Using Soccer to Spark Environmental Curiosity in Youth from Underserved Communities in Salem Oregon

For the past two years, Michael Arthur, Founder of the Congregation of Black Naturalists (CBN), has supported the development of All Nations Oregon Futbol Club —a culturally specific soccer program that empowers refugee, immigrant, and Black youth in Salem. Michael has used soccer as a powerful tool to create educational opportunities, build community, and nurture the leadership potential of young people both on and off the field.

This summer, the Congregation of Black Naturalists (CBN) in collaboration with All Nations Oregon Futbol Club, Cape Perpetua Collaborative, and View the Future brought a group of 12 middle and high school youth on an unforgettable journey—from the soccer field to the Oregon Coast. As part of our mission to nurture whole youth development through culturally rooted environmental education, we paired outdoor adventure with career exploration, conservation science, and deep connection to nature.

Our youth received a private behind-the-scenes tour of the Oregon Coast Aquarium. They stood in awe as they learned how the aquarium’s massive tanks are maintained—how ocean water is pumped in, filtered, and monitored to create safe environments for marine life. They also got to see how the staff cares for the animals, gaining insight into the daily work of marine conservation professionals. Through hands-on learning, they explored the devastating impact of plastic pollution and human activity on marine ecosystems.

For majority of the youth—this was their first time seeing an aquarium. CBN is proud to break barriers like cost, transportation, and access, ensuring that youth who are often left out of outdoor and environmental spaces can experience their power and beauty.

The group stayed overnight at OMSI Camp Gray, where they played soccer on the campgrounds, slept in bunk beds, and gathered around a fire pit to reflect, build bonds, and roast (or burn) marshmallows :-D

The next morning, they participated in one of the year’s lowest tidepool tours—a rare and remarkable opportunity. Led by a passionate Tidepool Ambassador, the youth explored underwater rock formations usually hidden by the waves, teeming with sea anemones, starfish, mussels, and blue crabs. They didn’t just learn about ecosystems—they stood inside

one.

Guided by the Cape Perpetua Collaborative, youth walk through a living tidepool ecosystem during one of the lowest tides of the year—led by a passionate Tidepool Ambassador who brought the underwater world to life.

CBN Founder, Michael Arthur, holds his son while encouraging youth to gently touch sea anemias.

At CBN, we use soccer as the hook—but our deeper goal is to nurture young leaders who are connected to the earth, their communities, and their future. By incorporating environmental education and career exposure into our athletic programs, we aim to help youth see college, conservation work, and outdoor leadership as real, reachable paths.

This trip was more than an outing—it was an experience that transformed how our youth see the ocean, science, and their place in the world. With more support, we can continue to provide these life-changing opportunities. Together, we can build a future where every young person, no matter their background, has the chance to thrive in nature and beyond.

At CBN, we are guided by the Native American saying: “We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.” We believe that true environmental stewardship begins by investing in youth—our future leaders. When young people are given the chance to build real relationships with nature and explore marine life through meaningful experiences, they grow into advocates who will stand up to protect and preserve our planet for generations to come.

We are so grateful for our collaborators—Outdoor Afro, Cape Perpetua Collaborative, and View the Future for helping create a pathway for the youth. From immersive tidepool exploration to a powerful hike along Amanda’s Trail, this trip opened doors to environmental connection, cultural awareness, and self-discovery. This is just the beginning of many more transformative experiences to come. We welcome your support with helping to create and sustain educational programs for the youth we serve.