SUMMER IN THE SUN
Summer 2025 is all about fun in the sun and Outdoor Therapy Adventures. We have spent the first month of summer break taking students on new outdoor experiences and they have all been a blast. These trips are special throughout the summer because they allow our students to experience new aspects of nature they’ve never seen before. Waterfalls, oceans, trails, and even new states were just some of the many things students were able explore this month. Although we do have our Outdoor Therapy Program all year, there is just something different about summer break, extra long days, and time together in nature. Check out some of the specific trips we were able to take this month.
Exploring Waterfalls
Hiking through uncharted forest, taking a path unknown, and arriving at your destination to discover a beautiful waterfall is a first time experience you do not forget. We have been able to take multiple groups of students across state lines inAlabama to Little River Canyon to experience seeing a waterfall for the first time. It was inspiring to see their bravery in taking on a new challenge and pushing through to enjoy not only observing nature, but getting to partake in the beauty of the outdoors. Swimming under a waterfall after a hot and long hike is the type of therapy that does wonders for the soul and we plan to continue these adventures with our students all year long.
Outdoor Fun Projects
This summer we also asked our students to give back to the community in unique and fun ways. One fun project we did this month was helping build a fairy garden for one of our elderly partners in the community. She has always loved having fairy gardens at her home but is unable to continue building them herself. A group of our students spent an entire day helping her repair and build these whimsical gardens and they had a blast giving back while enjoying time outside and being creative.
New State Adventures
Traveling is something that gives perspective, inspires dreams, and opens possibilities. This month we were able to take a group of young men that have been a part of our Mentorship program for many years on a road trip to Texas. The ride allowed for life-changing conversations, and the trip to Texas included an abundance of new experiences. They were able to enjoy museums, new landscapes, big cities, and conversations with some of our inspiring partners from Texas. They even got to see the ocean for the first time with a quick stop by the coast on the way home. Overall, it was a very successful trip that inspired our students and allowed for memories to be made that will last a lifetime.
