TreeHouse

     This TreeHouse isn’t a type of fort in a tree but a safe place where youth can go and get help.  "TreeHouse (an outreach of Family Hope Services, Inc.) is a Christian-based nonprofit organization whose purpose is to bring hope to hurting youth and their families leading to life transformation. TreeHouse provides a safe place for at-risk youth and their families to struggle and grow. Our approach combines long-term caring relationships with a year-round balanced program. TreeHouse serves over 1000 teens annually who are experiencing difficulties at home, in school, or in their communities."

    We are proud to have had not one, but two groups of  youth from TreeHouse paddle with us this past week.  We usually donate a canoe trip to be auctioned off at Family Hope Services Golf for Hope Fundraiser during the summer.  We outfit the group of 4 who has the highest bid on the trip and then the money is  used to support TreeHouse.  Last year I got to thinking that it would be really nice to get some of these youth up into the Boundary Waters so we not only gave a trip to be auctioned off but also donated two completely outfitted trips for the youth at TreeHouse to paddle and camp in the Boundary Waters.   

   A Boundary Waters trip is a great experience for anyone of any age, but especially for troubled youth.  It can be a challenging endeavor for some of these youth to paddle and portage in the wilderness.  The sense of pride and accomplishment felt by these youth after a canoe trip is amazing; they feel sure of themselves and it builds their self-esteem.  A canoe camping trip also provides the quiet time necessary for personal reflection and growth.   

  We are happy to have met these awesome youth and hopefully we made a difference in their lives.  They are a great group of kids who deserve opportunities and TreeHouse is making this possible for them.  If you would like to help out then we encourage you to contact TreeHouse or get involved with youth in your community.  Maybe you can organize a trip for troubled youth or purchase a trip to be donated so more youth like those from TreeHouse can experience the healing touch of the wilderness.