Photographed by Kwabena Owusu Sarfo
SERC NEWT’s mission is to hold space for UC Berkeley’s marginalized communities to safely, mindfully, and joyfully access the abundant benefits that nature and outdoor activities provide by breaking the barriers that have historically made outdoor enjoyment inaccessible for many. SERC NEWT fosters collaboration with the many wonderful outdoor, health, and cultural groups affiliated with UC Berkeley and beyond to make this happen.
SERC NEWT recognizes that we, as humans, are a part of nature and are nature – we always have been – and that many of us have been separated from nature as a space, place, practice, mindset, and as a part of us (physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually)
SERC NEWT recognizes the history of violent colonialism, imperialism, and legacies of racism, classism, and exclusion that have segregated our outdoor spaces. We uplift Indigenous Sovereignty and history on the trips we go and places we visit.
SERC NEWT recognizes that the outdoors might be a source/place of both intergenerational and acute trauma for individuals. We affirm the right for outdoor natural spaces to be a place of healing and rejuvenation for everyone.
SERC NEWT aims to help UC Berkeley students, staff, and faculty engage with and improve their relationships to outdoor recreation and nature healing. We acknowledge that the outdoors and outdoor activities can be unfamiliar or uncomfortable, but encourage folks to not shy away from this discomfort, as we believe that when it is paired with positive community support, it can activate the “stretch” zone for individuals. We encourage people to engage at their own pace, and that every individual has autonomy to navigate their own nature experiences. We believe that everyone, no matter how experienced, has the potential to grow and evolve as a person through nature recreation, education, and healing.
Summer Camp '23
Simplify Science Scholars
Peaks of the Bay - Mt. Tamalpais
BIPOC Kayaking
Accessible Swim Series
SERC NEWT events are grounded in:
Accessibility: Breaking down financial, social, and skill barriers to enjoying outdoor activities and exploration.
Curiosity: Fostering a deep desire to explore, learn, and discover as we seek to understand the world around us, ourselves, and the ever-evolving experiences it offers.
Playfulness: Embracing a spirit of fun, spontaneity, and creativity in our outdoor pursuits, encouraging a childlike sense of wonder and adventure.
Honoring One’s Natural Pace: Respecting the unique rhythms and capabilities of each individual, allowing space for self-discovery and self-care.
Connection: Building meaningful relationships, not only with the places we explore, but also with other living and non-living beings and with our inner selves, recognizing the interconnectedness of all life.
Joy: Finding happiness and fulfillment in shared experiences when gathering in community outdoors.