Standing outside the chicken enclosure, a student froze. “I don’t want to go in—I’m afraid,” he admitted. An adult gently replied, “We’re here to build relationships with the chickens.” Slowly, the student reached out, grabbed the adult’s hand, and stepped inside.

After an April girls’ overnight trip in New Hampshire, Allison shed her shyness while on a nighttime owl prowl. Later she shared, “Aprendí a no tener miedo al estar lejos de casa! (I learned not to be scared when I’m far away from home).”

These connections matter. Whether they’re helping us navigate school systems, joining us on outings, or reeling in the biggest catch on a fishing trip, our liaisons are a vital part of the Elevate Youth community.

However, when we focus on the power of possibility, we change these narratives to stories of growth, resilience, and togetherness.  

The main event of the evening was the cornhole tournament, which was sponsored by MassBio, Cartesian Inc, Atomic Coffee, Discovery Life Sciences, and Titus Wealth Partners of the Rockefeller Global Family. 18 teams faced off in a fierce, but friendly, competition facilitated by Boston Cornhole. Teams such as the Beanbag Bandits, the Corn Fritters and the Caffeine Crusaders played two games each, with the top winners moving on to a single elimination round. 

Massachusetts is working to close the outdoor recreation diversity gap, expanding access to nature for under-represented communities. The Bay State Banner highlights Elevate Youth’s role in connecting young people to outdoor experiences and the broader health and conservation benefits of inclusive recreation.

Former board member, Chaya Harris, steps into the Executive Director role to help Elevate Youth keep soaring to new heights. 

Peabody-based Atomic Coffee Roasters is partnering with Elevate Youth by donating $2 from each sale of their new “Loud Pow” blend to support the nonprofit’s youth-outdoor programs.

Here at Elevate Youth - we tend to always focus on the positive.  So yes, there is a problem and we are at a crux point but the great news is that we have a chance to make a difference and effect change

“I am excited to announce that Elevate Youth is the first nonprofit organization in Massachusetts that has achieved carbon neutrality.  In an age when climate change is at the forefront of global concerns, we need to see organizations stepping up to make a positive impact.”

Matt and Grace Grooms are walking roughly 3,000 miles from Maine to Key West to raise funds for underserved youth. As they trek the East Coast Greenway, their goal is to help support outdoor access and empowerment through Elevate Youth.

We are grateful for the support you have provided this year to ensure more young people have the opportunity to engage & thrive in nature. This year, Elevate Youth offered an array of opportunities for our youth to continue building on their passion for the outdoors.