FALL 2026
The Elements Youth Outdoor Program connects youth ages 16 to 20 with opportunities and activities that tend to the mind, body & spirit. Through outdoor experiences, meetings & workshops, participants will:
Learn technical outdoor adventure skills
Experience the health benefits of spending time in nature
Engage in environmental advocacy and service learning
Discover college & career pathways in the natural resources sector
Skill building and knowledge areas will include the following topics and more:
Earth - Land Stewardship, Farm to Table Cooking, Forest Bathing
Water - River Kayaking, River Restoration, Salmon Health
Air - Bird Language, High Ropes Course, Rock Climbing
Fire - Prescribed Burning, Fire by Friction, Raku Pottery
Who can participate?
The program is open to 16 to 20yr olds who live in Butte County. No previous outdoor experience is necessary. However, participants need to be comfortable spending time outdoors in all types of weather, willing to try new things (even if they are hard), and want to meet and work together with other local youth with similar interests. Please describe any physical or medial needs in your application.
What is the time commitment?
This is a 4-month commitment (Sept to Dec, 2026). Participants will participate in one weekend outing and two evening meetings during each month of the program.
Weekend Outings:
Sunday, Sept 13 - Earth
Sunday, Oct. 11 - Water
Sunday, Nov. 8 - Air
Sat/Sun, Dec. 5 & 6 - Fire (overnight camping trip)
*Typically 10am to 5pm but times may vary
*Locations throughout Butte County
Bi-monthly planning & connection meetings:
1st and 3rd Tuesdays each month, 5:30 to 7:30pm
*Dinner provided
*Located at the Paradise Recreation & Parks District Terry Ashe Center in Paradise, CA.
Do I have to go on all the outings and attend all of the meetings?
Yes. The program components are designed to all fit together for an overall complete experience. We do not repeat activities. Each weekend outing is unique and the pre and post meetings are to prepare the group for each outing. That said, we know that life happens (sickness, family needs, etc.) and we will handle the situations with participants as they come up.
What will happen at the Meetings?
Bi-monthly meetings will include team building activities, hands on skill building, guest speakers from the community, advocacy topics, and planning for upcoming outings. Dinner will be provided.
Do I have to go on all the outings and attend all of the meetings?
Yes. The program components are designed to all fit together for a holistic experience. However, we know that life happens (sickness, family needs, etc.) and we will handle needs as they come up.
Who are the leaders of this program?
Kelly Munson has been guiding youth through outdoor & experiential education programs for 28 years. She led the Student Life Department, taught Leadership and Civic Engagement, and mentored students at Butte College. She has lived in Paradise and Chico and is also a mother and an artist.
Connor Finnigan is a Recreation Coordinator that leads youth outdoor education field trips, adaptive and inclusive recreation experiences, and events for PRPD. He works closely with neurodiverse participants and incorporates American Sign Language into his approach. He has lived in Chico, Paradise, and Magalia and is also a touring musician.
On every outing and at every meeting, guest local outdoor educators, natural resources professionals, and community leaders will teach skills and share knowledge of ecological issues and related career paths.
What is the program cost?
$350 for the full program includes guides, outings, transportation, some meals, and equipment. After you are accepted, you can pay in full or make payments over time on the PRPD website. If you need a scholarship, please say so on your application and we will contact you with details. *no one will be turned away for lack of funds.
Will I have to buy gear or special clothing/footwear for any excursions?
We aim to go on outings that do not require specialized clothing or gear. We also have a closet with outdoor clothing that is available to borrow. Most excursions will not require any technical gear or special clothing/footwear. For trips such as kayaking, rock climbing or any excursion that requires additional items, the YAC will provide or rent the needed gear. For overnight camping, we will provide tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and chairs. Most food is provided as well.
Do you have social media accounts with pictures of the past programs?
Yes, you can find us at:
Instagram @elementsyac or Facebook @ Elements Youth Advisory Committee
Who can I talk to about the program and ask questions?
You can call/text or email the program coordinator, Kelly Munson, at 207-650-2498 or munlark4@gmail.com. Kelly works out in the field and also at the Paradise Recreation & Parks District office.
How do I apply?
Interested participants should fill out an application. The deadline to register for the Fall 2026 program is September 8th, 2026. We will send applicants an email confirmation if there is still space in the program and with follow up details when their registration is confirmed.
