allows them to feel comfortable and confident within themselves to explore the unknown. BGO is a non-profit organization based in Lincoln, Nebraska. We address a significant issue: today’s youth spend an average of 7.5 hours per day in front of screens, leading to a disconnect from the natural world and a lack of diversity in the outdoor industry.

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Growing up, I had a strong attraction to the outdoors, fueled by fishing and camping trips. However, without an outdoors-oriented family, I turned to various forms of outdoor media to learn. When I was old enough to drive, I began hunting and exploring new activities that kept me outdoors. These experiences highlighted the lack of representation and resources for urban youth like myself, inspiring me to create BGO.

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Through partnerships with after-school programs, summer camps, daycares, and community centers, BGO provides marginalized urban youth with access to outdoor education. We offer comprehensive lesson plans and immersive activities designed to expose youth to various outdoor topics, careers, and experiences. Our programs focus on hands-on education and multimedia storytelling, making learning engaging and impactful.

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In 2023, BGO conducted an 8-week program at the Clyde Malone Center, engaging youth in various outdoor activities. We also organized community outreach events, such as park clean-ups and fishing clinics, reaching close to 1,500 youth in Southeastern Nebraska. These efforts demonstrate that kids who play outside are smarter, happier, more attentive, and less anxious than those who spend more time indoors.

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Looking ahead, BGO plans to expand our summer programs and establish more after-school partnerships, ultimately creating a pipeline of outdoor education from elementary to high school. By continuing to promote outdoor participation among youth, we aim to foster long-term engagement and cultivate a new generation of nature enthusiasts who are diverse, engaged, and empowered.

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At Big Gumdrop Outdoors, we believe in the transformative power of nature. By supporting our mission, you are helping to build confident, creative, and responsible young leaders who will carry these values into their communities. Join us in making a lasting impact—whether by volunteering, donating, or partnering with us, your involvement makes a difference. Together, we can inspire the next generation to connect with nature and each other.

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My goal is to inspire people to go out into nature and explore the endless opportunities. Around every turn, under every rock, over every hilltop, there are limitless stories waiting to be told. I implore each and every one of you to get out there and tell them!