An Update to Our Community

Phase 1: Desirability - What kind of wilderness program should we offer? 

We have completed the first round of research with prospective families with children who are looking for a wilderness camp program.  

We discovered:    

• One the surface, many of the over two dozen similar programs we looked at across the country offer similar program. What set FC and RSG apart was the depth of experience and connection with other community members and nature.   
• Other programs are mostly small-scale ventures, without connection to a larger organization and often with a limited offering or dates and services. (some are bring your own tent, or even bring your own food!)  
• 79% of parents surveyed were looking for a camp of two-weeks or less. 
• While at a higher price that similar programs, F&W’s Affordable for All program brings cost of camp in line with what families would be able to pay.
  
• The culture and practices of “timelessness” at FC and RSG appears to be unique to F&W and directly connects to the delivery of connection to nature and unplugging from technology.  
  
  

We are using this research to inform our program concepts for a future wilderness program, including the Wilderness Program Definition below.  

Wilderness Program Definition:   
The Wilderness Programs at Farm and Wilderness provides participants with a profound sense of social comfort, belonging, and recognition within a close-knit community. Individuals are not only known but also integrated into a shared identity, disrupting traditional societal norms and allowing for the full expression and acceptance of diverse identities. Moreover, the emphasis on participants' dependency on and closeness to the earth, cultivating a sense of awe and deeper appreciation for the natural world. Intentional deconstruction of time creates an environment of “timeless peace”, free from the pressures of everyday life. This facilitates a deeper spiritual life for each participant. Learning and daily practice of skills to live in comfort with nature can be leveraged for personal growth, finding challenge and fulfillment in individual and communal outdoor activities. This uninterrupted and constant close connection with the land, combined with community rituals and celebrations fosters self-confidence and resilience, empowering participants to navigate and thrive in future environments.   

We have had two meetings with our Advisory Committe. Thanks to all the members for making that commitment. We would like more representation for Red Spruce Grove – please contact Chris Moncrief if you are available. 

Phase 2: Viability – Will the new program offering be operationally  sustainable? 

the second meeting of the Advisory Committee brought us into an analysis of Program Concepts.   There is are elements that are foundational, such as fostering a deep connection with nature and will be includedd in all Program Concepts.   Each Program Concept will focus upon a specific element such aa:

• Mentorship
• Rites of Passage
• Emotional Wellbeing
• Physical and Mental Challenges

There will be a survey specifically designed to get input on these Program Concepts and current and former FC and RSG families will be invited to participate.  Look for updates here on this page and in emails from Farm and Wilderness.  

Phase 3: Feasibility – Can we build and deliver the new program offering? 

April 15th to May 3rd 

May 4th  F&W Board Meeting 

Week of May 13th – Public announcement of program offering.