- J
Here's the story
On June 19, I’ll launch my canoe at Lake Itasca, the headwaters of the Mississippi River, and paddle 1,000 miles to help more kids experience the life-changing power of the outdoors. I'd love your support!
That photo shows me many years ago, when I first began guiding and instructing in the Boundary Waters for Outward Bound. I still believe deeply in the healing power of nature, and now more than ever, it’s essential that we help Twin Cities youth not only feel safe, but also reconnect with the outdoors and rediscover the world around them.
Every dollar raised will directly support outdoor experiences for kids. Your donation will help:
- Fully fund environmental education field trips for all Prairie Seeds Academy students.
- Fund the five-day wilderness experiences in partnership with Outward Bound INSIGHT program, a series of sequenced single day adventures that focus on adventure and building community over the school year.
- Offer scholarships for students to attend three-week Outward Bound wilderness canoe expeditions.
Right now, many young people are growing up increasingly disconnected from the outdoor world. For many of these kids, these trips may be their first time sleeping under the stars, paddling a canoe, or discovering what they’re capable of in the natural world.
My Background
Like I said above, I worked 12 seasons as an instructor with Outward Bound and I’ve paddled thousands of miles through the lakes and wilderness of the Boundary Waters on self-supported expeditions with teens and adults. Again and again, I’ve witnessed the same truth: time in nature creates a powerful space for challenge, growth, curiosity, discovery, and healing.
As a veteran elementary teacher, I’ve spent a lot of time asking myself what I can do to help. My answer combines two things I believe deeply in: education and the outdoors.
This summer journey represents both a personal challenge and a mission. I’ve always been drawn to big adventures that connect people and stories. In 1997 I rode my bicycle 4,200 miles solo across the United States. In 2006 I spent six months traveling the country interviewing hundreds of people for a book. Now it’s time for a new journey—following the most iconic river in our nation’s history.
Along the way I’ll share updates from the river, post reflections on the journey, and collect simple observations about water and air quality as I travel through the heart of the country. But the real purpose of this expedition is the students.
Nature has the power to build confidence, curiosity, and resilience in ways classrooms alone cannot. By supporting this journey, you’re helping open the door for students to step outside, challenge themselves, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Give big and get kids outdoors!
Thank you for being part of the adventure!
Ty
Organizer
