Field Notes
Everything we do is inspired by the amazing community around us - that’s why we love keeping you in the loop. From big milestones and exciting developments to meaningful moments and what’s coming next, we’re excited to share the latest chapter of our journey. Check out what we’ve been up to!
Power To Be x BC Parks Foundation: A Partnership Rooted in Inclusion and Connection
Our partnership with the BC Parks Foundation is a full-circle story of collaboration, shared values, and a mutual commitment to making parks more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Since 2020, we’ve had the privilege of working alongside their team to co-create meaningful experiences and tools that support both of our organizational visions.
Cultivating Futures: Celebrating Our Third Landscaping and Restoration Training Cohort!
We’re proud to share that the third cohort of Power To Be’s Landscaping and Restoration Training program celebrated their graduation at the end of July! Over the course of 12 weeks, participants gained valuable skills and knowledge to support their future paths - whether pursuing careers in landscaping and restoration or continuing to nurture their passion for nature in other meaningful ways.
Power To Be Receives Federal Support for Pathways for Seniors Program
Power To Be is thrilled to share that we’ve received funding from the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program to launch our new initiative: Pathways for Seniors. This federal grants and contributions program supports projects that are led or inspired by seniors who are making a difference in the lives of others in their communities.
Power To Be's Quarterly Impact Report - Q2 2025
Hi there, my name is Robin and I am the new Head of Programs at Power To Be. While new to this role, I have been a community partner for over seven years, helping Power To Be introduce newcomer youth and their families to the outdoors. I’m so excited to join the team and continue lowering barriers and lifting diverse leaders.
Together on the Trail: The Power of People and Possibility
On June 15th, under a bright blue sky at Stoney Hill Regional Park, something quietly powerful unfolded. It was our first offsite TrailRider program since the pandemic – venturing beyond our local parks and into the wild beauty just south of Maple Bay. The day was special for many reasons: it was Father’s Day, the weather was perfect, and a couple joined us for a hike that would leave a lasting impression on everyone involved.
Spring Training: Our Program Staff Learned, Explored, and Connected
Our Spring Training this year took us from Prospect Lake to Sidney Island. Our goal was to bring our program team together to connect, have fun, sharpen our skills and enjoy a breath of fresh air.
Power To Be's Quarterly Impact Report - Q1 2025
Hi there, I’m Rahul, and I've been on Power To Be’s board for nearly four years, with three of those years spent as Board Chair. As we begin a new year and the start of many more adventures together, I’d like to share some of what Power To Be has been up to for the past few months.
Snowshoeing Outside the Comfort Zone: A Trip to Mount Washington
Over the weekend of January 31st, our Wilderness School Cohorts 16 and 17 embarked on a three-day-long snowy adventure to Mount Washington. Their bags were filled with warm clothes, sleeping bags, cooking gear, safety equipment, and more, while their minds and hearts were filled with excitement for what lay ahead.
Staff Spotlight: Kallie
Our Environmental Stewardship and Education Lead, Kallie, started off at Power To Be as a volunteer six years ago, when she attended IA programs and supported participants on kayaking and hiking programs. After years as a volunteer, she started a full-time role at Power To Be and helped kick off the Landscaping and Restoration Training program.
Power To Be's Quarterly Impact Report - Q4 2024
Hi! We’re Oren and Syd, and we bring you the stories about the transformative work Power To Be does every day. As we look back on 2024, we're inspired by the incredible impact our programs had in the lives of our participants.
Flying Together: Helijet's Commitment to Community and Belonging
As one year comes to an end and another is soon to begin, we’re looking back on 2024 with gratitude as we think about all the incredible people and organizations that made this past year possible. One of these organizations is Helijet, whose ongoing support allows us to continue delivering our life-changing programs.
The Impact of Paddleboards on Power To Be's Programs: A Reflection by Paul
At Power To Be, we are constantly striving to enhance our programs and provide meaningful experiences for our participants. One of the most significant additions to our toolkit has been the paddleboards, generously funded by the Mr. and Mrs. P.A. Woodward’s Foundation. These paddleboards have not only expanded our program offerings but have also had a profound impact on our community.
Bid for Adventure: Power To Be’s 2024 Silent Auction is LIVE!
Our 2024 Silent Auction is LIVE! From November 13th until November 21st, at 7pm PST, you have a chance to place the winning bid on more than 90 incredible packages! From extraordinary experiences to unique items, we hope our auction will inspire adventure, connection, and joy.
Power To Be's Quarterly Impact Report - Q3 2024
Hello! My name is Mike Kucherawy and I’ve been involved with Power To Be for over 15 years. It’s amazing to think back and admire how far Power To Be has come, and how many families have been enriched by this great team over the years. I love how the vision continues to grow over time, to include bigger goals and have a farther reach in terms of connection and support. I became a monthly donor because I know what an important part of our community Power To Be is, and I hope they are still thriving for generations to come.
Adaptive Foundations Program: Shaking up Old Narratives
The outdoor sector has always attracted incredible people. Folks who love and care about nature, those who seek adventure and are driven to push their comfort zones, and others who thrive on teaching and witnessing people’s skill and confidence grow. However, there are significant representation gaps in who shows up to work in the outdoor sector. How do people with different abilities, needs, and backgrounds see themselves in this incredible sector?
What Comes Next: 10 Years with Power To Be
As I look back at my 10 years with Power To Be – as a participant, then volunteer, and now practicum student – I never would have known how inspirational Power To Be would become in my life journey. After graduating from Wilderness School at Power To Be in 2016, I pursued paramedic school and firefighter training, and am now entering my final year of my Bachelor of Social Work program. None of this would have been possible without the leadership practice and skill development I learned at Power To Be.
Power To Be's Quarterly Impact Report - Q2 2024
Hi there! My name is Josée, and I’ve been volunteering with Power To Be for 21 years. What has kept me here is that through all the growth, transition, and change, Power To Be has been able to stay true to its mission and vision - making the outdoors accessible to everyone, and building community.
I’m pleased to see that over the last few months Power To Be has continued to thrive, with Power To Summit being so successful. I had a team in this community-building event, and it was a lot of fun nurturing my love for hiking, the outdoors, and for sharing both with others.
I look forward to Power To Be’s next endeavours and adventures, and want to thank you so much for your support - you’re making a difference!
Power To Be's Quarterly Impact Report - Q1 2024
As we begin our 26th year here at Power To Be, we are so happy to report some big progress with our program development and our brand-new certification as a Living Wage Employer. In the past few months, we have witnessed the lasting impact of hosting 23 environmental programs with many community partners as we look into the future together. We can’t wait for the adventures ahead - thank you for supporting our journey!
Celebrating Collaboration: Power To Be Reflects on BCBC Event
We recently had the opportunity to be part of a remarkable event hosted by the Business Council of British Columbia (BCBC). The event, titled “Strong Economy, Strong Community,” brought together businesses and charitable organizations in a sold-out engagement on April 2nd, 2024.
Sunshine, Watercolour, and Sam the Horse: A Weekend at Cold Water Ranch
One rainy day in November, an intrepid crew of Vancouver IA participants and staff set out on an overnight journey to Cold Water Ranch near Merritt, BC. The drive was slow but almost as soon as we turned off the highway towards our destination, the clouds broke, the sun peeked through, and we were greeted with beautiful blue skies.
Want to read more? Browse our blog archive to explore the adventures, achievements, and people that have shaped our story over time.