I am 19 days away from departure. Can you believe it?! There are so so so many little bits & pieces that I need to tie together, and that includes the announcement of some more non-profits. I am so grateful that I found out about this organization from Vancouver, BC and I can't wait to visit in October. I have a feeling that I am going to learn a lot...
The Foundation was established in 2000 to support the Take a Hike program. In partnership with the Vancouver School Board, the Foundation provides the resources and funding for programs operations, therapists and outdoor activities. The Foundation has raised over $1 million in support of Vancouver's at-risk youth.
What is the Take a Hike program?
It's an alternative education program that engages at-risk youth through a unique combination of adventure-based learning, academics, counseling, and community involvement.
Take a Hike guides and empowers these youth to blaze a trail, a positive path with positive outcomes. With Take a Hike's guidance, every youth will have an opportunity to blaze their own trail--one that is right for them, that empowers them, that gives them survival skills for life.
Who participates in the program?
Students in the Take a Hike program often struggle with issues that have inhibited their success in the mainstream school system such as drug and alcohol addiction, physical and mental abuse, criminal activity, low self-esteem, depression, and/or trauma. Most students are referred to the program by school counselors or social workers for an opportunity to make lasting change in their lives.
How can we help?
a) Volunteer - be a positive role model in the classroom & outdoors
b) Donate - spare some "change" to help Take a Hike make change
c) Spread the word - join their online community
Incredible, right?! I haven't even volunteered with them yet and I already feel inspired. Take a Hike has some similarities to a program that I took in Grade 11 called the Bronte Creek Project. It had such a positive affect on my life - an unforgettable experience. I am so glad that similar programs exist in other locations across Canada and I can only imagine how amazing the Take a Hike program and foundation are. I simply cannot wait to learn more about their program when I role into the Vancouver area in October.
Take some time to read more about them. They are a special group to follow!
Happy trails & travels!
Warmly,
Becky xo