base camp
At its core, Base Camp is intended to re-engage teens who've dropped out, checked out, or are otherwise struggling to see the point of even trying anymore. Maybe you're missing major milestones and losing momentum, and no matter how hard you kick you are barely keeping your head above water. We welcome teens who are angry, anxious or just plain stuck. I bet you've been sold promises about the world that didn't pan out.
You're the people who are going to light the world on fire and we're the ones bringing the gasoline.
Underneath your suffering is something that is so valuable to you, that when it broke you vowed to never let it happen again. You've devised impressive ways to avoid the pain, an impossible task that you persevere at despite the odds. Unfortunately, your self-preservation comes at a high cost. We'd like to help shoulder that burden and show you a different way. We can't change your life for you, but we believe you can.
Adventure practitioners at Journey Bound provide the space and the tools for you to tap into your suffering instead of avoiding it and stoke the resilient ember that exists in every one of us. That soft spot is nurtured through compassion, community-building, plus a fair share of good humor and bad jokes.
Together, we repair what was broken by engaging in real-world projects that are personally meaningful to you. This compassionate mark not only changes the world, but the collective of learners brave enough to look life straight in the face and make a choice for a better future.
FULL SEND
In climbing, we use the term "full send" to describe a move that requires 100% commitment with high stakes for failure.
Consider this year your "full send" year. If you're jumping into the Base Camp program, you're agreeing to bring all you got, including your fears, frustrations, doubts and dissenting opinions. You're also agreeing to really go for it.
You're not in it alone though. We're backing you up and rallying for the cause. We'll even hold your parents, teachers and other key players to it as well.
After all, you may be the one making the big move but the adults in your life are responsible for carrying the crash pads.
our commitment
the details
Base Camp runs the duration of the school year, with orientation occurring in the fall. It's primarily geared towards upperclassmen who are at risk of graduation delay or other major difficulty.
The first semester emphasizes stability and trust.
Services typically include family therapy, foundational groups that establish safety and norms, and therapeutic adventures intended to promote engagement.
As the program progresses, focus shifts towards freedom and self-efficacy.
More consequential adventures, such as outdoor rock climbing, are integrated throughout the second semester and students take a more active lead through member-directed groups.
The program culminates in a project-based rite of passage.
During this, members design and carry out a meaningful experience that directly ties to their personal growth. Moving beyond the program, alumni are welcomed back for workshops and mentorship opportunities.
