Our philosophy
At Crystalaire Adventures, we believe in the power of connection and the importance of inclusive, collaborative communities.
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Our unique philosophy and programming model emphasizes exploration and experiential learning while helping participants strengthen their connection to self, others, and the natural world..
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5 core principles
We're committed to creating safe and meaningful experiences for all participants; we're guided by 5 core principles.
1 / Collaboration
We utilize a collaborative programming model that empowers participants to co-create their own experience. This model fosters strong communication skills, decision-making skills, and leadership skills while giving participants agency and independence.
2 / Non-Competitive Culture
Our culture prioritizes encouragement and inclusion over competition. We utilize language and leadership practices that create supportive spaces for participants to try new things and take healthy social and physical risks free from judgement and the fear of "failure."
3 / Unplugged Connection
We are an "unplugged community," meaning our trips and expeditions are screen-free. We believe that disconnecting from the electronic world helps us reconnect with ourselves and with others in an authentic way.
Note: our staff is always equipped with a phone and a GPS device for safety purposes and emergency use.
4 / Free Time
We believe that unstructured time creates invaluable opportunities for creativity, communication, and connection. Participants have free time throughout each day to relax and reflect--alone or with others.
5 / Playfulness
Our culture is intentionally playful. We view play as a form of self-expression and create spaces in which participants can explore their creativity and joy.
Collaborative program design
& consensus decision making
Our approach to outdoor adventure is different than most--our trips and expeditions are designed and led by participants through a process we call "consensus decision making." No two Crystalaire Adventures trips are ever alike; each is as unique as the participants themselves!
With the support and guidance of an experienced wilderness guide, participants co-plan and co-lead every aspect of their trip--from gear distribution and trail navigation to itinerary changes and meal preparation. These real-life decisions require strong teamwork and communication, fostering a community of inclusion and collaboration.
This model is grounded in the following beliefs:
Everyone is welcome
The outdoors are for everyone. Our programs are gender-inclusive and open to anyone with a thirst for adventure and a desire to learn.
We respect the land
Nature isn't something to be conquered; it is something to experience. We practice ethical land use and honor those who's land we enjoy and leave it as we found it.
Everyone is a leader
Leadership comes in many forms and all are necessary for a healthy community. We give everyone the chance to lead while remaining true to who they are.
We prioritize safety
Adventure comes with inherent risk, so we assess each hazard we encounter and always prioritize the physical and emotional safety of our group.
Everyone contributes
Collaboration is key. Our group succeeds when each individual participant feels heard and valued for their unique ideas, perspectives, and skills.
We create fun
Life in the outdoors can be difficult, so we always find a reason to laugh and play--no matter how daunting the challenge or mundane the task.
