Connecting students to nature. Inspiring them to protect it.

Inspiring the next generation of Changemakers

Since 2004, CI has engaged students in innovative programs that support confidence-building outdoor skill development, immersive environmental learning, and student-directed community action.

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February 26, 2025By Lori Powell

Angevine Students Embrace a Winter Day of Challenge and Adventure

A Day of Challenge Didn’t Deter Students from Enjoying a Snowy Adventure at Caribou Ranch. Written by CI Field Instructor David Diaz. When they set out for their winter field day, Angevine Middle School students in the Community Adventure Program…

Building a Quinzhee Leads to Nature Connection for Centaurus High Students

Nature Connection Arises Through First-Time Experiences in the Snow. Written by CI Field Instructor David Diaz. Although it was a cold winter morning, 22 students from the Centaurus High School Community Adventure Program (CAP) class eagerly set out for a…

A Winter Adventure: Snowshoeing, Snowball Fights, and Stargazing with AXL Academy

Snowshoeing Facilitated Outdoor Learning in the Deep Snow at Cal-Wood. Written by AXL CAP Instructor Harmony Esqueda. AXL Academy 7th graders spent their winter Community Adventure Program (CAP) overnight trip at Cal-Wood Education Center in Jamestown, Colorado. The trip was…

Register Today For The 20th Annual Base Camp Bash!

We are so excited for our 20th Annual Base Camp Bash, which is our main fundraising event to celebrate our community and help raise the critical funding we need to help make our life-changing programs free for our students and families. Join us at Upper Larimer in Denver, CO on Saturday, April 5th, 2025 from 6-10pm and let’s pack the place y’all!

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Your support allows us to offer free programs that break down barriers to the outdoors. Help us connect students to nature and inspire them to protect it – make a tax-deductible donation to Cottonwood Institute today.

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