Frequently Asked Questions

We asked past participants to share the biggest questions they had before their GOALS expedition—and what they learned along the way. Below you’ll find answers and honest advice based on their experiences.

Still wondering about something? We’ve got you. Reach out through our Contact Us page or email hello@goalsonrivers.org—we’re always happy to help!

Is GOALS a wilderness therapy program?

No. And…yes. The “no” answer is rooted in the facts that (most of) our leaders are not trained therapists and that restorative therapy is not the primary objective. The “yes” answer is rooted in the awareness that GOALS focuses on tenants of Social Emotional Learning while disconnecting from electronics and slowing down outdoors—all of which is, indeed, therapeutic. Over the years, GOALS has often been described as “preventative therapy”—giving kids the tools they need to thrive and overcome preemptively so as to keep them from needing more significant interventions in the future.

Why do I have to “apply” rather than just signing up?

Space on a GOALS expedition is limited, and we work hard to build teams full of kids who will get the most out of their experience AND have a positive impact on the rest of their team. In general, we are looking for kids completing grades 5-12 who are emotionally mature enough to be away from home for an extended period of time and who seek the growth, connection, and camaraderie that GOALS trips foster. If this sounds like you, apply now!

I just applied. When will I know if I am approved?

GOALS reviews applications on a rolling basis, once the application is complete (i.e. we have received the youth application and both of their selected references have responded). Upon review, most applicants receive an acceptance/expedition placement within 30 days. The best thing you can do to expedite the process is ensure that your references complete the request they’ll receive from GOALS as soon as you apply. If you have any questions, just reach out!

Is financial aid available?

Yes. We work very hard to ensure that cost does not prevent kids from being involved. You can learn more about financial assistance from GOALS here—simply indicate that you’ll need financial aid when completing your application, and a Financial Aid form will be added to your account in the GOALS online application / registration system.

What if I don’t have any rafting or camping experience?

That’s great! We love introducing kids to the great outdoors, and will do so in a way that feels “comfortably challenging”—nurturing and supporting your growth while encouraging you to push beyond the comfort zone.

I don’t have any of the expensive gear for camping, though…

That’s okay. Our suggested packing list is tailored to different expedition lengths and contains mostly things that should already be in your closet—with the possible exception of a sleeping bag and good rain gear. (If you don’t own those, just let us know—we’ve got some you can borrow for your expedition!). We’re even going to give you a duffle bag to pack in and check in ahead of your trip to make sure you have what you need to be comfortable and safe throughout.

How many people will be on my expedition team?

Most GOALS expeditions have 12-20 kids, and usually they come from a variety of schools, cities, states, and even countries. To help lead them through the GOALS curriculum, we’ll be sending 2-3 trained mentors—caring role models who generally come from educational, counseling and/or outdoor backgrounds. Additionally, there will be 4-6 licensed professional river guides who help lead us safely through the river and oversee all the important expedition logistics—camping, cooking, etc. So… a “typical” expedition team might be 16 kids, 3 GOALS leaders and 5 guides—a youth to leader ratio of about 2:1.

I’m nervous about not knowing anybody. Can I bring a friend?

Being nervous about meeting new people and trying something new should not stop you from applying—in fact, it should motivate you! Lots of kids come to their GOALS expedition with no prior connection to their team and leave with a solid new group of real friends. Of course, if you and a friend(s) both want to apply, we welcome that, too—and try to honor requests for kids/groups that are accepted who indicate on their application that they would prefer to share their GOALS experience on a specific river.

Can I bring my cell phone, and will there be service?

No, and no. GOALS does not allow cell phones on the river—even just to be used as cameras. Research indicates that time away from our phones improves mental health by allowing us to explore areas of our brain that constant notifications prevent us from existing in. This disconnection is a core component of GOALS programs, and is non-negotiable—our teams get participants to be tuned in to themselves and connected to each other by unplugging and disconnecting from the distractions of unnecessary technology. That said, all teams have the ability to connect with the outside world using satellite phones or other forms of telecommunications should the need arise.

I have dietary restrictions or food allergies. Do I need to bring my own food?

No. You’ll be impressed by “river meals”—and most kids tell us that they eat better on GOALS trips than they do at home! Rafts allow us to carry lots of heavy gear, including a full kitchen setup that results in meals which feel as good as homemade. In terms of dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, halal, etc.)—we’ll ask you to specifically identify your needs in the registration process and have never come across a dietary challenge that we couldn’t accommodate.

I take daily medications—how do I keep them safe?

GOALS requires that any child bringing medications (over the counter or prescription) on their expedition complete a form that defines each medication, when it needs to be administered, and who will be in charge of doing so. Our staff will review this form with a guardian prior to your expedition to ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding the meds you need. In unique cases where your medications/treatment plan requires a power source or is temperature sensitive, we ask that you connect with our staff in advance to ensure that we can guarantee the necessary accommodations.

I absolutely loved my GOALS expedition. How can I support/stay involved now that it’s over?

We keep groups connected through off-season events (guest speakers, first-aid/swiftwater rescue training, volunteer opportunities, informal meet-ups, etc.) and encourage you to sign up for our newsletter to stay informed. Additionally, we encourage kids and families to help keep GOALS available for every interested child by using our INIDIBIBIC platform to friend-raise money while pushing your own boundaries!

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GOALS Youth River Expeditions is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax ID number 26-4664955) under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.