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Connecting students to nature. Inspiring them to protect it.

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Inspiring the next generation of Changemakers

Since 2004, CI has engaged students in innovative programs that support confidence-building outdoor skill development, immersive environmental learning, and student-directed community action.

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Multi-Day Environmental Programs

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Changemakers

Latest Blog Posts

July 3, 2025By Lori Powell

Reflecting on AXL Academy’s Spring Trimester of Adventure

AXL Academy Middle Schoolers Enjoyed a Spring Trimester full of Fishing, Planting, Creating, and Adventuring! Written by AXL Academy CAP Instructor Harmony Esqueda. AXL Academy 7th graders started the spring trimester by practicing survival skills and learning all about safety…

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July 2, 2025By Lori Powell

Longmont Youth Center Overnight Adventure

Teens from Longmont Youth Center Brought Curiosity, Courage, and Joy to the Overnight Trip. Written by CAP Instructor Sara Grillo. Earlier this summer, Cottonwood Institute teamed up with teens from the Longmont Youth Center for an overnight adventure full of…

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June 30, 2025By Lori Powell

Into the Labyrinth: Changemakers Summer Trip 2025

Experiences in Labyrinth Canyon and with Regenerative Agriculture Provided Changemakers with Opportunities to Show Grit, Growth, and Share Plenty of Laughs. Written by Changemakers Senior Instructor Chelsea Tossing. We spent our first day in Dinosaur National Monument trying to find…

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Your support allows us to offer free programs that break down barriers to the outdoors. Help us connect students to nature and inspire them to protect it – make a tax-deductible donation to Cottonwood Institute today.

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