The Redford Center

Our Nature Connection is a short film series spotlighting REI Cooperative Action Fund grantees whose work reinforces the belief that we are nature, inseparable and interdependent. Through these films, The Redford Center and REI Fund highlight communities deepening their connection to the natural world, revealing how time in nature restores health, well-being, and our sense of belonging on this planet.
In partnership with 

Boyz N The Wood

What Happens When Black Men Are Given Space to Breathe?

Boyz N The Wood: Resilience in the Redwoods, directed by Faith Briggs Rose, follows a group of Black men stepping into the redwoods to reconnect with themselves, with each other, and something deeper.

While in nature, these men are given space to breathe, to be seen, and to show up fully without judgment. Through brotherhood, reflection, breathwork, and shared time outdoors, they are able to slow down, be present, and show up as they are. In the stillness of the forest, moments of joy, vulnerability, and connection unfold naturally.

This film is about remembering what has always been true: nature has always been home — a place to gather, heal, breathe, and a place of belonging. When Black men are supported, that care reaches far beyond the individual. Healing moves through families, friendships, and communities.

Boyz N The Wood: Resilience in the Redwoods

Step by step and breath by breath, among the California redwood trees, a group of Black men come together to build community, heal, and bond with each other and the nature around them

In partnership with 

Outdoor Inclusion Coalition

What if every kid had access to outdoor adventures?

Marcus & Me, directed by Dom and Nadia Gill, follows Big Marcus and Little Marcus as they build confidence and community through climbing in the heart of Pittsburgh.

As part of the Outdoor Inclusion Coalition climbing program, the film demonstrates that beyond deep wilderness,  outdoor recreation can be enjoyed in our own neighborhoods, nearby city parks, and surprising spaces throughout the city., While Big Marcus shares his passion for climbing and finding space outdoors with Little Marcus. The two create a pathway to playfulness, belonging, and new possibilities close to home. 

Together, they show how representation and access can shape the way young people see themselves and the world around them.

Marcus & Me | Our Nature Connection

As part of the Outdoor Inclusion Coalition's climbing program, 'Big' Marcus Schoffner shows 'Little' Marcus the ropes and explores the climbing potential of Pittsburgh's industrial-era infrastructure. These often overlooked adventure playgrounds in the heart of the city provide a valuable connection to nature and the outdoors for numerous communities that surround them.

In partnership with 

The Nature and Health Alliance

What 10 Minutes in Nature Can Do for Your Health...

The Nature Dose, directed by Andrew Nadkarni, follows three visionary leaders using science, storytelling, and community action to explore one powerful idea: nature is essential to human health, and we should be acting accordingly.

From nature prescriptions and virtual reality research to grassroots efforts restoring green space in Buffalo, NY, The Nature Dose explores what happens when communities, scientists, and storytellers come together to make nature access a priority for healthy living.

The Nature Dose is a reminder that being in nature is not a luxury or an escape, but an essential part of how we care for ourselves and our communities

The Nature Dose | Our Nature Connection

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COMING SOON: August 6th, 2026

The Nature Dose follows three visionary leaders weaving science, storytelling, and community action to spark a movement that ensures nature’s healing power is accessible to all.