Pathfinders
An Adventure For Those Who’ve Experienced Foster Care
(between the ages of 16-22)
August is a great month for adventuring, but you don’t want to just have fun. Compass empowers you to explore your passion and purpose. And this August, we’re inviting any young adult who has experienced foster care to join us for an adventure to the Adirondacks of Upstate New York.
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the Adirondacks. The Adirondacks is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and beginners alike, with miles of hiking trails, pristine lakes, and breathtaking vistas.
Along with Compass staff, our guide from Wilderness Journeys will lead you through this surreal landscape, sharing their knowledge and passion for the area along the way. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner, this will be a fantastic experience.
During the day, you'll hike, adventure, and explore the various sights across the park. You'll gather around a campfire with newfound friends. Because this trip is only open to others who’ve experienced foster care, there will be instantly shared understanding and connection. Each day will also include a time of personal reflection and debriefing with the community.
From climbing the iconic seaside landscapes to paddling in mountain lakes, we've designed this trip to be a landscape in which you can explore your purpose and establish timeless friendships.
This trip is for any young adult (up to age 22) who has experienced foster care. It’s run in partnership with the Rise Above Foundation and Wilderness Ways Foundation. Thanks to their generosity, the only cost for this trip is a $50 confirmation fee**.
**We know these are difficult financial times for many. In the event that the confirmation fee presents a barrier to participation, please share this with Compass staff during your interview.
APPLY
Please complete the form below. Once complete, a member of our staff will contact you to set up a brief Zoom interview.
Scroll down for a full schedule and FAQ.
FAQ
Who is this for?
This program is open to any Massachusetts young adult who has experienced foster care between the ages of 16-22.
What is the cost?
There is a one-time $50 confirmation fee. Other than this fee, the program is entirely free to all participants. We know these are difficult financial times for many. In the event that the confirmation fee presents a barrier to participation, please share this with Compass staff during your interview.
Where does the program begin and end?
Each participant will need to meet in Wenham for transportation to and from the Adirondacks (the exact location of this meeting will be shared upon acceptance.)
Do I have to have experience hiking, canoeing, and camping?
This adventure is designed to be for anyone no matter their experience in the outdoors.
Do I have to have my own gear?
Compass will provide you with a full packing list. In terms of gear, the only items you’ll need are a sleeping bag, good shoes for walking and hiking, and a flashlight.
What about clothing? What kind of clothes do I need to go camping?
To camp and hike you’ll want to have clothes that aren’t made of 100% cotton. Many athletic shorts or jerseys work great. If you don’t own any of your own, we like to buy these at a local thrift store.
What about hiking boots?
Hiking boots or shoes are recommended but not required. If you do not have hiking shoes then athletic shoes (i.e. running or tennis shoes) that tie up firmly and have quality soles are the best option.
What will I learn?
In addition to new experiences like camping and learning about the natural world, you’ll dive into questions around purpose and future vocation. Compass has designed journal content for the trip that will guide you into a deeper understanding of yourself and your future aspirations.
How large is the cohort?
The cohort will consist of up to nine participants.
More questions?
Email us at info@compasspath.org. Or complete the application and ask them during your follow-up Zoom interview!
Schedule:
This trip runs from August 22-26 and begins in Wenham. From there, we provide transportation to and from our base in the Adirondacks as well as parking for any personal vehicles during the trip.
Please note, the exact details and activities listed on this schedule are subject to change. The dates and locations will not.
Thursday, August 22
Meet mid-morning in Wenham
Team games and icebreakers, picnic lunch
Drive to Saranac Lake, New York (5 hours approximately)
Settle into campground, orientation, dinner, first group event and reflection
Friday, August 23
Wake up, camp chores, morning reflection
Low ropes team building activity
Lunch
High ropes challenge course
Group dinner and reflection
Saturday, August 24
Wake up, camp chores, morning reflection
Hiking Excursion
Group dinner and reflection
Sunday, August 25
Wake up, camp chores, morning reflection
Canoe Excursion
Group dinner and reflection
Monday, August 26
Pack up/check out of campsite
Drive home
Return to parking lot by 5pm