"We cannot push to change people's opinions. All we can do is try to teach them about our own, and maybe reach an understanding."
Elise Hyde
Testimonials
TAP (Therapeutic Adventure Program)
Today was really fun and cool. The best part was climbing the rope. I learned that all of us are a community. I felt better when we were all helping each other. I hope all of us will change from this experience.
— 10-year-old participant from a local elementary school
If I can accomplish this, I can accomplish things in my life, and it's better to go up in the mountains rather than stay around the house and be bored.
NM GSA Network'grrls in front' has been a beautifully empowering experience, which has assisted greatly in my quest to find a community that embraces all people.
You...have given me so many opportunities to learn and to feel good about myself; you've really made a difference in my life!
Adventure Out
The whole experience made me feel accepted, comfortable, confident, and human, a human of equal capacity as every other.
The trip gave me a sense of belonging to the community. My issues with the GLBT community were discussed and validated. It promoted self-awareness and made me more comfortable with my own sexuality.
— 26 year-old participant
The Chama River trip has given me a lot of insight to know and learn more about HIV positive men, including my partner. The experience helped me to love myself more as a person and gave me more strength to take care of myself, as well as my partner. Gracias por todo.
— 34 year-old participant
During the Chama River trip I felt an incredible sense of unity with a group of people I had known only 3 days. I felt and shared in another's pain and success. This intimacy level has made a great impact on my sense of confidence. I truly felt that I was taking a part in another's healing, which has contributed to my own healing. I learned how to open more and share myself with others. I learned very quickly that stretching my perspective was necessary to experiencing the many benefits of this time together. Thank you so very much!
— 56 year-old participant