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gLOBAL OUTDOOR HEALTH Summit (GOH SUMMIT) 2024
(Formerly SHIFT)

Date:

November 17-20, 2024

Location:

San Antonio, Texas

Address:

Phil Hardberger Park Urban Ecology Center,

8400 NW Military Highway,
San Antonio, TX 78231

Registration is open!

GOH Summit only or bundle with ThinkTank.

Early bird discount until 9/1!

What is the Global outdoor health Summit?

The Global Outdoor Health Summit is the next evolution of the former SHIFT Summit - A national gathering of great minds who care about improving the intersection of nature and preventive health for humans and lands. Attendees include diverse researchers, policy managers, health providers, planners, governmental, outdoor recreation, business, non-profit, military, foundations and philanthropic funders, educators, retailers, conservationists, and/or nature-intervention professionals and organizations from around the world. 

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People who care about humans, health, and the environment come together to share stories, immersive experiences, evidence, programs, and ideas to help solve the natural conflicts that come when connecting more people into nature. We discuss the mental, cognitive, physical, and spiritual benefits nature can provide, while taking care of the lands at the same time. The Summit is based on sound peer-reviewed science and trends combined with experiential, health, stewardship, policy, practice, and management aspects to balance equitable access to the places, programs, flora, and fauna that we believe is necessary to exist and thrive. 

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The GOH Summit is unique in that various Experiences in Nature are built into the program, along with intense academic and practice-oriented educational session and networking - we want to "walk the talk"

PREVIEW: 2024 Program Draft

Registration

Register now for the 2024 GOH Summit (and save with registration discount bundles!)

ActivEnviro is co-locating the 2024 Global Outdoor Health Summit and the ActivEnviro Think Tank, courtesy of our Local Host Sponsors, the San Antonio Park and Recreation Department. You can register for either the GOH Summit or the Think Tank, or choose a bundled registration option that offers a discount for both events. For organizations with three or more attendees, please reach out to Amanda Walker at amandaw@activenviro.org for information on group rates.

Accomodations

Great discounts on hotels in San Antonio for GOH Summit and ThinkTank attendees

Our wonderful San Antonio Parks and Recreation local host partners have facilitated agreements with a couple of good hotels to help make your attendance at either or both events more financially pleasant. Both the Courtyard by Marriott and the Aloft Hotels have offered us a rate of just $119 per night if you use the following links to book your hotel soon (rooms may fill up!).

Aloft San Antonio Airport

838 NW Loop 410 San Antonio, Texas 78216

2.4 miles to SAT airport, 3.5 miles to GOH Summit (Phil Hardberger Park Urban Ecology Center), and 10 miles to ThinkTank (Denver Heights Community Center)

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Event discount rate: $119 per night

Last day of discount: October 15

Courtyard Marriott San Antonio

8615 Broadway Street San Antonio, Texas 78217

0.5 miles to SAT airport, 5.5 miles to GOH Summit (Phil Hardberger Park Urban Ecology Center), and 10.5 miles to ThinkTank (Denver Heights Community Center)

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Event discount rate: $119 per night

Last day of discount: November 1

GOH Experiences

One big difference about this GOH Summit convening - We Walk the Talk! We include GOH Experiences as built-in immersive outdoor activities included in your registration, providing participants with opportunities to explore the region, network with colleagues, and deeply connect with the local environment. Organized by the GOH Experiences Committee in partnership with our 2024 local host organization, the San Antonio, TX Parks and Recreation Department, these experiences are integral part of the schedule: ​

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  • ​​Sunday, November 17th, 3:00 – 4:30pm​

  • History and Tour of Phil Hardberger Park & Urban Ecology Center
    Explore the Phil Hardberger Park Urban Ecology Center, a unique oasis within the city. Learn about the park's history, the transformation of the urban landscape, and the ecological initiatives that make this park a model for sustainable urban living. Tour will include a visit to the Robert L.B. Tobin Land Bridge. Completed in 2020, the Land Bridge is the largest of its kind in North America designed to accommodate both humans and wildlife.
    Led by: COSA Parks and Recreation Staff
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  • Monday, November 18th, 9:00am – 12:00pm​

