Cal-Wood is a unique outdoor educational experience for both youths and adults – especially those who might not otherwise have access and opportunity to experience nature.
“Recently, the mother of one of our Latino campers really summed up what we’re all about,” says Rafael Salgado, Executive Director of Cal-Wood, a grantee of the Community Foundation and a unique outdoor educational experience for both youths and adults – especially those who might not otherwise have access and opportunity to experience nature.
“She said, ‘My family has participated in other outdoor programs, but there’s something different about Cal-Wood. I’ve come to realize that it’s the staff and instructors that make Cal-Wood so special, so welcoming. There are no barriers to participating in your activities, which creates a safe and comfortable environment for kids and families.’
“After 35 years’ providing environmental education in a special mountain setting, that’s exactly what we want to hear.”
In particular, working with immigrant families – especially Latino families and kids – has taken on new significance in recent months.
“There’s no doubt that there’s heightened concern among some of the families we serve,” explains Rafael. “Concern about their safety, and their future. At Cal-Wood, we break down those barriers. We transform fear into empowerment.
“So often, when it’s time for a group of kids to leave, they don’t want to leave. They feel safe and welcome here.”
Indeed, Cal-Wood staff members receive sensitivity training to ensure their understanding and effectiveness with a diversity of youths and families from different backgrounds, and Cal-Wood’s Latino family camp is taught by Latino staff.
“To help instill a greater appreciation for the natural world, we first establish and build on cultural connections,” Rafael continues. “When Latino kids are welcomed by me – a Latino – and taught by Latino staff, they feel good about being here. They recognize themselves in us. They look up to us. And we have the privilege of becoming role models for them.
“They may arrive with scared looks on their faces. But by the end of the first day, they’re wearing smiles. By the third day, they don’t want to go home! It’s a combination of factors and details – from the food we serve, to our personalized approach to every group and every child, to the natural wonders outside their cabin windows – that make Cal-Wood so special, to so many.”
Currently, Rafael is most excited about the near completion of a new lodge, scheduled to open in May.
“It’s the first new building in our history, so it’s a really big deal for us,” he says. “It will accommodate more kids and the growing demand for our programming. By expanding our capacity, we’ll accommodate schools even better, and still be able to accommodate smaller groups, too. It’s a win-win for our community, and for environmental education.”
