Outdoor Experiential Program

Outdoor Experiential Program

The Outdoor Experiential Program at Robert J. Lister Academy entails a collaborative partnership with the Appalachian Mountain Club, and its innovative Youth Opportunities Program. AMC/YOP strives to provide education, recreation and conservation awareness about the natural world around us. The focal point of the YOP is youth development and environmental awareness through participation in outdoor adventures such as; hiking, camping, backpacking, snowshoeing and canoeing.

YOP supports agencies serving youth from urban-lower income communities by providing outdoor leadership trainings to teachers who are passionate about connecting youth with the outdoors. Scholarships, free equipment loans, discounted lodges, and unlimited peer support are some of the benefits of the YOP community.

RJLA is committed to make outdoor trips an accessible and unforgettable experience for our students. The purposes of the trips are to provide experiential learning opportunities, foster self-esteem, leadership skills, teamwork, and a sense of community and spirit of adventure. RJLA invites all students of all ages and abilities to explore and develop a deep appreciation of the natural world around them, and inspire them to get outdoors. Connecting youth with nature has a plethora of benefits for their cognitive, social and emotional development. Overnight trips are taken twice a year with additional day trips throughout the school year.