A Treatment Approach that is Inspiring and Empowering
Fundamental to realizing our school's mission, is the instruction of outdoor education or experiential learning. Experiential learning through outdoor recreation is highly effective in assisting children, teens and adults to develop a greater sense of self; acquire leadership experience; enhance social development and teamwork skills; increase confidence and self worth; develop greater critical thinking and problem solving skills; and creating an affinity for health and wellness. Youth who attend our therapeutic school consistently demonstrate a higher level of maturity that is not seen in most other teenagers. Turning Winds Academic Institute is located in perhaps one of the most pristine and serene environments that exist amongst therapeutic boarding schools. We value the environment in which we reside in and are in awe at the vistas seen from mountain tops; the network of hiking trails; the multitude of alpine lakes, rivers and streams and the great variety of wildlife that we co-exist with.
Common outdoor activities for our students include: hiking, mountain biking, backpacking and various water activities. A favorite hiking destination for our student's is Fish Lakes. Yesterday a group of youth hiked into Fish Lakes which gently meander's along a mountain-side which includes scenery of old growth trees, thimbleberry bushes, rock slides, creek crossings, a series of beaver ponds and a beautiful waterfall. The roundtrip hike is about 8 miles in duration and would be rated easy to moderate.As we hiked along the trail, it was inspiring to listen to various conversations within the group detailing personal experiences of prior challenges and triumph which has resulted since arriving at TWAI. One girl noted, "I am truly grateful for this privilege... most kids will never have this opportunity." The same girl went on to describe the college ambitions she has for when she graduates from our school. Others talked about the good times in their lives and a common ring heard from a number of girls was how they had grown to love and appreciate their families. Girls were making bets on whose brother will call and talk with them first. It was truly a blessing to experience such insight into the lives of the youth who were along for this hike.
Once we arrived at Fish Lakes, we had dinner which consisted of hoagie sandwiches, all natural Capri Sun's, SunChips and fruit snacks. We also attempted to catch some of the fish which were jumping in the lake all around us, but they would not bite on the spinners which we had. Without any prompting, one of the girls volunteered to carry the group backpack all the way back to the trailhead. It is truly amazing to witness so many acts of responsibility, maturity and service from students as they participate in our outdoor activities. We arrived back at the trailhead before nightfall. The student's expressed gratitude for the time which was taken to sponsor such a wonderful activity and we departed to the school with a group looking forward to a good night's rest. 
