Outings program builds skills, teamwork

Outings, an outdoor adventure program for youth, had a very exciting summer! Our Explorers Program, for sixth to ninth graders, gathered for four weeks and then took a five-day primitive camping trip. 

This was the first summer with a brand-new group of youth. We focused on getting to know each other, building a healthy well-rounded group dynamic, and forging lasting bonds through trust and adventure activities. During the weeks leading up to the trip, students canoed, hiked, biked, tree climbed and prepared for camping trip. 

For many of the youth in our program, this was their very first camping experience and first time being away from home. The group camped in the Finger Lakes National Forest and took day trips to Pine Creek Gorge, Chimney Bluffs State Park, Fair Haven Beach, and Darien Lake. They practiced primitive camping skills, cooking skills and water collection and learned to seek out each other out for help and support.  

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