Discover Courage. Build Character. Lead with Hope.

Many young people growing up in marginalized communities face challenges that go far beyond the classroom. Poverty, limited opportunities, low self-esteem, family pressures, discrimination, insecurity and lack of positive role models can affect how young people see themselves and their future.

Yet these young people have enormous potential. They are intelligent, resilient, eager to learn and capable of becoming positive leaders in their families and communities.

Pathfinders is a youth development program of Chopan Trust designed to help young boys and girls discover their strengths, develop confidence and resilience, and grow into responsible young leaders.

Through Adventure Therapy and experiential learning, participants will take part in eight carefully planned sessions throughout the year. Activities may include hiking, cycling, climbing, high ropes and zip lines, orienteering, canoeing, team-building challenges, environmental stewardship and basic first aid.

The adventure is the classroom.

Young people will be given opportunities to face challenges, work together, make decisions, overcome fears and reflect on what they have learned. Each session will combine physical activity with guided reflection, journaling, teamwork, encouragement and age-appropriate faith-based reflection.

The goal is not simply to take young people outdoors. It is to help them discover that they are capable of doing difficult things.