On the Rise

On The Rise course is designed for Female, Transgender and Gender Nonconforming youth entering 10th, 11th and 12th grades. On The Rise is focused on developing peer leadership skills in an outdoor setting. Students who complete this course have the opportunity to come back as an Assistant Instructor. There are up to 8 students on a course, led by 2 adult Instructors and 1 Assistant Instructor. This course is a 14-day backpacking, climbing and rappelling expedition in the Courtright Reservoir area of the Sierra National Forest and John Muir Wilderness northwest of Kings Canyon National Park.

While living together in a self designed community that reflects the values chosen by the group, students explore concepts such as trust, social justice, identity, and leadership in depth. Backpacking provides the format and structure through which young people can develop the physical, emotional, and social tools that help them be successful on this course and also with their families, schools and other groups. Students also learn and practice the facilitation skills needed as an AI.

Youth will sleep in 1 person tents each night, and take turns cooking nutritious meals for each other. All this while learning the importance of Leave No Trace Ethics, and the connection between the natural world and people. Students will take on different leadership roles each day and guide the daily activities for their peers, with instructor support.