  • Edwards Aquifer Education Center and Field Research Lab
    Visit the Edwards Aquifer Education Center and Field Research Lab to delve into the fascinating world of groundwater science. The Edwards Aquifer is one of the most prolific artesian aquifers in the world. Located on the eastern edge of the Edwards Plateau in the U.S. state of Texas, it is the main source of drinking water for two million people, and is the primary water supply for agriculture and industry in the aquifer's region. Discover how this vital aquifer supports the region's water supply and ecosystems through interactive exhibits and hands-on research activities.
    Led by: Edwards Aquifer Authority staff​

  • Bird Identification Tour through Phil Hardberger Park
    Join expert guides on a bird identification tour through Phil Hardberger Park. Whether you're a novice or an experienced birder, you'll learn to spot and identify various bird species, gaining insights into their behaviors and habitats.
    Led by: COSA Parks and Recreation staff​

  • Bike Tour from Phil Hardberger Park to Walker Ranch
    Embark on a scenic bike tour from Phil Hardberger Park to Walker Ranch. This guided ride offers a blend of exercise, nature, and local history, showcasing the greenway trails that connect these two significant urban parks. Note: Part of the route will be along a highway.
    Led by: COSA Parks and Recreation staff​

  • Forest Bathing and Nature Immersion
    Experience the therapeutic practice of forest bathing and nature immersion. Guided by a certified instructor, you'll slow down, engage your senses, and connect deeply with the natural surroundings, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
    Led by: Trinity University​

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  • Wednesday, November 20th, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

  • Tour of San Pedro Creek Culture Park
    Discover the rich cultural heritage of San Pedro Creek on this guided tour, led by members of the San Antonio River Authority. Learn about the area's historical significance as one of San Antonio’s foundational bedrocks, recent restoration efforts, and how the creek serves as a cultural and ecological asset to the community.
    Led by: San Antonio River Authority staff

  • Physical Activity in Nature at Phil Hardberger Park Urban Ecology Center
    Experience the benefits of exercising in a natural setting. Enjoy archery sessions and rediscover your inner child at a nature-based playground, making physical activity fun and adventurous.
    Led by: COSA Parks and Recreation staff​

  • Tree Talk with Urban Forestry
    Join urban forestry experts for an informative session on the importance of trees in urban environments. Learn about tree care, the role of urban forests in improving air quality and biodiversity, and participate in a hands-on tree planting demonstration.
    Led by: COSA Parks and Recreation staff

  • Art in the Park: Intersection of Creativity and Nature
    Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while exploring your creative side. This interactive session combines the tranquility of the outdoors with artistic expression. Discover how nature can fuel your creativity and leave with a unique piece of art inspired by the natural surroundings.
    Led by: COSA Parks and Recreation staff

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As we look forward to the upcoming 2024 conference, stay tuned for more details about the exciting GOH Experiences.  Contact us at info@ActivEnviro.org if you'd like to be involved in the planning, sponsor, or volunteer. 

2024 GOH summit Awards

At the intersection of nature and health are professionals, organizations, and individuals committed to serving their communities. The Global Outdoor Health (GOH) Summit Awards celebrates the vital work they do to support thriving communities.

Each year nominations are taken for the Awards, highlighting and showcasing organizations and individuals who are doing great work in this realm. Winners for the 2023 SHIFT Awards were:

  • 1st Place: The Phoenix

  • 2nd Place: Alana Foundation

  • 3rd Place: Conexão Natureza - Brazil

  • Special SHIFT Emeritus Professional Award: Robert (Bob) Ratcliffe

Learn more about past winners on the SHIFT Awards page.​

THANKS TO OUR 2024 SPONSORS

We are immensely grateful for our 2024 Global Outdoor Health Summit sponsors!
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Sponsor or Exhibit at the 2024 GOH Summit!

Various sponsorship and exhibition opportunities are available:

Mountains

“I am leaving this Summit with so many examples of cross-sector collaboration for equity and access in the outdoors.”

2022 SHIFT Summit Attendee

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