Project Courage

Project Courage is designed for Female, Transgender and Gender Nonconforming youth entering 7th and 8th grade. There are up to 11 students on a course, led by 2 adult Instructors and 1 high school Assistant Instructor who is also a GirlVentures alumnae. Students paddle in sea kayaks on the magical Tomales Bay. During the expedition they will be moving camp every couple of nights. This course is a 10-day, 9-night expedition.

Project Courage serves as a great next step after the Redwood Adventure course or is a great first step for a student wanting a longer course experience. The name “Project Courage” comes from the root meaning of the word “courage” - from the heart - and the “project” refers to an opportunity for youth to speak their truth in an environment that supports their learning and growth.

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. Sea kayaking 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.

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.