UrbanTrekkers

The Six Key Elements of UrbanTrekkers are:

  1. Community Service

  2. Cross-Cultural Experiences

  3. Environmental Awareness

  4. Historical Perspective

  5. Leadership & Teambuilding

  6. Outdoor Adventure

This program is modelled after the Urban Trekkers program, founded in Camden, New Jersey, 20 years ago, as part of UrbanPromise Camden, our affiliate organization. This program is designed to expose participants ages 11-24 to the diversity of people, places, and natural landscapes outside of their everyday lives. Your support provides hands-on learning, travel, adventure and character development to help shape resilient, informed, and socially engaged youth who contribute positively to their communities.

Four Key Focus Areas

The program adopts a comprehensive approach, treating the world as a classroom and emphasizing experiential learning, mentorship, journaling, and debriefing.

Research has shown that exploring new environments and perspectives encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and adaptability as youth navigate unfamiliar surroundings.

Environmental Awareness

Engaging in outdoor experiences, such as hiking, camping and canoeing, aims to deepen youths’ understanding of the connection between their actions and the environment.

Historical Perspectives

Visits to significant historical sites, like the Underground Railroad and museums, provide youth with insights into their history, fostering a connection to their heritage.

Community Service

Active involvement in planning and executing activities cultivates youths' sense of responsibility towards others and their communities, instilling values of giving back.

Relational
Mentorship

Urban Trekkers places a strong emphasis on mentorship, connecting youth with leaders who understand the unique challenges faced by youth in marginalized communities, thereby enhancing their support network.