Fir Ridge Camp Phoenix program

Each year, twice per year Fir Ridge students and staff participate in the Phoenix program.  At Phoenix teens evaluate who they are, assess the causes of their challenges, and redefine where they want to go in life.  A student who attended last year said this about Phoenix: “It’s where you go to find the self you always wanted to be but didn’t know was there.”  Students do this work during a 3-day retreat at YMCA Camp Collins.  They engage in experiential activities including small group discussions, energizing games, storytelling, art, and team-building activities on the challenge course.

Fir Ridge is an alternative high school in the David Douglas School District located in Portland, OR. Many of our students are academically behind and/or at-risk of dropping out of high school. Almost all have extremely difficult life circumstances. We have approximately 225 students; Grades 9-12; 100% are on Free and Reduced Lunch; 20% are enrolled in special education, 20% are Title X (homeless), and 5% are pregnant or parenting teens.  

 This year it is especially important that we fund the Phoenix program as we have lost several other vital partnerships, including our Drug and Alcohol counseling services, our partnership with Campfire Thrive (a quarterly class and mentorship), and our after school programs.

 
We are asking for $3000.00 to cover the cost of sending students and staff to the Phoenix program. The money will be used to cover the costs of programming, food, lodging, supplies and transportation.

Our students have incredible stories of grit, resilience, and perseverance. We have seen over and over again the meaningful impact the Phoenix program has on their lives. We can't do this without you. Please consider supporting our trip.