River City Youth Ops tells kids, “Take a hike.”
The twist? They’re taking kids on said hike– or several hikes, if the rumors are to be believed. In late March, I visited Wilson Faust at Yasuhara Middle School to learn more about one of River City Youth Ops’ budding programs: the Outdoors Club.
Wilson’s official title is Engagement Navigator, but I was so impressed by his patience and clever redirection with the (naturally expressive) group of middle schoolers that ‘Veteran Cat Herder’ would be equally fitting. Before meeting these young scholars, Wilson and I had a chance to chat. It was then that he revealed the philosophy at the core of the Outdoors Club.
The Outdoors Club isn’t just an excuse to sally forth against the treacherous rocks and twisted paths of our local parks and green spaces. Participants learn about things like teamwork, awareness, respect for nature, and clear communication.
