WHAT IS YAYA OUTDOOR ED?

The Start of New Beginnings...

There has always been a vital need to connect students with the outdoors, fostering environments where they feel empowered and engaged with nature. Whether through linking classroom lessons to natural settings or organizing week-long excursions for 4th to 6th graders, Vaiola has witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of nature on students. Through various outdoor education programs and summer camps, Vaiola observed that high school students often missed out on being participants, instead taking on leadership roles such as Cabin Leaders and CITs.

When Vaiola took on the role of Assistant Summer Director for Vida Verde’s Summer Leadership Project, the need for a dedicated program for high school students became even clearer. It was evident that these students required a program tailored specifically to their needs and experiences.

Youth and Young Adult Outdoor Education (YAYA Outdoor Ed) is committed to offering a dynamic curriculum designed for older students. Our program empowers high school students with the autonomy to choose their daily activities and equips them with skills to prepare and serve delicious, home-cooked meals using fresh, high-quality ingredients. At YAYA Outdoor Ed, students learn the significance of Leave No Trace (LNT) practices and engage in environmental stewardship through ecology and permaculture. Above all, we strive to create a space where students can reflect on various aspects of their identity.

We offer this program at an affordable rate with the goal of eventually providing it free of charge to ensure as many students as possible can benefit from this enriching experience.

Vaiola teaching at Memorial Park, 2018

mission and vision

Prioritizing the Mission

Our mission is to provide transformative experiences that foster personal reflection, ownership of the kitchen, and an understanding of indigenous stewardship. We believe every individual deserves to connect deeply with nature and themselves. Through our programs, we create a supportive, community-driven environment where participants can explore their unique journeys, cultivate personal growth, and embrace the beauty and lessons of the natural world.

Our Vision

Our vision is to build a vibrant, inclusive community where youth and young adults can explore and grow through immersive outdoor experiences. We’re dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing space that encourages personal reflection and growth, with a special focus on exploring and affirming individual identities. By bringing people together in nature, we aim to foster a deeper sense of connection and empowerment within our community.

YAYA Outdoor Ed Values

The Mission Comes First

At the heart of our organization is a steadfast commitment to our mission. We are driven by a deep dedication to enhancing our program in ways that prioritize the needs and well-being of our participants. Every decision we make is guided by our core mission, ensuring that our efforts are always focused on delivering the best possible experience. This mission-centric approach means that our participants are always at the forefront of our planning, driving us to continually innovate and improve for their benefit.

People Are Seen and Heard

We believe that every individual is unique and valuable, and that everyone deserves to be seen and heard. Our commitment to inclusivity and community means creating an environment where all voices are respected and all contributions are valued. By fostering an atmosphere of openness and empathy, we ensure that every participant feels recognized and engaged. This dedication to community strengthens our collective experience and enhances the impact of our program.

Lifelong Learners

We are passionate about nurturing curiosity and promoting lifelong learning. Our program goes beyond traditional education, equipping participants with essential life skills and a mindset for continuous growth. We recognize that survival tools aren’t just physical; they also encompass critical thinking, emotional resilience, and adaptive problem-solving. By encouraging a love for learning and exploration, we prepare our participants for success in all aspects of their lives.

Change Is Necessary

We embrace change as a vital component of our growth and improvement. In our quest to provide the most effective and enriching experiences, we understand that adapting and evolving are essential. We actively seek feedback and reflect on our practices to ensure that our program remains dynamic and responsive to the needs of our participants. By welcoming change, we continually refine our approach to deliver a program that is both relevant and impactful.