GOALS ("Get Outside And Learn Something" is a 501(c)3 non-profit using a powerful curriculum embedded in wilderness river expeditions to empower young people.

This is not just another outdoor education program build on a rafting platform.  By delivering an extraordinary growth-focused curriculum embedded in a world-class adventure, GOALS expeditions change young lives.    

Our powerful curriculum leverages the power of a wilderness river expedition to create connections and metaphorically teach life lessons that last long beyond the take-out.  Designed by a team of professional educators and experienced wilderness guides to do much more than just develop outdoor skill sets and provide academic enrichment opportunities outside of the classroom, our Class I, II, and III curricula are differentiated for the ages and experience levels of our participants.  Each combines lessons that encourage curiosity and foster imaginative discovery with activities that empower participants as they push beyond perceived limits.

Of course, this growth occurs in highly revered canyons where access is limited, electronic distractions don't exist, and where there's no time, energy, or desire to look or act in a manner that isn't completely authentic.  The unique combination of inspiration and accomplishment that comes from recognizing and overcoming vulnerability to do more than was previously thought possible within the canyons we explore justifies the effort it takes to get there.

Ultimately, it is the powerful combination of strategic curriculum, revered settings, and dynamic leaders that make our mission possible and set GOALS expeditions apart from all other youth empowerment programs.

GOALS expeditions create long-term transformations in the way kids view themselves and their capacity to impact the people and places around them.

Many children experience their first GOALS expedition in elementary school, then return through middle and high school - even college.  Therefore, the GOALS curriculum was designed to build connections that are most powerful and appropriate for specific age groups. 

Class I expeditions are designed for participants aged 9-12, and focus primarily on creating connections with their peers.  Class II expeditions are designed for participants aged 11-17, and focus primarily on creating connections with the planet.  Class III expeditions are designed for participants aged 16+, and focus primarily on creating awareness and connections with self.

While program objectives vary with age, every GOALS expedition is centered around an empowering 4-step growth process that involves searching, navigating, reflecting, and believing. 

GOALS expeditions are structured to have profound impacts on all participants.

Our differentiated journals incorporate lessons and activities that lead to individual growth and group camaraderie. 

To preview each curriculum, please simply click on the journal below. 
To properly comprehend its' power, of course, you'll need to guided through it by one of our incredible expedition leaders.

The growth that comes from participation in a GOALS wilderness river expedition is available to all kids. 

Intentional program development, tenacious fundraising, and a differentiated curriculum allow GOALS to serve a wide spectrum of participants.  Enrollment is available to any interested child, and programs can be built for groups through specific schools, scout troops, etc. - or kids can register as individuals and join existing groups that have space available.  

Some of our program participants cover their own expedition costs, and may even contribute to the GOALS "ripple effect" scholarship fund - enabling those less fortunate to experience the same growth that they will.  Others will require some financial aid, and in extreme situations some programs for exceptional youth from disadvantaged backgrounds are offered at no cost. 

GOALS participants arrive at their expeditions from a variety of backgrounds.  Once we're on the river, the simple beauty is...none of that matters.  Since our founding in 2010, no interested child has been unable to participate in a GOALS program due to financial limitations.  Through valuable partnerships and generous support from those who value the impact that GOALS can make on all lives, we intend to keep that streak alive.