Who can be a part of wels?
The WELS Program is open to any 7th & 8th grade youth in Fayette County, Pennsylvania. We believe that all youth are "at-risk". All young people are going to be confronted with making difficult decisions concerning using alcohol and/or drugs. All youth will face pressures to engage in sexual activities and other risky behaviors with peers. The WELS Program seeks to provide leadership skills to young people to help them navigate the difficult choices they will have to make as they grow up. Typically, our participants come from across the social and economic spectrum. We have kids from high-functioning families, from families in conflict or crisis, and everywhere in-between. We have participants from financially secure families, from families facing economic hardships, and everywhere in-between. in short, The WELS Program is for your child!
What equipment do I need?
We strive to make the WELS Program as accessible as possible for all youth. All outdoor gear (kayaks, bikes, etc.) as well as safety gear (wetsuits, life jackets, helmets, etc.), are provided. We will suggest particular clothes to wear for certain activities based on the weather forecast such as "quick-drying"/non-cotton items or a raincoat, and yet we do have a limited amount of high-quality, donated clothing to loan out as needed. We seek to ensure that access to appropriate clothing is not a barrier to participating in the program.
How much does it cost?
WELS is completely free to all applicants accepted into the program. The WELS Program is financially accessible to all interested youth and families.
It costs $500.00 to send one participant through a 6-week session of WELS. We are funded by grants and by private donors. If you, or someone you know, have benefited from this program, and you are able to make a donation, we certainly appreciate it! Every dollar goes towards developing future leaders and outdoor enthusiasts! Go to our Donation Page to invest in the next generation of WELS!
What activities will we be doing?
The Sunday adventure programming is dictated by weather and river levels. We select an activity that is appropriate and safe for the local conditions on that day. Our activitiy options include: whitewater rafting, kayaking, biking, rock climbing, caving, and hiking. All groups will participate in a community service project during their session.
Is it dangerous?
Outdoor activities such as rafting, rock climbing, biking, hiking, and caving involve risk. The WELS Program makes every effort to limit the risks through orienting participants to the activity and safety protocols, as well as using highly-trained guides, safe equipment, and best practices. However, parents/guardians/youth must understand that participation in such activities involves the possibility, however minimal, of minor injury, serious injury or death.