Survivors of Violence Programs at Outward Bound Wilderness
“I found peace that I thought was lost; found beauty I stopped seeing; and found friends, including myself.”
Outward Bound Wilderness has conducted 3 to 7 day therapeutic wilderness courses in conjunction with agencies, hospitals, psychiatrists and social workers in Colorado since 1982. Our Survivor of Violence Recovery Program offers challenging group experiences that enhance cooperation and trust. Frank discussions and solo time are part of each course and allow participants to work through feelings that surface with the help of therapists on course.
Survivors of sexual assault, incest and domestic violence have a unique opportunity to work together to overcome obstacles, conquer fear and gain support from a group of people who have had to cope with violence in their lives.
For many participants, a connection with their physical body is an important part of the experience. The challenges of Outward Bound require each participant to commit physically, intellectually, emotionally and spiritually to the program. This holistic perspective brings individuals in touch with parts of themselves that have been under-nurtured for years.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
To improve self-confidence through successful accomplishments.
To provide a greater impact in the therapeutic process by quickly moving participants into a stable position.
To transfer new insights gained on course back to the home environment
ACTIVITIES
Challenging activities during the course may include: Problem solving and trust building initiatives, rock climbing, rappelling, orienteering, ropes course, and backpacking.
All courses end with a solo experience to reflect upon the activities, challenges and lessons learned.
Each activity is designed to meet the goals of the participant emotionally and physically. Throughout the course, participants are asked to communicate and share in debrief sessions. These discussions help facilitate the transference of new insights to their life at home.
These activities are designed to help individuals address the following issues:
Trust
Support
Community
OUR STAFF
Our staff are our number one asset. Their professional excellence has helped Outward Bound continually pioneer standards for safety, technical expertise, environmental awareness and experiential education. Our staff are the most highly respected in the wilderness industry. Every course is staffed by at least one Outward Bound Course Director and one Therapist from the referring agency. The therapist is familiar with the participants and will be available to process experiences after the course.
COST AND FINANCIAL AID
Anyone who is a survivor of sexual assault, domestic violence or incest is eligible for (up to full) financial aid for Colorado residents from local VALE and VOCA Boards. The cost of the course is $600 for a 3 day course.
Your agency may also contract with us and bring a group on course with a minimum of eight required. Financial assistance is available and one therapist or agency staff may attend the course at no charge.
For more information:
Contact:
Meg Ryan
Program Development Director
Outward Bound Wilderness
888-837-5211 ext. 2374 or
720-497-2374 mryan@outwardbound.org
