In an increasingly digital and divided world, young people are facing rising levels of disconnection from nature, from one another, and from a sense of purpose. Through a unique blend of outdoor experience and community action, our programs create opportunities for students to step outside the classroom and into their own power— cultivating the confidence and connection they need to become changemakers in their communities.
AXL 7th Graders Get Hands-On with Skulls, Skins, and Pond Critters at Golden Gate Canyon State Park. Written by CI Field Instructor Shawn Heyland. The plan for Ms. E’s 7th-grade AXL trip was to head out into nearby nature to…
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From Anxious First Steps to Triumphant High-Fives, AXL 8th Graders Discovered their Inner Strength on the Vertical Rock. Written by CI Field Instructor Shawn Heyland. Rock climbing isn’t for the faint of heart, and Ms. E’s 8th-grade AXL CAP class…
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Our Headlamp Highlights shine a light on the people and organizations that help our Cottonwood community thrive. We are excited to highlight our Cottonwood Institute (CI) Board Member, Candace Richter, who has been on the CI Board since September 2024.…
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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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