Camping to Connect is happy to invite you to a weekend of camping, hiking, exploring, learning, bonding and overall FUN, in partnership with theRobert F. Smith STEAM Academy
Camping to Connect (“C2C”) is a BIPOC-led experiential mentorship program that uses outdoor recreation and nature immersion to address the diverse issues faced by young men of color in America’s cities—from mental health to healthy masculinity.
We provide young men of color with a safe space for meaningful conversations, connecting them with nature, their peers, and dedicated mentors. Our leadership reflects the backgrounds of our youth participants, fostering a vital paradigm shift in their self-perception and understanding of their place in the world.
Transportation will be provided to/from the campsite location. Please read below for more information.
Date: June 6 to June 8, 2025
Pick Up Time: 11 AM
Return/Drop Off Time: 1 PM
Pick Up/Drop Off Location: ABC Community Hub at Paris Elementary. 1635 Paris St, Aurora, CO 80010
Campsite Location: The Refuge at Lost Creek, 51934 US Highway 285, Bailey, CO, 80421
Embarking on a journey with Camping to Connect, participants can anticipate an immersive outdoor experience on the land of our partners, The Refuge at Lost Creek. During this 3-day/2-night adventure, you'll traverse the beautiful Colorado landscape with new friends and skilled leaders, while also learning the joys of camping and hiking in the wilderness.
This unique journey, complete with expert leadership and quality outdoor gear, offers a platform to develop valuable outdoor skills.
Led by supportive adult men of color, students are taken out of their comfort zones to connect with each other and nature, and taught both outdoor and life skills that will positively impact their future.
Our weekend-long trips:
Build emotional self-awareness and confidence.
Offer students support and mentorship..
Promote effective communication, leadership, and group development skills.
Instruct students in basic outdoor skills such as trail navigation, campfire building, and more.
Teach participants about community values, teamwork, and personal responsibility.
Allow students to build a deep connection to the outdoors, and form brotherhood.
You will be able to make multiple selections for event dates while registering, including exclusive dates for RFSSA programming, and for General Programming this Summer. Please register today!
Watch the video and continue to read below to learn more about what to expect, what to bring, etc.
STUDENT CONTRACT, PARENT AGREEMENT AND RELEASES
Participants and Parent/Guardian need to review and electronically sign the Student Contract and Code of Conduct, as well as the Parent/Guardian Agreement and Release of Liability. Click here to review and electronically sign these documents.
FOOD
Please have a hearty meal before departure. Snacks and meals will be provided once we arrive at the campsite.
DIETARY RESTRICTIONS
It is very important that all food-related allergies, restrictions, or concerns be listed on your registration form. Late notification of food-related needs may restrict our ability to accommodate you. Please list all food-related restrictions as accurately as possible. C2C will do its best to accommodate your allergies and preferences.
ACCOMMODATIONS
The Refuge at Lost Creek, nestled in the heart of Colorado, spans across stunning wilderness landscapes, offering over 30 acres of pristine terrain surrounded by rugged hills and serene forests. This scenic and tranquil setting serves as the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
SAFETY
We expect to have a fun, safe adventure in the outdoors. That said, participants should be aware that there are inherent risks associated with outdoor adventure activities, including but not limited to adverse weather and environmental conditions, the remote locations of our trips, and transportation in vehicles and on foot. Participant safety is a high priority for all C2C activities. Our staff carries first aid kits, and follows an Action Plan in the event of emergencies.
ENVIRONMENT
The weather in the mountains can vary tremendously during the spring/summer/fall months. While we enjoy warm, clear days, we also experience cold, wet conditions. Be prepared to be out on the trail regardless of the weather. The gear list enclosed in this packet will provide you with all the necessary articles of clothing to keep you comfortable, no matter what Mother Nature brings our way. We have tarps for coverage and rain gear available. We will be alright.
PACKING LIST
Clothing & Equipment: To ensure your safety, we cannot take people to the outdoors without the proper clothing. See the list of necessary equipment below.
Please look closely over the following list. Pack light (but enough for a couple of days). All items are required except those indicated as optional. We will provide all essential camping equipment including tents, sleeping bags, headlamps, etc.
A change of underwear
Socks
1 pair of Shorts
1 pair of Pants (lightweight, no jeans, lightweight sweatpants OK)
T-shirts x2 (synthetic fabric prefered)
Sun Protection Hoodie Long Sleeve
Sweatshirt or fleece jacket
Baselayers (long johns,
Rain jacket or Poncho
Toiletry (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc)
Hat (for protection from sun)
Sunglasses (optional)
Comfortable Sneakers or close toed sandals/camp shoes
Sunscreen (optional)
Please DO NOT bring the following items:
Candy/snacks/gum
Electronics
Drugs
Alcohol
Camping to Connect will provide the following:
Food
Snacks
Lodging
Educational materials
Tents and tarps
Hiking boots
Sleeping bags and ground pads
Backpacks
Stoves and fuel
Cooking equipment
Compass
A digital camera
First aid kit
Water carrier and water treatment
Sunscreen and bug spray (if you have specific needs, please bring your own)
CONTACTS
Please note that in order to create a deeper, more enriching experience in nature, we will be securing participants' cell phones while we’re at the campground. While cell service at the campground can be spotty, in case of emergency, you may reach out to Manny Almonte (917) 742-1744.