When young people train for life in the ring, they build strength, discipline, and grit.
When those same youth step into the wilderness for a five-day expedition, something deeper takes root.
This August, Outside Perspectives and Charter Oak Boxing Academy (COBA) partnered on two outdoor expeditions.
They were back-to-back and 5 days each. One was for young men and one was for young women.
These youth traded boxing gloves for paddles, gym floors for forest trails, and discovered more about themselves than they imagined.
With the outdoors as their backdrop, growth and connection happened naturally.
Building “Champions of Life”
COBA’s mission is clear: Keep at-risk youth off the streets and on a path to post-secondary success. Their approach blends amateur boxing with holistic life skills, mentoring, and academic support.
This expedition wasn’t just a field trip. It was an extension of that mission.
Through OP’s Journey of Growth curriculum, participants developed confidence and resilience.
They built teamwork and gained emotional insight. This occurred in a setting few had ever experienced: the mountains.
What They Said
“That final stretch on day two? I pushed myself more than I ever have. It was a big realization—I’m stronger than I knew.” – Alayah
“Before this trip, I didn’t really talk to most of the people here—I didn’t know them like that. But being out here, I took the time to connect, and I realized I can be really cool to other people. I learned I’m better at connecting than I thought.” – Adryana
“Everyone had a job. We relied on each other. Without the group, we wouldn’t have made it as far as we did.” – Sara
“I think it would be good for me and my mental state to keep doing this. I’m coming back every year.” – Izzy
These teens learned to lead. They cooked over a camp stove. They faced views that made all the struggle worth it.
As a result, they walked away with more than skills. They walked away with identity.
“I realized I don’t just want to succeed on my own. I like completing things as a team, pushing each other, and reaching the finish line together.” – Sara
🏕️ For the Girls: A Flock in Motion
The girls’ expedition started with hesitation. Energy was unpredictable, moods shifted like mountain weather. But by day five, the group was moving as one.
They laughed during swims. They lifted each other up in evening meetings. The girls complimented each other’s strengths around the fire.
They supported each other in different ways. They connected through challenges and triumph.
Moments of awe at the view, at the water, at themselves turned into fuel.
“It was my first day doing something like this, and I was struggling. But Sara helped me shift my mindset. She brought the motivation and good vibes—honestly, I loved it.” – Adryana
Alayah, often self-contained, began seeking support and understanding when she was overwhelmed and how to take care of herself.
“I’m really grateful for Caitlin and Carol [OP instructors]. They cared about us, made sure we weren’t overdoing it, and helped keep us on track.” – Alayah
🥾 For the Boys: Brotherhood in the Backcountry
The boys brought energy from the get-go. From sunrise hikes to pancake flips, they supported one another and found joy in the challenge. Izzy summed it up best:
“I see you at the gym, but I feel connected on another level out here.”
Sir Robert spoke to connection.
“When everybody’s doing nothing, I think everybody just opens up and talks. Especially during s’more time.” – Sir Robert
They shared weight, literally and emotionally. The crew rallied when one member struggled.
Some discovered pride in cooking breakfast for the crew.
This crew brought the energy and positivity. They left connected and empowered.
🌍 Why This Matters: For More Than Just Hartford
This kind of growth doesn’t happen in a classroom.
It happens when youth are trusted with challenge. When they are surrounded by support.
When they are given the opportunity to be removed from the noise long enough to hear their own voice.
Thanks to our deep partnership with COBA, and the generosity of community supporters, these expeditions became more than programs. They became proof of what’s possible.
But this opportunity shouldn’t be unique.
We believe youth across Connecticut deserve access to transformative outdoor experiences like this.
We’re committed to expanding our reach. One town, one trail, one breakthrough at a time.
Want to learn more?
Book a discovery call to explore how we can partner.
Join us for an OP First Thursday to learn more about how to become involved!
Leave a Reply