Pilot 2-day Intro Program
I am thrilled to announce that we had a successful launch of our two-day introduction to backpacking program last weekend. We partnered with Kingsley High School to host 14 of their students for two days along 3.6 miles of the North Country Trail. Our mission for this program was to introduce teens with little or no exposure to the backcountry and inspire them to attend future programs.
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.
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.
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.
Moving Forward
I’m writing this post to communicate my vision for Origin Expeditions effectively. While I’m not planning on Origin ever becoming as big as a program like NOLS or Outward Bound, I do intend to see it constantly evolve and adapt. As I mentioned in the previous post, I am excited to see a community form around this project, one in which each member has a role to play. Whether they be a student, guide, parent, donor, or friend, I am interested to hear any feedback folks might have to facilitate the progression of this program—leave a comment if you feel inclined.
The Creation of Origin
My name is Joseph Napolitan and I am the founder of what I now call Origin Expeditions. My intention for the blog is to develop a platform with which others and myself can communicate developments within the organization, explore relevant topics and hold discussions amongst members of the community. With this particular post, I intend to share a little bit about my story and how my idea for this program came to be.