Grant Years: 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025
Mountains 2 Sea (MTNS2SEA)
MTNS2SEA empowers high school age youth through outdoor adventure learning to help them reach their personal potential. Through outings in the mountains and on the sea, participants develop a strong foundation for personal health and well-being, expand their understanding of the natural world, and gain practical life skills. Youth served are enrolled in alternative education programs and continuation high schools in Santa Cruz and Watsonville. The opportunity to include outdoor adventures in their weekly schedule is unique and a welcomed change for youth who are dealing with a number of struggles. Students apply for the program and MTNS2SEA staff work with the teachers, administrators, and counselors to give priority to students who most need support. This creates a dynamic group at each school with youth who have made a commitment for self-growth and community development.
MTNS2SEA teaches youth about the impact of human industry on our fragile coastal environment and then gives the students the opportunity to give back through stewardship projects. Their experiences in the outdoors empowers young people to take the steps necessary for preservation of natural resources for future generations, and at the same time provides a space for healing with the intention of developing the self, overcoming challenges, and cultivating positive relationships while immersed in the healing power of nature.
By participating in challenging activities, youth build self-confidence, improve social and emotional well-being, and increase weekly physical activity. MTNS2SEA youth set weekly goals that enable them to accomplish larger goals and helps increase attendance and engagement at school.
