In February, Arizona-native Kim Tucker donated an Osprey backpack and more useful gear to Teens to Trails. To learn how she found us, and what motivated her to ship a big box across the country, we asked Tucker to share her outdoor story.

In July 2013, after completing her sophomore year at Wiscasset High School, 16-year old Maeve Carlson was awarded the adventure of a lifetime. Carlson, an active member of the Wiscasset High School Outing Club, liked nothing more than getting outside with peers and her energetic club advisor, Ralph Keyes. “I could always tell he was just as excited to be outside as the rest of us,” Carlson said.

Meet an inspiring Maine high school teacher and dedicated benefactor who made it possible for one outing club to experience life-changing adventures outdoors.

We put together this 6 week curriculum that is grounded in play and curiosity, offering basic skills with a goal for participants to gain comfort in just being in nature without a significant agenda. It can be hosted by an Outing Club, a Recreation Department, Teen Center, home school group or simply a group of friends.