In an increasingly digital and divided world, young people are facing rising levels of disconnection from nature, from one another, and from a sense of purpose. Through a unique blend of outdoor experience and community action, our programs create opportunities for students to step outside the classroom and into their own power— cultivating the confidence and connection they need to become changemakers in their communities.
Our Winter Training Brought Staff to Brainard Lake for Snow Shelters, Wilderness Medicine Scenarios, and Joyful Learning in Winter Conditions Written by CI Field Instructor Hailey Schmidt. Cottonwood Institute staff kicked off 2026 with a chilly and fun-filled winter training.…
Read More
A Day of Service, Gratitude, and Community Rooted in Social Justice and Collective Action Written by Erin Angel, CI Senior Instructor, Changemakers & Alumni Coordinator. On Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, Cottonwood alumni, Changemakers, and family members came together…
Read More
As the Year’s Shortest Day Arrived, Cottonwood Alumni Came Together for a Solstice Hike Rooted in Reflection and Connection Written by Erin Angel, CI Senior Instructor, Changemakers & Alumni Coordinator. We gathered in the afternoon at Golden Gate Canyon State…
Read More
The Base Camp Bash is our annual fundraising event on Saturday, April 11th, 2026 from 6-10pm at Upper Larimer in Denver. Join us to help raise the critical funds we need each year to connect students to the outdoors and inspire them to take action to improve their schools, the community, and the environment for future generations. With your support, we can keep our programs free for our students and families.
Your tax-deductible donation will help students step outside the classroom, into the outdoors, and into their own power, cultivating the confidence and connection they need to become changemakers in their communities.
Donate Today