It has been an adventurous past couple of months for our Youth Council members!
They experienced indoor rock climbing at Mesa Rim Climbing Center, took surfing lessons at La Jolla Shores, and spent two nights at the beautiful Joshua Tree National Park.
It was part of an experience giving them access to outdoor spaces, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, and engagement with nature — made possible through The Prebys Foundation’s initiative, Healing Through Nature.
The breathtaking desert landscape of Joshua Tree combined with the shared experience of camping under the stars offered Youth Council members a much-needed break from the daily stresses of life. But Mother Nature also reminded them of her power, with fierce, chilly winds sweeping through the camp at night.
"I love the part of connecting with others, camping in general, having fun the last night with everyone around the camp fire, how safe we felt when hiking and rock climbing, and how wonderful and supportive the staff were," said one youth.
Surrounded by towering rock formations and the calming desert ambiance, they enjoyed hiking, rock climbing, rappelling (a controlled descent down a steep slope using a rope and equipment), and experienced firsthand the powerful healing effects of nature.
Special thank you to the folks at Outdoor Outreach and Mid-City CAN staff for guiding our youth and ensuring a memorable experience for them!
Click here to see photos from the Joshua Tree National Park camping trip.
Surf's Up! Youth Council hits the waves at La Jolla!
The ocean is a space for healing, empowerment, and connection — a message Risa and her amazing team at Paddle for Peace beautifully shared with Youth Council on a gorgeous Saturday morning at La Jolla Shores.
"Once I got to the ocean it changed my life for the better. And now I want to share it with all of you and hope that it will do the same," said Risa, who told youth that as a foster child she was disconnected from the ocean which is a part of her identity.
Paddle for Peace helped youth overcome their fears, building their confidence and encouraging them to step into the ocean where they could appreciate its beauty and enjoy the experience.
Thank you, Risa and your team, for sharing your knowledge and giving youth this tremendous experience!
Click here to see photos of the youth at La Jolla Shores.
Youth Council goes indoor rock climbing!
Youth Council members visited Mesa Rim Climbing Center for their first-ever indoor rock climbing experience, prior to their trip to Joshua Tree National Park.
With support from the wonderful folks at Mesa Rim, youth learned the basics of climbing and challenged themselves in new ways.
The day was filled with excitement, teamwork, and plenty of fun — and they also enjoyed a delicious meal from one of their favorite spots, Dave's Hot Chicken!
Click here to see photos from Youth Council's rock climbing experience.
Our heartfelt thanks to the Prebys Foundation for providing Youth Council with an unforgettable experience, one that will inspire and stay with them for years to come.
