At the core of our initiative is a simple yet powerful mission: to collect and redistribute pre-owned outdoor gear, making exploration accessible to everyone. We’ve established a user-friendly platform that serves as a conduit for the generous contributions of fellow outdoor enthusiasts, creating a seamless and sustainable cycle of gear sharing.
In addition to our gear-sharing efforts, we also support low-income schools in pursuing outdoor activities, sponsoring education and donating new gear through charitable funds collected. Currently, we are actively supporting organizations in Nepal and India. Our short-term goal includes expanding our reach to Tibet, Bhutan, and Kenya, further extending our mission to make outdoor experiences accessible to underserved communities worldwide.
We are a community-driven initiative fueled by a shared passion for outdoor adventures accessible to all.
About Us
Trekking Thrift a 501c(3) certified nonprofit organization (Tax Id: 99-4839448 ) established in the United States by Neel Kannambadi . It was created to make outdoors accessible to all. Trekking Thrift allows anyone to donate lightly used hiking gear by submitting item details through the website; once accepted, a free shipping label is provided. Both donating and requesting gear are completely free. We also welcome monetary donations which will be used towards shipping costs, to buy gear and support outdoor activities in schools and institutions we support.
We’ve positively impacted over 475 kids across 14 institutions, raising more than $13,750 and donating gear valued at over $16,800.
Our efforts are made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: Sherpa Foundation (Boulder, CO), Yak 'n' Yeti Trekking Shop (Nepal), CrosTrek Outdoor Gear (India), and Baps Outdoor Store (Thimphu, Bhutan). Their partnership plays a vital role in helping us reach and uplift the communities we serve.
Our
Story
Our Mission
At the heart of this mission is a personal connection to the transformative power of outdoor adventures. I embarked on a trek to Philmont with Scouts in Cimarron, New Mexico, in the summer of 2023. Philmont was more than just a trek—it was a profound journey. Having experienced the positive impacts of hiking and exploration, I came to understand how a lack of gear and financial barriers can prevent many young enthusiasts from accessing these outdoor experiences.
This realization inspired me to create this platform to pay forward the enriching experiences I had. Trekking Thrift was founded in 2023 to make outdoor adventures more accessible. Additionally, we support low-income schools overseas by funding their outdoor adventures.
Join us in fostering a culture of shared experiences, environmental stewardship, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to embark on their own transformative journey through the beauty of nature.
– Neel Kannambadi
Core Team
Neel Kannambadi
Founder
Neel is a senior at Acton-Boxborough High School with a lifelong passion for the outdoors and wildlife. A dedicated Scout since third grade, he completed a two-week Philmont trek in 2023, which inspired his commitment to making outdoor gear more accessible. Outside of Scouting, he enjoys debating and rowing.
Sam Kahn
Northeast Region Chapter Head
Sam is a senior at the Collegiate School planning to study economics and history. Passionate about climate access and sustainability, he has led political discourse groups and provided free tutoring. At Trekking Thrift, he works to grow outreach and support communities affected by poverty.
Benji Wojin
Pacific Coast Region Chapter Head
Benji is a junior at The Nueva School in California with interests in politics and sustainable living. He is passionate about expanding Trekking Thrift’s outreach across West Coast communities. At Trekking Thrift, he works to broaden access to outdoor education.
Roberto Buccini
Southeast Region Chapter Head
Roberto is a senior at St. Andrew’s School interested in real estate finance. He has served as a Residential Leader, volunteered at a senior center, and worked as a U.S. Senate Page. At Trekking Thrift, he hopes to expand outreach and promote gear accessibility for communities in need.
Julian Salvador
Southwest Region Chapter Head
Julian is a senior at Spring Valley High School pursuing interests in international relations and public policy. He has served as a U.S. Senate Page and led national youth policy initiatives. At Trekking Thrift, he focuses on outreach and promoting equitable access to outdoor education.
Skanda Gopikannan
South Central Region Chapter Head
Skanda is a junior at Plano West High School planning a career in law. He has volunteered with the Plano Library and Be The Light, a national debate nonprofit. At Trekking Thrift, he aims to increase access to outdoor education and recreation.
Advisors
Carolyn Reed
Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity
Carolyn has a deep understanding and passionate commitment to Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts which stems from a role on the Board of Directors for three years prior to her role as the Executive Director for the past nine years. She worked in the technology industry in business and marketing before teaching and consulting for several years.
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Dave Clayman
Founder and CEO of Twelve Points Wealth Management
Dave Clayman is the founder and CEO of Twelve Points Wealth Management, a consultancy firm based in Concord, Massachusetts. He is an Eagle Scout and a lifetime advocate of exploration. As the President of the BSA Spirit and Adventure Council, he continues to lead and inspire scouts in his community. firm.
Pemba Sherpa
Founder/President of The Sherpa Foundation
As a former professional mountain guide, he immigrated to the United States in 1991. He owns Sherpa’s Adventure Restaurant in Boulder, CO. Raised in Sengma, a small Himalayan village. Through his work and foundation, supports education and community projects in Nepal while continuing a life of endurance, adventure, and tradition.
