Northwest Expedition

It is only in adventure that some people succeed in knowing themselves – in finding themselves.
-Andre Gide

Nine campers and three staff will backpack, whitewater raft, sail, stand up paddleboard, then paddle sea kayaks as a team to grow, explore, adventure, and challenge themselves during this epic trip in Northwestern Washington. The program, an Aspergers camp for teens on the autism spectrum and/or with ADHD,  combines our 7-day backpacking with our sea kayaking program, with an added sailing trip in-between. The trip starts out with a week-long backpacking adventure, culminating with an exciting whitewater rafting run down a scenic class III river.  The team will then spend 3-4 days sailing aboard Gato Verde, a 42-foot sailing catamaran, learning navigation and sailing skills, as well as experiencing stand up paddleboarding.  The second half of the trip will take the group to the majestic San Juan Archipelago, where they will practice communication skills while paddling double sea kayaks in the world-class waters of the Pacific Northwest, with opportunities to see abundant wildlife, such as harbor seals, bald eagles, Dall’s porpoise, and of course, orcas, which feed in these waters during the summer months.

Our Goals, beyond having ridiculous amounts of fun with newly made friends, are to help develop social and self confidence while providing an exciting, challenging and unforgettable adventure experience.

Our Staff support  teens through compassionate strength-based perspectives, believing every adolescent has many gifts and unique qualities to offer. Staff honor campers for every positive effort they make, and gently encourage campers to work toward challenging themselves.

Our Philosophy supports the making and maintaining of healthy relationships,  being compassionate toward others, developing the ability to treat each struggle in life as an opportunity, and doing the hard work of growing and developing both as an individual and as a member of a community.
For more information, see ourProgram Packet for NW Expedition

Details

Dates:	Session 1: July 13 – 28
Days:	16
Age:	13-17
Start/End Location:	Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
Program Location:	North Cascades & San Juan Islands
Cost:	$3150