Our Mission
To empower students of all backgrounds through hands-on activities that foster self-confidence and a personal connection to nature
HANDS-ON
When we say hands-on, we mean it. The tools are real, the chisels are sharp, and the wood coming out of the steamer will be too hot to hold without gloves. The firewood isn’t going to collect itself, and if we want to cook we’ll have to figure out how to get the fire started, even in the rain. Tangible goals, everyone having meaningful contributions and with thoughtful instruction make students come alive.
SELF-CONFIDENCE
Boatbuilds and outdoor trips provide students with the opportunity to showcase skills they may not typically use in a traditional classroom setting. These experiences expose them to new ways of thinking, different kinds of intelligence, and even potential hobbies for the weekends. This discovery of their own interests and abilities can ignite a renewed sense of confidence and capability. Simply facing a new challenge, such as paddling for the first time, can show students that they are capable of achieving things they didn’t think possible.
CONNECTION TO NATURE
Over 120 years ago Teddy Roosevelt wrote, “The lack of power to take joy in outdoor nature is as real a misfortune as the lack of power to take joy in books.” Imagine what he’d write today! By helping kids feel more confident in nature, we hope to make everyone, no matter where they are, appreciate and feel welcome in the natural world around them. This isn’t an image on a screen or an animal on display. This is an experience that will be remembered for a lifetime.