What happens when underserved youth are exposed to “peak” wilderness experiences? Transformation. For eleven years, the ARC program has proven that individuals experience deep personal growth by facing the fears and doubts brought on by challenging wilderness endeavors. They come away with an “I can do it!” attitude—a powerful way of changing the way they […]
Only a New Beginning…
On July 26, this summer’s 40 day course ARC Graduates said hello to their families, and good bye to Yosemite. (At least for now.) At the graduation ceremony, the students presented their poems once more, translated meaningful letters into their families’ preferred languages, ate delicious food, and were given certificates, ARC sweaters, books, and heartfelt […]
2014 Summer Immersion Courses Reached their Summits
ARC youth explored the wilderness this summer – in Tahoe’s backcountry and Yosemite National Park – sharing moments of joy, exhaustion, and accomplishment. In Tahoe they hiked Desolation Wilderness, summited Mt. Tallac, rafted on the Truckee River, found their courage on the ropes course and spent an overnight solo. In Yosemite they backpacked along Yosemite Creek, […]
Away from Sagehen
Christine Kuang Away from Sagehen and the wilderness, I found out life in the city is more complicated in a big city. During the 23 days course at ARC, we overcame so many challenges and experienced a lot of fun: backpacking, rock climbing, rafting, ropes course, etc… I really cherish all those experiences this summer. […]
Final Expedition
This is us, working as a team getting ready for our last expedition. I am feeling excited because we are leaving tomorrow, but worried because we will be leading the trip ourselves! -Alondra
Charcoal and Pastel Art
We want to thank Chris Raines for coming to teach us how to use pastel charcoals to create amazing drawings. It was fun because we were able to use our own imagination to add more detail to the pictures. Creating this art also let us experience a sense of enjoyment with the outcome.