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Trust, Perseverance, and Community

The Vernon program had been gearing up for their Spirit of Exploration Trip backcountry hiking trip, and they took an important first step together.

A week before the spring SET adventure, the class set out on an Out Day hike. What they didn’t know at the time was that their teacher had intentionally chosen a 6 km trail. This was the same distance they would be hiking on their upcoming Spring trip. But there was a twist—he didn’t tell them until after they had completed it.

The goal was simple but powerful: to show them they could do it, especially with each other’s support. 

This hike was part of their preparation, and it was done without the extra weight of their gear. The next step would be repeating that same trail with their full packs, building on both their physical readiness and growing confidence.

This experience wasn’t just about checking off a training hike. It was about building trust, demonstrating perseverance, and strengthening their sense of community. The youth supported each other every step of the way. And by the end, they stood a little taller, knowing they had already achieved something they once thought might be too hard.

It’s a beautiful example of how Out Days create more than just memories. They help lay the foundation for a safe, supportive community where youth can show up as themselves and grow together.