Empower 400 Youth to Make a More Peaceful Tomorrow

It is quiet here at Hidden Villa now that camp is over, the days are shorter and school has begun. This summer was another wonderful summer full of new experience, old friendships and the burning embers of change on the horizon.

 

We started a new program this summer in partnership with The Alpine of the Americas Project. Eleven campers got the opportunity to embark on an 18 day epic backpacking trip in Yosemite National Park. They began their hike from Hetch Hetchy hiking through the destruction of last year's Rim Fire. While they got personal with the destructive power of wildfire, they also got to experience nature's ambition with fields of Lupin. The trail took them through the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne and to Mt. Lyell. As they stood at the base, of the now stagnant glacier, they were able to experience the dwindling resource of San Francisco's water. 

 

These campers finished their hike in Yosemite Valley after summiting Cloud's Rest and volunteering in the park removing invasive plants. When they returned to Hidden Villa after their long, three week journey, all they would say in response to "How was it?" was "AMAZING!" with facial expressions of awe as they reflected on all the memories and sights they had seen. The good bye at the end of the three weeks was long and tear-filled as they were all reluctant to leave and put an end to this life changing experience.

"I deeply appreciate having a place that always feels like home. After 15 years I have made so many memories here that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Hidden Villa has on a few occasions been the light at the end of some very dark tunnels. My friends have become a family and the things that I have learned about others and myself have helped to form the woman I am today. I wish I could accurately put this much love into words, but since I can't, I am grateful to have the opportunity to share this gift of Hidden Villa with new youth, hopefully for many years to come." - Sierra Backpacking Camper

This is the opportunity of Hidden Villa Summer Camp. Beyond the ability to engage campers in conversation and experiences on the farm we now have now taken them into the world and developed a stronger sense of awe for human and natural beauty. Thank you for supporting Hidden Villa in making these opportunities accessible to youth in our community.