A scenic view of a pristine, still lake reflecting the trees and rocks that surround it

|

Navigating Uncertainty with Hope and Action

Written by Teagan Papke, Director of Strategic Partnerships; Chelsea Tossing, Associate Director; and Ford Church, Founder and Executive Director The past few weeks have brought a wave of policy changes that have sparked concern and uncertainty for many in the communities we serve. From shifts in immigration policies, rolling back environmental protections, removing protections for… Read more »

|

A Winter Fishing Adventure with AXL Academy 8th Graders

From Fishing and Whittling to Shelter Building and Wading: CAP Students Enjoyed a Sunny Escape. Written by AXL Academy CAP Instructor Harmony Esqueda. On a brisk, sunny December afternoon, AXL Academy 8th graders in the Community Adventure Program (CAP) class explored Chatfield State Park for a day full of adventure. As we started on a… Read more »

|

Student Passions Guided Centaurus High School’s CAP Class Projects

A Passion for Food Facilitated Connecting Students with Each Other and the Natural World. Written by Senior CAP Instructor Erin Angel. The Centaurus High School Community Adventure Program (CAP) Class wrapped up another super semester in December, with their shared passion for food guiding some of their activities. The class, which began with only four… Read more »

|

Angevine Middle School’s CAP Program: A Semester of Growth, Laughter, and Connections

Building Strong Connections Through Outdoor Adventure. Written by CAP Instructor Mel Georgi. As the semester comes to a close, the Community Adventure Program (CAP) at Angevine Middle School has proven to be a transformative experience for students and myself; filled with growth, learning, and meaningful connections. From their first class to their final outdoor adventure,… Read more »

Photo of the Changemakers Alumi gathered for a hike in the snow

|

Reunited and It Feels So Good!

The Changemaker Program continues to have successful social and leadership development gatherings for CAP high school alumni, who enjoy each opportunity to be reunited. Written by CI Senior Instructor Erin Angel. Cottonwood Changemakers Alumni reunited this weekend for the first-ever Alumni Hike. They caught up with each other’s lives, schools, and jobs, and exchanged stories… Read more »

A CHS student reflects while taking in a beautiful view of the valley

|

Help Unlock A $25,000 Match

  Have you ever had one of those moments where you want to do something to help a worthy nonprofit in your community, but you don’t know where to start? We feel you. Well, today is your lucky day because 3 generous families have stepped up to offer a $25,000 match to Cottonwood Institute to… Read more »

A CHS student relaxes under the yellow leaves of Aspen trees in autumn

|

Centaurus High School’s CAP Class Creates Cultural Connections in Colorado’s High Country

Where First-Time Campers and Colorado Natives Unite for an Unforgettable Fall Overnight Adventure in Allenspark. Written by CI Field Instructor Caroline Paul. Lafayette’s very own Centaurus High School (CHS) took their Fall CAP trip this last weekend to Cheley’s Outpost in Allenspark. The weather was beautiful, and with the Aspens at peak foliage, students were… Read more »

Cottonwood Institute
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.