Meaningful Results

Building a boat, chopping wood and guiding a canoe for the first time can be daunting. An atmosphere where it is expected to ask for help enables true collaboration. Before too long, the kids are helping each other and the sense of accomplishment and pride is exhilarating.

  • The Urban Wilderness Program has provided my students with lifelong team-building strategies, teaching them resilience, perseverance and the ability to collaborate.

    BARBARA CULBERTSON | KILGOUR SCHOOL TEACHER

  • You all made it fun and inspired many of the kids to seek out some of these same adventures on their own.

    DONALD SCHUTTE | WINTON WOODS TEACHER

  • Creating something is the best way to bring people together­­—you connect with new people and new minds.

    EMMIE B | HIGHLANDS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT

  • The field trip successfully demystified nature, which is a huge accomplishment.

    KYLE REISER | FOUND VILLAGE

Skills

Most kids haven’t handled a block plane or spoke shave, but with a little practice they get the hang of it. Many have never been in a boat, let alone guide it themselves. Kids learn carpentry, fire building, knot tying, paddling and navigation skills. They also learn to plan, stay organized, and the value of safety protocols.

Growth

More important than the skills kids acquire, our programs are a natural laboratory to learn to solve problems, ask others for help, and overcome frustration. We hope kids will remember how to tie a bowline, but the more important lesson is that if you fail, take a few deep breaths and a moment to relax before you try again.

LEADERSHIP

Gone are the days where a leader is appointed and everyone follows without question. Becoming a leader starts with self-awareness, curiosity and communication. With these foundations, collaboration and teamwork come naturally. When it is their time, kids take the chance to lead the way. Teachers are often surprised to see who steps up to help others succeed.