“Whatever course you decide upon, there is always someone to tell you that you are wrong. There are always difficulties arising which tempt you to believe that your critics are right. To map out a course of action and follow it to an end requires courage.”

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Courage to Change

Providing gang entrenched youth with the opportunity for change….

IIn the spring of 2009 Courage to Change joined the NPS Volunteer in Parks Program.

Courage to Change cadets donated more than 1000 volunteer hours in 2009.

Rehabilitation

Using biodegradable, citrus-based solvents the Courage to Change team eliminated all of the graffiti from the Foothills area of the park.

“We helped [the NPS] preserve nature and its beauty for park visitors to see.”

~ Jose PerezCourage to Change

Cadet

Courage to Change cadets refurbished the amphitheater and repaired, sanded and repainted the picnic tables at all sites in Potwisha Campground.

“[The work] helped me learn new skills, use proper tools, and to understand the forest better.”

~Erik Cabrera Courage to Change

Cadet

“It made me very happy and proud of myself.”

~Antwaine Turbin Courage to Change

Cadet

RestorationFollowing a big storm event in October, cadets contributed to the storm repair project for the restoration of Halstead Meadow.

200 erosion-control wattles were carried ¼ mile and placed with 1000 wood stakes.

“Throughout this project, the boys were courteous, hard-working, and motivated. Courage to Change filled a critical need in this important project.”

~ Athena Demetry NPS Restoration

Ecologist

“It helped me realize that volunteer work actually makes a difference.”

~ Etienne Alderette

Courage to Change Cadet

Throughout the late summer and early fall, cadets worked in the native plant greenhouse to remove and install shade netting, transplant thousands of seedlings, and construct 16 large raised propagation frames.

“It made me feel good to know that I was helping the environment.”

~ Josh HudsonCourage to Change

Cadet

“Courage to Change recognized that the Parks had an important need and took immediate steps to address this need. They have been indispensable to the National Parks.”

~ Melanie Baer-Keeley

NPS Restoration Horticulturist

“[Our work] will keep the park fresh and breath taking for everyone to see.”

~ Nathan WilliamsCourage to Change

Cadet

EventsCadets assisted with logistics at the Krebs Wilderness dedication.

“[Volunteering] helped me build leadership skills and working in any job involves communication which is involved in teamwork.”

~ Etienne Alderette

Courage to Change Cadet

“Promise me you’ll always remember: You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

~ Christopher Robin to Pooh