Mission
Take a Hike exists to provide underprivileged children with access to nature as a pathway to reduced
stress, improved physical health, and stronger social connection. By taking youth into environments they
have often never experienced, we help them see the world through a new lens one that expands
possibility, confidence, and well-being.
Population Served
In 2025, Take a Hike served children and adolescents ages 8-17 from under-resourced urban
communities in Passaic County, New Jersey. Many participants face barriers, including limited access to safe outdoor spaces, transportation challenges, and few opportunities for structured outdoor activity. For
many youth, Take a Hike provided a first-time opportunity to explore natural environments beyond their
immediate neighborhoods.
Why Access to Nature Matters
Access to nature removes children from the pressures of their daily environment and places them in a
setting that encourages calm, reflection, and curiosity. Time outdoors allows youth to slow down, observe
their surroundings, and consider new perspectives supporting confidence, well-being, and long-term
outlook.
Program Delivery – 2025
- Three guided hikes completed
- Approximately 33-36 children served
- Small-group model of 11-12 children per hike to ensure safety and meaningful engagement
Geographic Reach
Hikes were conducted across northern New Jersey at Ringwood Ironworks State Park, the Fire Tower
Trail in West Milford, and Ramapo Valley County Reservation in Mahwah, exposing youth to forested
trails, scenic viewpoints, and historical landscapes.
Partner Organizations & Repeat Participation
Programs were delivered in partnership with Catholic Charities of Paterson and United Passaic
Organization. Catholic Charities participated in two hikes with many of the same children returning,
demonstrating trust, engagement, and sustained value.
- Access & Barrier Removal
Take a Hike removed participation barriers by providing transportation, meals and snacks, program shirts, footwear assistance, and consistent adult supervision, allowing children to participate safely and with
dignity.
Observed Outcomes
Participants often arrived quiet and reserved but became increasingly curious and engaged as hikes
progressed. Youth explored wildlife, shared discoveries, and demonstrated creativity through
photography. These moments fostered confidence, connection, and reflection.
Safety & Supervision
Each hike included approximately six adult leaders, maintaining a supervision ratio of no more than one
adult per six children. Leaders were experienced hikers. Beginning in 2026, all adult leaders and
volunteers will undergo background checks to further strengthen safeguarding practices.
Community Support & Funding
- $3,000 grant from the Dermody Properties Foundation supporting transportation, footwear, meals,
snacks, and safety supplies
Monetary donation from the West Milford Rotary Club - In-kind transportation support from Greenwood Lake Marina
- Public cultural grant awarded through the Passaic County Cultural & Heritage Council (contract executed
in 2025; funds disbursed in early 2026)
2026 Priorities
- Establish a formal Board of Directors
- Expand outreach and partnerships with schools and community organizations
- Improve financial sustainability, professionalism, and volunteer involvement
Closing
Take a Hike provides children with a safe space to relax, discover, and refocus creating moments of
calm and perspective that support well-being, confidence, and growth.