A Day in the Life: Take a Hike Cowichan 

When Avery joined the Cowichan program, he had been out of school for several years, missing nearly all of Grades 8 through 10. Avery had a long history of severe social withdrawal, spending most of his time isolated at home, gaming, and smoking heavily. At first, he attended only occasionally, unsure if the program would be any different from what he’d experienced before. But over time, daily rituals like Circle and a flexible, judgment-free classroom environment helped him begin to show up more regularly and eventually re-engage with learning in a way that felt right for him.  

Classroom learning at Cowichan is structured around flexible, hour-long blocks that might include full-group academic lessons or more active sessions like basketball or walks outside. The team is responsive to each youth’s needs, offering steady encouragement without pressure. For Avery, this kind of approach made all the difference. On days when he felt motivated to learn, the support was there. On days when just showing up was a win, that was enough too, and over time, these moments helped build trust and confidence.  

“Take a Hike didn’t just get me back in a classroom. It got me out of the house, helped me figure out who I want to be, made me feel like I mattered, and showed me there’s a future I can look forward to.”  – Avery

For Avery and his classmates, the Cowichan program has become more than just a classroom. It is a space where steady support and a sense of belonging help new possibilities take shape every day.  

Once a week, Avery and his peers head out on an Out Day — a hands-on learning day that blends land-based learning, life skills, and social-emotional development. The day starts with everyone preparing lunch together, a simple but meaningful way to build comfort and ownership. Then, with Doug at the wheel of the Take a Hike bus (unanimously beloved by all), they roll out for the day’s activities.  Out Days might include hiking, kayaking, visiting museums, or supporting local parks by removing invasive plants.  

Take a Hike provides Avery and each youth at Take a Hike with all the gear needed for these outings, from rain jackets to hiking boots, so everyone can join in confidently and feel fully included. The program is always free, removing barriers and making it easier for young people and families to focus on connection and growth  

Avery’s journey was shaped by these weekly outings. While academics were a challenge early on, it was often on Out Days, immersed in nature or quietly participating in group activities, that he began to feel a sense of belonging. Over time, those moments added up.  

Avery’s four years in the Cowichan program transformed his life. He rebuilt connections with his family, created healthier routines, and secured a job. And this year, Avery graduated! For someone who once spent most days isolated at home, never attending school, and uncertain about his future, these are incredible milestones worth celebrating.  

And when graduation day arrived, Avery got to take part in one of Cowichan’s most joyful traditions: ringing the school’s old brass bell. After everything he had overcome, it was an incredible moment to see him ring that bell as many times as loudly as he wanted, cheered on by his classmates and the entire school community.  

Stories like Avery’s show why all Take a Hike programs, including Cowichan, matter so deeply. Across every program, youth find the support they need to heal, grow, and step into a future full of possibility.