A Life Changing Experience
In Some of the Most Beautiful Places in the World
“I know the sights I saw and the places we visited will all merge in my head, but what will stay the same is the feeling of acceptance and belonging.”
“The skills I have been able to learn in the BOLD/GOLD Program has changed my life outside of the Y. It has made me look at things differently. I have learned more about responsibility and leadership.”
“BOLD & GOLD teaches you to see what is important in life, and what you really need to be happy. It also gives you a look at amazing places that you might not have seen.”
“This program helped me step out of my comfort zone and helped me believe in myself.”
What?
Boys and Girls Outdoor Leadership Development (BOLD & GOLD) is a wilderness-based leadership development program for diverse teens. We empower teens, teach leadership and backpacking skills on 5 to 10-day backpacking trips throughout some of most beautiful places in the world.
Learn more about the program and sign your teen up for a trip today!
Where?
We are based at the Point Bonita YMCA in the Marin Headlands and run trips in some of the most beautiful places throughout California including Point Reyes, Yosemite, the Desolation Wilderness, and Henry Coe State Park.
When?
Our trips primarily run in the summer months: June-August. If you have a group that wants to go another time, email us!
Who?
BOLD & GOLD primarily serves diverse teens, ages 11-17. We have one trip this summer for young adults as well, ages 18-24. We have all-boys trips (BOLD), all-girls trips (GOLD), and All Gender trips as well.
We have scholarship awards available for students who could not otherwise afford the opportunity. Know a teen who would make a strong candidate? Contact us!
Why?
Here's just a few reasons...
- We connect teens to nature and empower them to be better stewards of the planet
- We teach leadership skills they can bring back to their communities
- We foster relationships among teens from various backgrounds
- We break down gender stereotypes and provide boys and girls with positive role models
- We impart courage, confidence, community awareness, emotional intelligence, and wonder
- Because it’s fun!
Make a Difference
$1,000 - 2 youth on a wilderness trip of a lifetime
$500 - Week trip for 1 to learn to love the outdoors
$250 - A tent to keep the youth dry and protected from the elements
$100 - Hiking boots for a group of 5 for a week trip
$50 - GORP (trail mix) for a group of 10 for a week
$25 - S'mores and a campfire for a group