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.
Follow One Student’s Day-by-Day Recap of Their 2026 Changemakers Capstone Outdoor Adventure Written by Changemaker (and Ripple Effect Award-winning) student Kay Young. At the end of each year, Changemakers has one last week-long trip. Some years the trip is only…
Read More
Through Climbing, Fishing, and Exploring Colorado’s Parks, Nature-Based Learning Gave Students Hands-On Opportunities to Discover, Connect, and Grow. Written by Cottonwood Institute Field Instructor Carly Winner. Over two field days with two groups from Sims-Fayola, one younger group and one…
Read More
After Building New Outdoor Skills, Teens Put Youth Leadership into Action by Planning and Leading a Backyard Overnight to Inspire the Next Generation of Campers Recently, our Casa de la Esperanza teens spent two days putting their newly developed camping…
Read More
The Throwdown has become one of the best charity cornhole tournaments in Denver. Come enjoy a fun afternoon outside with delicious food and beverages, while supporting Cottonwood programs. Whether you’re an expert or you’ve never heard of the game before, it is a great time for all!
Register today for The Throwdown on Saturday, July 25th, 2026 from 10am – 2pm at McGregor Square in Denver, CO.
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