Story by Elly Crawford
As I look back at my 10 years with Power To Be – as a participant, then volunteer, and now practicum student – I never would have known how inspirational Power To Be would become in my life journey. After graduating from Wilderness School at Power To Be in 2016, I pursued paramedic school and firefighter training, and am now entering my final year of my Bachelor of Social Work program. None of this would have been possible without the leadership practice and skill development I learned at Power To Be.
I began my story with Power To Be at 13 years old as a neighbour of now-Co-CEO Jason Cole, who encouraged me to apply to become a participant in Power To Be’s Wilderness School. Wilderness School is a two-year program for youth among some of the most beautiful areas on Vancouver Island. This program is designed for young people who are feeling lonely, not connecting with school and social support systems, and lacking opportunities to get to the outdoors. During those trips, participants build positive and supportive relationships, learn about self-regulation and self-care, and enjoy backcountry camping, kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, and surfing while participating in environmental stewardship and education through their journey in the program.
From our very first Wilderness School camping trip, I was encouraged to develop my own leadership style, and I discovered the value of leading by example. This style of inclusive leadership has served me well into adulthood and into my career. With Power To Be, I also learned about facing challenges and how people thrive when they experience new things together in a supportive environment.
As I mentioned above, after graduating from Wilderness School, I pursued paramedic school, firefighter training [and continue to serve as a firefighter to this day], and am now entering my final year of my Bachelor of Social Work program. During my BSW program, I spent 4 months working at Power to Be as a practicum student. During my practicum, I went through Field Leader training, extensive leadership training, adaptive recreation training, and planning education. I can say truthfully that I would not be in this position if it were not for the inspiration and support I received from my 10 years with Power To Be.
One of my most pivotal memories with Power To Be was visiting Cape Beale in Bamfield during my practicum as a leader, working 1:1 with a participant. I took a leadership role in planning the trip as part of my practicum. This 5-day-long trip took place on a rugged and remote trail. The opportunity to explore white sandy beaches and bright blue water is something our participants described as once-in-a-lifetime. A main learning outcome from the trip was thriving in challenges – we packed backpacks, carried heavy weight, and navigated challenging trails – all in a supportive environment. The group was constantly talking about the ways that these lessons inspired them, and what comes next for them.
What comes next for me could be almost anything, but I know it will be in leadership, contributing to my community. Power To Be absolutely inspired my journey and access to the kinds of opportunities that exist. I learned how to continue to push myself into the growth zone. Unless you experience it, it’s hard to describe how good programs like this are. It’s incredible to think about the opportunities that exist with Power To Be.
To those considering getting involved, I will say that when you donate or volunteer with Power To Be, you give life-changing experiences to people: real people, in our very communities, who may not otherwise be able to access the kind of impact that I have experienced myself. Power To Be has played a major role in my life for many years and will for the rest of my life.