Summer 2022 Pacific Northwest Programs
Northwest Youth Corps (NYC) has provided youth and young adults work opportunities in the great outdoors in a fun team-based learning environment that emphasizes personal growth and stewardship since 1984. OUT There Adventures (OTA) cultivates leadership and builds community for LGBTQ youth and young adults through adventures in nature. This summer NYC and OTA are partnering with the National Park Service to offer a program for youth and young adults who identify with the LGBTQ Community the opportunity to learn, grow, and experience success. Here is a chance for you to learn valuable work and outdoor skills, create new friendships, and make memories that will last a lifetime!
The Oregon Rafting and Service course for LGBTQ youth offers students an opportunity to connect with other members of the LGBTQ community on an 10-day expedition. The course begins in Portland, Oregon with low and high ropes courses. You’ll then head to central Oregon for six days of rafting on the wild and scenic Deschutes River, using your teamwork and outdoor skills, and learning paddling methods, river hydrology, raft captaining and rescue techniques. You don’t need to have any previous experience – our Instructors are prepared to teach people of all experience levels.
The course also includes a community service component. This course, led by LGBTQ Outward Bound Instructors, creates an open and affirming space for sharing experiences and building community while exploring the great outdoors. Students should expect a traditional Outward Bound course structure where students learn technical skills and take responsibility for daily activities, while also building self-esteem and relationships with other LGBTQ youth.