Resiliency and empowerment through adventure based learning and self-discovery is the focus of Onward & Upward Alaska (https://onwardandupward.org) and this year was challenging with the pandemic. The Erin K. Johnson Memorial Fund helped support these efforts to reach out to many in need in the Mat-Su Valley during this past year when there was an even greater need and there were fewer opportunities to connect in person. Staff did a great job of developing ways to incorporate experiential education via zoom, with a few safe outings and they made a big difference. Below are some photos of activities from this past summer and a few quotes.
"Thank you for having courses like this, It has been so beneficial for my son especially during this weird Covid summer." ~Parent
“I felt safe to be myself and share about me.” –Lucy
“I felt a connection to the community talking to everyone, a lot of people are staying home and you don't usually reach out to a lot of people at one time.”- Cooper
Onward & Upward teens exploring nature and becoming trail stewards, It wasn’t easy but they wore masks, stayed in small groups, and socially distanced. They also had to use Zoom for a lot of the courses.
“I felt connected because I was learning about new plants.”-Myles
Onward & Upward tudents getting out and learning how to ski.
"Thank you for offering this course, the instructors were amazing!" ~Parent
“It was like they tell you to get out of your comfort zone. They try to not pressure you, but push you to break out of your shell.” – student
“They’ve been really encouraging like they say you can do it and stuff. I really believe that I can do it.” -student