Celebrating a Transformational Partnership: The Spirit of Exploration Trips
Pacific Spirit Foundation’s $895,000 gift for Spirit of Exploration Trips over the next three years is a testament to a transformational partnership rooted in their belief in youth and the power of the outdoors.
Last week, we welcomed members of the Pacific Spirit Foundation to our West Vancouver program to celebrate our meaningful partnership through the Spirit of Exploration Trips. This initiative will support Take a Hike’s spring trips for the next three years, offering youth the opportunity to reconnect with the land and themselves through land-based experiences.
This gift was made possible through the generosity of the Pacific Spirit Foundation, a family foundation established by Guff, Beverley, and other members of the Muench family. Their connection to Take a Hike began in 2005. Beverley Muench, one of the Foundation Directors, volunteered in our Vancouver program and saw firsthand the impact of land-based learning. For the Muench family, nature is a space for reflection, growth, and belonging.
During the program visit, the Pacific Spirit Foundation presented a special cheque for $895,000 in support of Spirit of Exploration Trips. The presentation included Guff, Beverley, and Amber Muench. They were joined by Gordon Matchett, CEO; Rachael Lipetz, Senior Manager of Philanthropy; Alaine Anicete, Interim Program Director; and other members of the Take a Hike team.
After the presentation, guests toured the space. They visited the kitchen where youth gather to cook meals and create moments of connection. Guests also had a chance to see some of the gear used for outdoor adventures. Stories were shared about how these experiences support mental health and help youth feel grounded and supported by their community. The visit concluded with Circle, a daily ritual in the Take a Hike program where everyone comes together in conversation and reflection.
We also had the opportunity to distribute custom toques to some students. The toque features the Spirit of Exploration Trips logo, created by Justice, a youth artist from our Merritt program.
Spirit of Exploration Trips offer space for youth to develop trust, strengthen their confidence, and build relationships that support their mental well-being.
We are endlessly grateful for the Pacific Spirit Foundation’s generosity. Their support will provide vulnerable youth with the chance to learn from the land and feel a renewed sense of possibility to achieve their potential in life. It’s a gift that will shape lives for years to come.