Just in time for the holidays, Soul Trak receives a massive tent donation!

Coordinated by Michael Day, a Lake Braddock Secondary School Junior

Just in time for the holidays, Lake Braddock Secondary School Junior Michael Day organized a generous donation of camping gear to help DC’s communities of color connect with the great outdoors.

On Sunday, Dec. 8, representatives from SoulTrak Outdoors, a Washington, DC-based nonprofit dedicated to fostering connections between communities of color and outdoor spaces, arrived at the home of Michael Day, a junior at Lake Braddock Secondary School. There, they loaded almost brand-new camping tents and supplies valued at close to $25,000 into their truck, with help from several of Michael’s LBSS classmates.

The donation, sourced from Lorton-based OLightStore USA, was the culmination of nearly a year of planning and coordination by 16-year old Michael, whose initiative ensured that the equipment found a meaningful home with SoulTrak.

The journey began in February when Michael’s parents learned that OLightStore USA planned to clear out a surplus of Black Deer and Nature-Hike tents to make room for a new product line. Michael encouraged his parents to meet with the store manager, John Zhao, to discuss possibly using the overstock for a donation event.

“When I saw the sheer volume of tents available, I instantly recognized their potential to make a real difference,” Michael explained. “Every summer, I attend a youth camp deep in the mountains of North Carolina, so I understand firsthand how transformative outdoor experiences can be. I wanted others, especially those who lack access, to have the same life-changing opportunities.”

Following the meeting, Michael and his family took responsibility for transporting the tents from OLight’s warehouse to their home. Over Valentine’s Day weekend, they made multiple trips to complete the move.

Initially, Michael planned to coordinate with his Lake Braddock school clubs to organize a donation event. However, the process proved more complicated than anticipated due to administrative requirements. Determined to see his vision through, Michael pivoted and began reaching out directly to local organizations.

By mid-November, Michael connected with Soul Trak, whose mission aligned perfectly with the donation’s purpose. Tyrhee Moore, founder of Soul Trak, expressed excitement about the contribution. “These tents will go a long way in helping us provide outdoor experiences for underrepresented communities,” Moore said.

The week leading up to the donation was a flurry of activity. On Friday, Dec. 6, Michael and a group of Lake Braddock students gathered at his home to verify and organize the inventory. John Zhao stopped by that evening, thanking the teens for their efforts and presenting them with small gifts in appreciation.

“Seeing young people like Michael take initiative reminds me of the power of community,” Zhao said. “OLightStore USA is proud to have been part of this effort.”

On Sunday, Dec. 8, the project came to fruition. More Lake Braddock students arrived to help load the gear into Soul Trak’s truck, driven by Founder Tyrhee Moore, Operations Manager Colby Vine and additional Soul Trak volunteers.

“Watching this all come together has been incredible,” Michael reflected. “It wasn’t just about the tents—it was about making sure they reached people who could benefit from them the most.”

Thanks to the volunteer efforts of Lake Braddock Secondary School students, Soul Trak will be able to help many community members explore the outdoors comfortably and confidently, while continuing to create meaningful opportunities for individuals and families to connect with nature.