WILD Outside is a national leadership program for youths of ages 12 to 26. We developed it to help young Canadians learn from CWF facilitators how to be part of a team, develop a conservation ethic and plan a community-based action project. Teams then deliver their nature connection projects to peers in major cities across the country. This program is run in collaboration with the YMCA.
The program has two parts:
An immersive overnight experience in nature where your group will take part in experiential teambuilding activities led by our trained facilitators, deep learning about modern conservation techniques and their place in conservation. They will also plan a community based conservation action project, such as starting a WILD Family Nature Club, taking part in a bioblitz, helping with habitat restoration or another project of their own choosing. All meals and accommodation at a local wilderness facility are provided.
The second part is where your group delivers their action project at home. In this exciting part of the program, they re-group with their team members, deliver the program and share their learning with your community. We encourage groups to share photos and videos of this exciting event with us and on social media.
During the 2016 – 2017 season, programs will be held in facilities near these Canadian cities:
- Calgary – TBA
- Edmonton - November 5 – 6
- Toronto - October 16 – 17
- Vancouver - TBA
- Montreal – October 6 – 7
During the 2015 – 2016 season, programs were held in facilities near these Canadian cities:
- Calgary – Camp Chief Hector YMCA: April 30 – May 1
- Edmonton - Camp Chief Hector YMCA: April 30 – May 1
- Toronto - YMCA Camp Kitchikewana: June 4 – 5
- Vancouver - YMCA Camp Elphinstone: April 30 – May 1
- Montreal – YMCA Camp Kanawana: May 14 – 15
- Ottawa – Christie Lake Kids Camp: December 5 – 6
