I had the opportunity to meet with Take a Hike Foundation and discover more about their mental health initiatives for youth. The Take a Hike Foundation, established in British Columbia in 2000, aims to support vulnerable youth by providing alternative education focused on mental health and emotional well-being.

This program offers a flexible learning environment that allows students to progress at their own pace while taking the courses necessary to graduate high school. Youth spend four days a week in the classroom and one day outdoors, learning about nature and applying their knowledge to real-life situations. The program includes full-day field trips and multi-day wilderness excursions, enabling participants to disconnect from technology and substance use, and develop essential life skills. The supportive community surrounding the program helps youth feel a sense of belonging and support.

Each class features counseling services provided by a registered full-time clinical counselor, offering vital mental health support to students. Take a Hike stands out as one of the few educational and outdoor programs in British Columbia that seamlessly integrates mental health services into everyday classroom settings. The program ensures a safe, inclusive, and predictable environment, fostering a sense of family and support for vulnerable youth. Currently, the program operates in five different school districts in British Columbia and continues to expand.