F.O.R.E.S.T. Program
Fostering Outdoor Recreation, Education, Sustainability, and Teamwork
About The Program
Fostering outdoor recreation, education, sustainability, and teamwork, the FOREST Program aims to get more people outside more often. As our mission states, we aim to create an enriching and immersive outdoor experience for everyone, and FOREST is doing just that.
FOREST sessions generally take place over two days and two nights. The program provides everything participants need to have a memorable and meaningful experience in the outdoors, including: meals and snacks throughout the duration of each session; chaperones and a field naturalist to facilitate outdoor educational and team-building activities; proper clothing/gear depending on outdoor activities planned; and free hut access for two nights. Snowshoeing, hiking, and mountain biking are just some of the activities we offer participants – completely free of charge.
Partners Make it Possible
The FOREST program’s first session took place in February 2020, just before the pandemic shut down everything. Since reopening in 2022, we’ve hosted more than a half dozen retreats to students ages 11-18. We have partnered with after school centers, school districts, and other nonprofits to provide retreats filled with learning primitive backcountry survival skills such as fire starting, tree and plant identification, shelter building, and a brief intro to basic carving practices. With help from Outdoor Gear Exchange, Gordini Gloves, and the Catamount Trail Association, we’ve been able to provide students with all the gear they need for a good time (and to stay safe!). It is through these partnerships that we are able to offer the most comprehensive and impactful experience for kids who might not otherwise have the opportunity to explore Vermont’s backcountry.
Looking Forward
We are thrilled to connect with new nonprofit partners throughout the state to evolve the program, offering retreats and varied experiences to other communities who otherwise might not feel safe or welcome in the outdoors. This program will continue to grow expontnially as new huts are built throughout the state.
If you’d like to see this program serve as many individuals as possible, please consider donating to the FOREST program by clicking the button below.
You Can Make A Difference
In order to keep FOREST completely free to participants and their families, VHA covers 100% of associated costs. Each two-day, two-night retreat costs around $2,000. You can sponsor a FOREST weekend as an individual or an organization. Click the button below to do so, or email info@vermonthuts.org to learn more.
