Emma

"At Take a Hike I’ve found a community of supportive peers and staff."

Going on Take a Hike trips have changed my life for the better. Looking back on it I’ve seen myself transform into a more grounded and less materialistic person. I’ve turned my focus inward instead of caring so much about physical pleasures in life. All I need in my life are the simple things. Food, water, shelter, and most importantly community. Here at Take a Hike I’ve found a community of supportive peers and staff. Mainstream school doesn’t provide that same feeling. Going on these challenging trips with other students who have similar struggles allows us to bond in a way you simply can’t in public school. We are taken out of the city where everyone is always bombarded by unnecessary stressors in life, and put into the wilderness where life becomes simple. The students create happiness together from learning to play again and be curious of our surroundings. Back in the city teenagers are constantly finding the next distraction, social media, video games, TV etc. Being in the wilderness allows us to fully connect with each other. Even adults now days don’t get the same chance Take A Hike students do. I am so lucky to have these opportunities to work on myself mentally and physically at such a young age.

— Emma, Grade 11 youth