What happens when you take teenagers out of their comfort zones, put down the phones, and give them the opportunity to discover just how capable they really are? In this episode of River City Podcast, Jess sits down with David Buenrostro, Adventure Programs Manager at Blue Sky Fund, and Lily, a participant turned guide, to explore how outdoor adventure is helping Richmond-area youth build confidence, resilience, leadership skills, and meaningful connections. From five-day backpacking trips through Grayson Highlands and summiting Virginia’s highest peak to paddling the James River, community service, and learning to work as a team, Blue Sky Fund creates experiences that challenge young people physically and mentally while giving them the space to grow. Lily shares firsthand how the program changed her relationship with the outdoors, helped her navigate difficult moments in her own life, and taught her that she could do hard things—and do them alongside others. David also shares how Blue Sky Fund is making these opportunities accessible to young people throughout the Richmond area, what it takes to safely operate these programs, and how families, volunteers, and donors can help support their mission. It’s a conversation about much more than hiking and camping. It’s about giving young people the confidence to use their voices, lead, connect with others, serve their communities, and carry those lessons with them long after they leave the trail. To learn more about Blue Sky Fund, visit them online at: https://blueskyfund.org/ Follow them on Social Media at: FB: www.facebook.com/BlueSkyFund IG: www.instagram.com/blueskyfund LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blue-sky-fund/ Thanks for listening to River City Podcast! A River City Consulting Production. To learn more about how your organization can be interviewed on the show, please visit River City Podcast online!
