Cispus Forever
Starts With You
We have served hundreds of thousands
since 1956.
Cispus, with Association of Washington Student Leaders, collaborating within a place, making change, and fulfilling our mission.
It all begins with a trip up to the forest. Maybe it was outdoor school in elementary, a club retreat, attending summer leadership camp, or even several of the above. Maybe you have served on staff or just benefitted from a few nights in the peaceful Gifford-Pinchot Forest. Whatever it is, the way you tell us your story is important.
Cispus Learning Center, nestled in the beautiful landscape of Washington state, has been instrumental in fostering positive change in students and leaving a lasting impact on their lives. Here's how:
1. **Experiential Learning:** Cispus Learning Center offers hands-on, outdoor educational experiences that go beyond traditional classroom settings. Through activities like hiking, team building, and environmental education, students develop a deeper connection with nature and learn valuable life skills such as leadership, resilience, and problem-solving.
2. **Personal Growth:** Many students who attend Cispus find themselves stepping out of their comfort zones and challenging themselves in new ways. Whether it's conquering a fear of heights on a high ropes course or overcoming obstacles during a group challenge, students often emerge from their experiences at Cispus with increased confidence and self-esteem.
3. **Community Building:** The supportive and inclusive environment at Cispus fosters strong bonds among students and staff. Friendships formed at Cispus often extend beyond the program, providing students with a sense of belonging and support even after they return to their regular schools.
4. **Environmental Stewardship:** Through its focus on environmental education and sustainability, Cispus instills in students a sense of responsibility for the world around them. By learning about the local ecosystem and participating in conservation projects, students develop a greater appreciation for nature and a commitment to preserving it for future generations.
5. **Academic Engagement:** For many students, the hands-on and experiential approach to learning at Cispus sparks a newfound interest in academics. By connecting classroom concepts to real-world experiences, students often return to their schools with a renewed enthusiasm for learning and a deeper understanding of the material.
6. **Positive Role Models:** The staff at Cispus serve as positive role models for students, providing guidance, support, and encouragement throughout their time at the center. By witnessing the dedication and passion of the staff members, students are inspired to set goals for themselves and strive for success in all areas of their lives.
Overall, Cispus Learning Center has made a significant difference in the lives of countless students by providing them with transformative experiences that foster personal growth, community building, environmental stewardship, academic engagement, and positive role modeling.
And here is our challenge to you: Tag 5 friends that went to camp with you! #CispusForever…
Follow our journey.
Cispus Outdoor School
The experience of camp, the physical act of being in person with others in the outdoors. That when you walk together between outdoor sessions, laugh together, work through uncomfortable situations, share a family style meal, those moments make lasting memories. The tangible happenings that made a child wonder what will they do for themselves and how will they act toward others tomorrow?
Association of Washington Student Leaders
AWSL believes that all students and adults have the ability to lead in their school. In order to promote social and academic experiences for all, our focus provides opportunities, support and resources to:
Examine, interrupt, and address patterns of historic and current oppression.
Engage, connect, and collaborate with others.
Create safe schools where all are valued.
Feel successful in school and life.
By The Numbers
Many have found hope and promise of a brighter future. The realization for a young child to understand their responsibility, civility, stewardship, respect for oneself and others, and that we share a common purpose to cheer each individual forward. Learn how many experiences and moments were created over the years.
"I've noticed over my 25 years working at Cispus a common refrain. Away from the hustle and bustle of their lives surrounded by green forests, living in community, and entirely focused on the purpose. I often hear a version of this statement: "I'm the best version of myself at camp." Without the ability to explore who we are in a supportive space that challenges us to grow, we never learn the possibilities of our full potential.”
— Joe Fenbert