Eric Gilbert of Treefort meets with the Treefort Accessibilty Design Lab team to share his insights about the importance of diversity, inclusivity, and the under 21 Treefort experience.
Treefort is for Everyone.
Treefort is a welcoming music festival that takes place in beautiful downtown Boise every spring. However, according to Treefort’s leadership team, there’s a problem with accessibility.
The Treefort Trailblazers Design Lab Team began by interviewing the festival organizers and also conducted empathy work with students, Treefort attendees, and students who face challenges going to Treefort. They learned that cost, transportation, alcohol, parental consent, curfew, geography, and awareness were some of the main barriers that prevent high school students across the Treasure Valley from attending the festival. This led to the insight that Treefort should not only be for the downtown/North End “cool kids” who already know and love the festival.
The Treefort Trailblazers Design Lab Team’s guiding question was, “How might we curate a free, personalized Treefort experience for high school students across the Treasure Valley who are passionate about music?” The answer: the Treefort Trailblazer Pass. Referred by teachers and other teens, students who face these barriers would be able to apply for a free, one day pass. Based on their application responses, attendees will have food, refreshments, and transportation provided, as well as recommended concerts and shows centered around their favorite genres. Trailblazers will use One Stone as a central hub, where they are able to recharge, make a plan for the day with new friends, and enjoy a series of shows at One Stone that will be curated based on the musical interests of the Trailblazers. The outcome will diversify Treefort’s youth attendee population and volunteer engagement, while promoting inclusivity and outreach throughout the Treasure Valley.
