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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Latest Blog Posts
Changemakers Winter Overnight Adventure in Quinzhees
Building Quinzhees for the Winter Overnight Kept Everyone Sheltered from the Cold. Written by Changemakers and Senior CAP Instructor Erin Angel. Changemakers met at the crack of dawn to beat ski traffic to the Colorado Outward Bound School (COBS) in…
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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…
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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…
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Featured Campaign
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!
Support Cottonwood Institute
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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