Wolf Ridge Trip for High School Scholars!

THE HIGHLIGHT OF SOPHOMORE YEAR! 

Your donation will make it possible for scholars to attend Wolf Ridge again in 2025!

For the past several years, Hiawatha Collegiate High School scholars embarked on ambitious night hikes, tested their gumption on the ropes courses, and even had the thrill of handfeeding chickadees at Wolf Ridge. It was incredibly rewarding to witness their growth in various ways, whether it was by embodying the role of magma in a nighttime activity, challenging themselves physically on the ropes course, or forging new friendships by getting to know a roommate who had previously been just an acquaintance.

One moment that stood out in 2024 was when one of the juniors, who had recently moved from Ecuador, expressed his excitement upon seeing the wooded areas and hills in this part of Minnesota. He shared, "It reminds me of my country." This connection to nature and the sense of familiarity it brought to him was truly heartwarming.

As we made our sleepy bus ride home, the scholars' conversations were filled with enthusiasm and fond memories. Many of them called Wolf Ridge the highlight of their junior year. This trip not only provided them with fun and adventure but also fostered personal growth, strengthened friendships, and created a sense of belonging. The experiences and bonds formed at Wolf Ridge will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on their lives.

This is what one of our students had to say; "Although I initially wasn’t planning to go to Wolf Ridge, a last-minute decision led me to embrace this unique opportunity to push myself out of my comfort zone. This trip turned out to be an eye-opening experience, not only for me but also for my classmates. Together, we learned about the wonders of nature, gaining a richer understanding of the history and significance of the Finland area and its lakes. We also explored the rich heritage of Native American cultures and the cultural significance of various landmarks, which provided us with a profound context for our surroundings."

Throughout their time at Wolf Ridge, scholars acquired practical skills such as fire-making, which fostered a sense of self-reliance and capability. The experience also brought us closer together, as we learned to support one another during challenging activities like the ropes course and various team-building games. 

One of the most significant values I took away from Wolf Ridge was the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone. This trip allowed me to discover my personal limits and strengths, helping me grow both individually and as a part of a community. The experience taught me resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of teamwork. These lessons will undoubtedly stay with me, influencing how I approach future challenges and opportunities.

Wolf Ridge was an extraordinary experience! It played a pivotal role in strengthening relationships within our school community by providing an opportunity to connect with students outside the confines of the classroom. Witnessing the remarkable increase in trust among students for the rest of the year after our shared wilderness adventure at Wolf Ridge was truly gratifying. The students not only had an incredible amount of fun, but for many, it was their first-ever "camp" experience. 

Exposing them to the stunning beauty of Minnesota and the educational wonders of nature is undoubtedly a lifelong memory they will cherish. The activities and challenges they faced helped them grow in confidence and camaraderie. Moreover, the trip offered teachers chance to bond with their colleagues in a unique and relaxed environment. This significantly boosted school morale and strengthened our co-worker relationships, making the entire educational team more cohesive and supportive. The positive impacts of this trip extended far beyond the immediate experience, fostering a more connected and engaged school community throughout the year.