May 2024 Update

This month we are excited to host our annual Miles for Soul Fundraiser at Dacha Beer Garden at the Navy Yard, White Water Kayak Interest Meeting at Patagonia DC, and a new outdoor yoga program at Anacostia Park. We are also happy to share that the Scuba certification and Outdoor Climbing Club are still going strong! 

Looking forward to seeing everyone at these great opportunities this month! 

Next we have our monthly Bouldering Night at the Bouldering Project-DC on Eckington Pl in NE Washington on Sunday, May 5 from 4-6pm. The event has moved from first Wednesday to first Sunday of the month. Bouldering Night is a community centered program offered at no cost to the first 25 Soul Trak participants, community members thereafter pay an entry fee but receive free rentals. We’re looking forward to seeing  new faces at our popular climbing event. Volunteers are available to show first-timers how to boulder.

Are you interested in Volunteering with Soul Trak? Join us for a virtual volunteer orientation to meet the Soul Trak team, learn about Soul Trak’s mission, volunteer opportunities, expectations and the volunteer onboarding process. 

Soul Trak’s programs would not be possible without the help of our amazing team of volunteers. Learn how to lead group hikes, bike rides, or climbing trips, no experience necessary. If you are excited about the outdoors and making the outdoors more accessible and diverse, then come volunteer with us!

Learn how to Scuba dive with Soul Trak’s Scuba Diving Cohort! This certification course will prepare you with the necessary skills and knowledge for underwater adventure.  Swimming Requirement: A prerequisite for the certification is to be able to continuously swim 200 yards (4 down/back laps any swim style) and survival float (or tread water) for 10 minutes.

Health Requirements/Doctor’s Note:
A medical form must be completed which may require a doctor’s note.
Payment can either be made in full, or over a 3 part payment plan ($183.33 each)

We are partnering with Sportrock Climbing Center for a 6 course outdoor climbing  program. This course will take club members through a 6 part developmental climbing program that will build climbers confidence and technical climbing skills outdoors. Climbing workshop include – Knot tying, belay training, and anchor setting, Outdoor Climbing Clinics will take place in both Carderock Recreation Area and Great Falls National Park, just 15 minutes driving outside of DC. 

What is the Miles For Soul 5k?

Soul Trak hosts an annual celebration that brings together our partners, participants, and supporters to honor community engagement, inclusion, outdoor equity, and leadership development. This event serves as our primary fundraising initiative, aiming to provide over one thousand Black and Brown residents with affordable access to outdoor programming opportunities throughout the city. Central to this celebration is a 3.2-mile run or walk along the Anacostia riverfront trail and across the historic Frederick Douglass Bridge. While optional, this activity encourages participants to embrace the outdoors and enjoy the stunning landscape along the Anacostia River and park—a true reflection of Soul Trak’s essence and our appreciation for the natural ecosystem in the heart of the city.

Following the 5k, our celebration continues with food, music, and guest speakers who spotlight the impactful work of our organization. This event is eagerly anticipated and has garnered significant community interest, with hundreds of attendees joining us for our inaugural in-person celebration in 2023.
Date: May 19, 2024
Location: Dacha Beer Garden (Navy Yard) 79 Potomac Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003

Curious about kayaking and paddling on the Potomac River? Join Soul Trak and local white water paddlers to learn about white water kayaking and paddling on the Potomac River! 

In July, Soul Trak will be hosting another White Water Kayaking Cohort, a 4 session course that will take you from beginner to white water paddler! This class is a partnership between Soul Trak and the Calleva River School, with volunteer support from the Canoe Cruisers Association. 

Come meet some of the instructors and paddlers that will be helping out with the course, mingle with experienced paddlers, and learn about the rich white water paddling scene on the Potomac. 

Join us for a rejuvenating session of Gentle Outdoor Yoga at Anacostia Park on May 26th from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. Led by Adina, a trusted REI Inclusion partner and experienced yoga instructor, this session offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature while nourishing your mind, body, and spirit.

In this tranquil setting nestled along the banks of the Anacostia River, you’ll experience the soothing blend of gentle yoga poses, mindful breathing exercises, and meditation techniques. Suitable for all experience levels, including beginners, this session will focus on fostering relaxation, flexibility, and inner peace.

You can find all our May programs on our events page. We look forward to seeing you in the outdoors!