Camping to Connect is partnering with the International High School at La Guardia Community College to offer a series of outdoor experiences and opportunities to learn the healing power of nature in a spirit of fellowship and community.
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.
On Friday, May 17, 2024, we’ll embark on a Spring day hike that will allow us to explore and better understand our natural surroundings, strengthen observation skills, and help us see another part of the world right before our eyes.
Location & Schedule
Departure Time: 8:30 am
Expected return time: 3PM
Meeting Location: International HS at LGCC, 45-35 Van Dam St, Long Island City, NY 11101
Hike Location: 1001 Arden Valley Rd. Southfields, NY, 10975 (Elk Pen Parking Lot at Harriman State Park)
Trail information
We will be hiking 5.23 miles of the Island Pond Via Appalachian Trail (Lemon Squeezer) out and back.
What to bring
Comfortable sneakers or hiking boots
2 Large Water bottles
Snacks
Fruit (banana or apples preferred)
Sandwich in a sealable bag
Backpack
Baseball cap or beanie
Windbreaker, vest, fleece or lightweight jacket appropriate for the weather.
Staff information
This day hike will be led by Carlos Davila, Omari Haughton, and Frank Mena.
Camping to Connect’s programming is designed to:
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, bird watching, and more.
Teach participants about community values, teamwork, and personal responsibility.
Allow students to build a deep connection to the outdoors, and form brotherhood.
Camping to Connect is a program of the Young Masterminds Initiative, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, founded by members of Mastermind Connect, a collective of progressive men of color who believe in inspiring change by nurturing camaraderie, fostering accountability, and cultivating trust, leadership, and support.