One reason I work for Outward Bound (as opposed to wilderness therapy organizations that can afford to pay better) is that I routinely work with a variety of racial and socio-economic backgrounds. Black, Hispanic, White, kids that sleep in three thousand dollar waterbeds, kids that share a room with 4 siblings...

For anyone to reach a dramatic shift in self image, core values, what they think is important - they have to have an experience that helps them reach a bigger and better image of *themselves*. Taking care of the environment has to be part of a bigger vision that includes feeling better about their own lives and future.

We take them on wilderness trips that last 20 days or more. We teach LNT and stewardship, but we also teach self-reliance, craftsmanship, physical fitness, service and compassion. We help them plan brighter futures for themselves.

I like to think it makes a difference, one small group at a time.
www.outwardbounddiscovery.org/