#OptOutside Initiative in New York City

Written by Stephanie Taylor, Editor-in-Chief, Intelligent Luxury


#OptOutside I walk in Central Park on the island of Manhattan in New York City.

"Opt to Act NYC starts with a month of action and stewardship throughout November that helps kick off a year of positive change for every New Yorker that participates. Partners holding events for the month of action include NYC Parks, Natural Areas Conservancy, Transportation Alternatives, NYC Mountain Bike Association, New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, Concerned Long Island Mountain Bicyclists and Prospect Park Alliance," stated a representative from the City of New York.

“Countless studies have shown that parks positively affect the communities around them. In addition to beautifying our city, parks play an integral role in the mental and physical health of New Yorkers,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, FAICP. “I’m proud to support the Opt to Act campaign, and urge everyone to become stewards and advocates for their local greenspaces, through this program and beyond.”

“There are nearly 20,000 acres of natural areas across the entire city, and our goal is to ensure that the precious forests and coastlines we have remain healthy and resilient for generations to come," said Elizabeth Jaeger, Deputy Director of Programs at NAC. "Volunteerism and community engagement in caring for these areas are a critical part of that, so we are thrilled to partner with REI and the Mayor's Office to offer even more opportunities for New Yorkers to mobilize, enjoy, and help steward their local nature." 

“DemocracyNYC is thrilled to partner with the Mayor's Office of Sustainability and REI to raise awareness about how exercising your right to vote can move the needle on an issue as critical as climate change. We look forward to working together to make sure every New Yorker knows their voice has the power to impact the things that matter most to them,” said Rini Fonseca-Sabune, Chief Democracy Officer

“Spending time outdoors in natural areas can have a positive effect on health, including blood pressure, depression, and physical activity levels,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot. “This campaign also provides opportunities to interact with neighbors in parks and green spaces, which can encourage social ties and connections to the community.”

To learn more, stay up-to-date on Opt to Act NYC initiatives, and get involved, click rei.com/nyc here.