TREK

TREK: Empowering Independence and Confidence

What is TREK?

Teachable Moments • Reverse Inclusion • Education • Kinship 

TREK is a transformative program that empowers neurodivergent youth to develop the skills needed to confidently navigate their community and achieve greater independence. Through partnerships with peer mentors and executive functioning coaches, participants engage in real-world education focused on social interaction, emotional regulation, cognitive flexibility, and self-empowerment.

With hands-on experiences and community-based activities, teens gain practical skills and the confidence to manage daily tasks, fostering independence and resilience. TREK creates a supportive environment where participants and their peer mentors grow together, building meaningful relationships and making positive impacts in each other’s lives.

Local businesses, where TREK groups patron, play a vital role by welcoming youth participants, actively contributing to an inclusive community, and gaining valuable insights into supporting individuals of all abilities while demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity.

This unique summer program weaves together adventure, education, and collaboration to empower teens, mentors, and community partners in building a more inclusive and understanding tomorrow.

Summer
Adventurers

In order to be involved in the community, neurodiverse youth need skills to be able to navigate it successfully. Through the TREK program they will practice real-world education on social reciprocity, skills for emotional regulation, cognitive flexibility and building self-empowerment, all while learning to navigate their community.

Summer
Peer Mentors

This is a great opportunity for high school students to come along side their peers in a leadership capacity while earning volunteer hours.

Wayfinder

A Leadership Bridge
for Aspiring Peer Mentors
A TREK Extension Program

For students who have completed at least one season as a TREK Adventurer and are showing signs of readiness for more responsibility—but aren't quite ready for full Peer Mentor status—we’re excited to introduce Wayfinder.

Community
Partners

As a community partner, you’ll be bridging the gap between community members and neuro-diverse youth. Our intention is that this program will create a wave of a new “reverse inclusion” standard in the community through community partners.

TREK 2026

TREK 2026 kicks off June 29! Each TREK is one week, Monday-Thursday, from 11am-3pm. Cost per week is $320. In order to provide the best supports for youth in the program, weekly enrollment eligibility will take place after intake for Adventurers and Mentors has been completed. Adventurers will start their week by setting SMART goals with their facilitator and mentor from one of the five categories below. Shown are examples of goals that could fall into them. 

1. Self Empowerment

Self-Esteem & Confidence: Recognize strengths, practice self-compassion, and challenge negative self-talk. Build confidence through small achievements and stepping outside your comfort zone.

Behavior & Goal Adjustment: Focus on your goals while staying flexible in your approach. Track progress and adjust as needed to overcome challenges.

2. Safety Awareness & Self-Advocacy

Online & Community Safety: Protect personal info online and stay alert in your environment. Trust your instincts and follow safety guidelines.

Setting Boundaries: Clearly communicate your needs and learn to say no respectfully to maintain healthy relationships.

3. Interpersonal Effectiveness & Social Communication

Listening Skills: Practice active listening by being present, not interrupting, and asking clarifying questions.

Balancing Goals & Desires: Prioritize long-term goals over short-term wants. Use tools like lists to stay focused on what truly matters.

4. Coping Strategies for Life Challenges

Flexibility with Change: Embrace unexpected changes by focusing on what you can control and viewing challenges as growth opportunities.

Adapting to New People: Communicate openly and set clear expectations when adjusting to a new caregiver, roommate, or family member.

5. Learning New Skills

Ordering Food & Shopping: Practice making decisions confidently, ask for recommendations when unsure, and stick to a shopping list. Learn to compare prices and calculate costs.

Paying Bills & Managing Money: Organize bills, set reminders, and use tools like online banking to track expenses. Learn budgeting, saving, and credit basics.

The TREK program is made possible in part by the generosity of donors and grants from the following sources: