Outdoor Explorations

CONTACT:

98 Winchester St.
Medford, MA 02155
781-395-4999
www.outdoorexp.org

Beth Shapiro, Executive Director

DESCRIPTION:

OE brings together people of all abilities, to enjoy and help protect the natural environment and to learn about each other. Since 1991, it has grown from an experimental six trips for 32 people to an established benefit corporation serving 750 participants in a variety of programs: 50 days of educational adventures, 12 environmental stewardship programs and several disability awareness trainings. These programs are led by a corps of 100 dedicated field volunteers.

To illustrate: Christine, living with cerebral palsy, set out for her first hike with Outdoor Explorations in 1995. She felt anxious because she had never set foot on a trail — she worried about keeping up with the others, and about falling in the company of strangers. But when she met her fellow explorers at the trailhead, she relaxed; one used a cane to walk and sign language to communicate. As they hiked, Christine gained confidence. She did fall, into a mucky bog up to her knees, but with help from her mates she was able to hoist herself back onto the wooden walkway and keep on going. That was the first of many hikes for Christine, who has made new friends, gained confidence and, in her mother's words, now "sees herself as a valuable member of the community." Next she wants to try OE's kayaking, white-water rafting, backpacking and sailing.

(1998: HUMAN SERVICES: Well-Being)