Two major problems society faces are the widening gaps between humans and nature, and between scientists and non-scientists. In response to these negative trends, programs to enhance ecological literacy have increased. However, these efforts are almost entirely aimed at either: (1) segments of the population who are already aware of the importance of nature (the “ecologically aware”) or (2) audiences who are exposed to such programs via formal education. Often, such outreach is carried out by members of the media who may lack the scientific training and passion needed to inspire listeners or readers. Academics have this knowledge of content, and very often, the passion to inspire others. However, outreach – especially to non-mainstream audiences – is not actively encouraged within academia. A major challenge for ecologists in this millennium is to overcome existing obstacles within academia to carry out effective outreach to audiences who may appear to be distant from ecological values, but who may be attracted to learning more because of a perceived link between their interests, hobbies, or livelihoods and that of the ecologist. We gather some scientists and science practitioners who describe projects and programs that have connected their work or study organism to a segment of the non-traditional public. We cover a diverse range of projects, from ecological outreach to prisoners to citizen-science projects in inner-city areas. Speakers will discuss the methods to evaluate the results of these efforts in terms of collaborative scientific products, such as research publications, curriculum modules, or nuggets to raise public awareness. The central questions we raise include: how can ecologists effectively harness the “way of knowing” and communication abilities that non-scientists have to enhance research and education efforts? What are the obstacles that academics face when they do outreach to non-scientists? What are the rewards that help them overcome these obstacles? The final portion of the session will be organized as a Panel Discussion, during which all presenters will: (1) offer a brief recap of their conclusions; (2) discuss 2-3 prepared questions to elicit synthetic thinking; and (3) respond to questions from the audience.