No Trips for 2020, Accepting 2021 Applications
With the recent spike in COVID-19 cases in the United States, we have decided that there is no way we can confidently conduct trips while keeping clients safe. We have flip-flopped several times throughout the summer on being able to operate or not. Unfortunately, this is our final decision for the year 2020.
Now Accepting Rolling Admissions
We are excited to announce that Origin Expeditions is now accepting rolling admissions! Both clients and groups can submit applications at any time using our application page, and as funding becomes available to host trips, those who qualify will receive invites to attend. Each group or individual can choose to pay for their trip, have us set up a crowdfunding campaign for them, or apply for a full or partial scholarship.
Update on a Summer 2020 Program
We received a large donation from Founders Brewing Company, which helps us tremendously in reaching our goals this year. Combined with individual contributions, we'll be able to purchase gear to host up to seven individuals on our trips. This was our biggest goal in 2020 and a massive milestone for Origin. This gear provides the foundation we need to allocate future donations towards scholarships, making fundraising much more accessible and helping us serve our community more efficiently.
COVID-19 Update
In response to the ongoing outbreak of COVID-19, we have made several changes to our summer programs.
In Regards to Covid-19
In response to the current COVID-19 outbreak: We will continue to accept registration for all courses and workshops. Our policy remains to be that if for any reason an event is canceled, clients will receive a full refund.
Crowdfunding for Your Trip is Now Available
I’m very excited to announce that we have launched a service I’ve wanted to provide for clients since I first started Origin. As of today, we now offer crowdfunding assistance to registered clients! Now that everything is all set to go, I’d like to take a moment to share how this platform operates.
Summer 2020 Developments
As winter begins to wind down and summer (Petoskey stone-hunting season) approaches, it's time for an update on developments at Origin.
Origin Expeditions Inaugural Trip
The 5-day expedition to North Manitou Island was an incredible success! Though it was different from the 3-week long, multi-faceted youth program I had initially envisioned in the spring, it was what it needed to be: a wilderness experience that provided joy, learning, and inspiration to everyone involved. Everyone left the island hungry for more time in the outdoors and excited for future Origin trips!
Fundraising Campaign Launch
It is with great enthusiasm that I write this post! After half a year of very tedious work and immeasurable support from many different individuals, I am delighted to announce that we have begun our fundraising campaign. There are many moving parts here, but what I’d like to address is why and how we need your support at this time.