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Connecting students to nature. Inspiring them to protect it.

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Inspiring the next generation of Changemakers

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.

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In-School Programs

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Out of School & Summer Programs

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Alumni Programs

Latest Blog Posts

November 12, 2026By Lori Powell

Overnight Camping, Fishing, and Piñata Fun for AXL 8th

Students Took Their Learning Outdoors During an AXL 8th-Grade Overnight Camping Trip Full of Nature Exploration, a Birthday Celebration, and Campfire Fun Written by CI Field Instructor Megan Casady. AXL’s 8th-grade Community Adventure Program (CAP) class had a magical overnight…

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November 2, 2026By Lori Powell

Moose Sightings and Mountain Adventures on the Angevine Middle School Camping Trip

The CAP Middle School Camping Trip was Filled with Fishing, Games, Moose Sightings, and Mountain Memories Written by Harmony Esqueda, Angevine Middle School CAP Instructor & Social Media Coordinator. Angevine Middle School (AMS) students eagerly gathered outside of the school…

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October 27, 2026By Lori Powell

All Play and No Work? Not our Alumni! Trail Restoration Brings Both

An Alumni Outdoor Adventure Combines Hands-On Trail Restoration, Lakeside Camping, and Plenty of Laughter in the Colorado Mountains Written by Senior Instructor, Changemakers & Alumni Coordinator, Erin Angel. Cottonwood Alumni were up bright and early, meeting at the gear room…

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Featured Campaign

Double your Impact when you Donate through December 31st!

A generous $25,000 matching commitment gives us the opportunity to double the impact of our community’s support for our life-changing programs! Make a year-end gift today, and your gift will be matched through December 31st!

Inspire A Changemaker

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
Cottonwood Institute
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