Embark

2019: A Year in Review

2019 was our very first year in operation, and for most of our participants, their very first opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. The program year was full of challenges to overcome as well as new friendships. Our first team was made up of 10 young women in the Salt Lake City refugee community, and we’re looking forward to the 2020 expansion, to include 20 young women! Here is a recap of what we did:

weekly meetings, March - October

Our team met most weekends to climb indoors or hike outdoors. Hikes usually included special workshops, such as how to purify water, use a camp stove, or prepare for the outdoors.

June Camp out - American Fork Canyon

In June, we had our first team camp out in Utah’s American Fork Canyon! Participants conquered the cold alpine waters, learning to stand-up paddle and Kayak on Silver Fork Reservoir. We set up camp, filtered water from the river, and hiked in the beautiful mountains!

August Camp out - uinta mountains

By August, our first year participants felt ready to put the climbing skills they’d gained in the gym to use in the outdoors. Participants supported each other as they faced the fear of climbing outside for the very first time, high above the forest in the Uinta mountains. Around the fireplaces, bonds were formed as participants shared personal experiences from their unique, yet similar life experiences as international refugees.

october Camp out - zion national park

In October, the Embark team headed south for our very special season finale - rock climbing, camping, and hiking in Zion National Park! This trip was made extra special, as we were joined by Olympic climbing hopeful, Kyra Condie. Kyra shared climbing tips with participants, and they also learned about our National Parks and Leave No Trace, The young ladies weathered the chilly nights and again overcame their fears and made it to the top of the sandstone wall!

And that’s a wrap for Embark 2019! We have new trips on the books for next year and are excited to double in size. Stay tuned for updates, or join in the fun by becoming an Embark Volunteer! Contact us for details.