October 1, 2026 marks the one-year anniversary of Dr. Jane Goodall ‘s passing. While we still feel her absence keenly, we also see daily proof of her impact on the world: in the voices of those who speak up for animals, in the communities coming together to live more sustainably with nature and in the actions of young people shaping a better present and future. At the Jane Goodall Institute, we also feel more inspired than ever to carry forward her conservation legacy through our work. 

We’ve chosen to commemorate this day and celebrate the life of our beloved founder with a new initiative called “Hike for Hope,” which transforms one of Jane’s favorite activities — observing nature outdoors — into a global movement. We want you to join us. 

How to Participate 

You can take part in this Hike for Hope October 1-4 in a few different ways: 

Join an Existing Hike for Hope Event… 

Find an event near you in our 🔗 JGI USA Hike for Hope calendar. Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots Basecamps will be hosting events in select U.S. cities, and grassroots Hike for Hope events will take place around the world. Check event details and register to join your community in celebrating Jane. 

… OR Create Your Own Hike for Hope Event… 

Create your own event and invite your friends, family, and colleagues to join you. You can choose the day that works best for you on or between October 1-4, or participate on multiple days. Use our 🔗 event guide to add it to our 🔗 JGI USA Hike for Hope calendar and be sure to follow our 🔗 code of conduct to ensure it is a safe and welcoming event for all participants. 

… OR Get Outside in Your Own Way. 

Maybe a gathering isn’t your style. Jane often preferred solo trips out in nature, where she could fully immerse herself. With any bit of free time in your day, get outside in a way that is meaningful, comfortable, and accessible for you. 

We love seeing the community that Jane built coming together, so whatever way you choose to join this Hike for Hope, please share photos of your experience using #HikeForHope and tagging @JaneGoodallInst. 

A Movement Open to All 

In keeping with Jane’s philosophy that any individual can make a difference, any individual can participate in Hike for Hope in a way that is meaningful for them. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, a commuter in a bustling city, or a suburbanite simply looking for a moment of connection with nature, you can participate in the way that works best for you. There is no required distance, pace, or activity — what matters is taking part and sharing in a collective commitment to hope and positive action. 

Help Us Turn Hope into Action 

When you participate in the Jane Goodall Hike for Hope, you’re helping turn inspiration into action by raising awareness for Jane Goodall Institute’s work to protect wildlife and habitats, empower local communities, inspire young people through Roots & Shoots, and advance conservation solutions that create a better future for all. 

As people across the U.S. and around the world come together on the same four days, we’ll demonstrate a belief that Jane shared throughout her life: every individual can make a difference, and together we can create lasting change. 

Photo/video credits, in order of appearance: Roy Borghouts, JGI Canada, JGI/Eric Guzzetta, JGI Uganda/Kennedy Kitandwe