Rocky Mountains
Connecting with Courage

We invite youth ages 14-16 from all walks of life who struggle with self-esteem, self-confidence, or isolation issues to sign up for this course. This experience is for you if you want to meet in a supportive environment with like-minded youth who have had similar experiences and struggles and want to use the power of nature to heal and strengthen.

This course is rated level 2 in social-emotional challenge and level 2 in physical challenge. Click here to learn more about the levels of difficulty.

Important Course Notes:

-Our Connecting With Courage is not intended to be a therapeutic intervention for severe cases of depression, anxiety, etc. Although our instructors are trained in mental health wilderness first aid and have experience with the issues facing youth today, they aren’t licensed mental health professionals.

-This is just one of multiple financial assistance and scholarships to be applied against any of our programs. We encourage you to explore these options and apply accordingly to any one that relates to you!

AREA & ACTIVITIES

This journey will take you through Treaty 7 land, the traditional territories of Niitsitapi (the Siksika, Piikani, Kainai), the Îyârhe Nakoda, and Tsuut’ina Nations, as well as the traditional unceded territory of the Ktunaxa Nation and Métis Region 3.

You will begin with an introduction to backcountry living and getting to know your team members. Experienced instructors will teach you everything you need to know for your adventure, including how to pack an expedition backpack, stove use, shelter building, personal hygiene, minimal impact camping, and how to travel over various terrain both on and off-trail. By the end of the course, you will make decisions with minimal input from instructors.

Learning Outcomes

Our experienced instructors will lead you through unique challenges that require your group to work together to solve problems, reflect on your journey, and discuss how to apply your skills and what you’ve learned when you return home. The course is designed to have a lasting and measurable impact in three key areas:

• Develop a lifelong relationship with nature
• Improved resilience – Improve your mental and physical health while learning how to overcome challenges to thrive.
• Leadership and teamwork skills – Learn the skills you need to succeed in school, work and life by becoming more confident, collaborative and a respectful team member.

Solo

Every Outward Bound Canada course includes a solo experience of up to 48 hours in a secluded spot where you will set up your shelter and have time for self-reflection. Instructors are nearby to assist you as needed. The solo isn’t a wilderness survival challenge, but rather a supportive environment where participants take time for themselves away from the distractions of everyday life. While it may seem like a daunting challenge at first, it’s often the most impactful part of the course as you get an opportunity few others will ever experience – to be alone in nature.

Financial Assistance

This course is fully funded through the Maddie Project.