Through the Equinox Foundation Grant Program at Innovia, the Coeur d’Alene-based Human Rights Education Institute (HREI) was awarded $15,000 to host a pilot for its “I AM Program” to support at-risk youth in Bonner County, Idaho.
The program helps foster youth, children in juvenile probation and LGBTQIA+ youth build connections with their community. Healing, engagement with nature and self-identity exploration are major focuses as the campers participate in outdoor activities, including fishing, sailing and swimming lessons, building teamwork and self-confidence. Through facilitated reflections, campers then learn how to connect the activity with struggles they face at home or in school, providing the opportunity to learn new skills and bond with other participants.
“We want to provide these kids opportunities for success, and we can only do that if they feel good about themselves and are connected to their community,” said Jeanette Laster, Executive Director of HREI. The connections made at camp — both student-to-student and student to-counselor — can continue into school, providing campers with friendly faces and year-round support.
"We want to provide these kids opportunities for success, and we can only do that if they feel good about themselves and are connected to their community."
The connections made at camp — both student-to-student and student to-counselor — can continue into school, providing campers with friendly faces and year-round support.
