While Many People were Recovering from Thanksgiving Dinner—or Braving Crowded Stores—Cottonwood Institute Alumni Chose a Different Kind of Black Friday Tradition: an Opt Outside Hike. Written by Erin Angel, CI Senior Instructor, Changemakers & Alumni Coordinator.
The day after Thanksgiving, Cottonwood alumni gathered in beautiful Eldorado Canyon for a hike, games, and time to simply be together outdoors. Students home from colleges across the country reunited with friends they first met through Changemakers, picking up conversations like no time had passed. Laughter, shared memories, and fresh air set the tone for a day rooted in connection rather than consumption.
Along the trail, the group played games, explored the canyon, and took part in a half hour of solo time—an intentional pause to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with nature. It was a powerful reminder that some of the most meaningful experiences don’t come with a price tag.
Our Opt Outside Friday hike was about choosing community over consumerism and friendships over shopping bags. We’re incredibly proud of our alumni for continuing to show up for one another and for the outdoors that shaped them. Thanks to the support of our donors, these relationships—and this love for nature—keep growing long after graduation.
A sincere thank you to everyone who attended the 2025 Base Camp Bash event, which helped raise the critical funding for our Alumni Engagement programs.
If you are also passionate about getting students outside to connect with nature and each other, please consider making a donation or becoming a monthly donor! You’ll help invest in our students, programs, and long-term sustainability and success!
