Health without bounds: CrossCurrents Spring 2004

CrossCurrents

Since 1983, a Toronto-based program called Boundless Adventures has been using exercise and outdoor adventure to build life and social skills for people with mental illness, acquired brain injuries, developmental disabilities and other special needs. Working in partnership with Ontario-based community agencies, the program aims to prevent crime, promote alternatives to substance use and strengthen the bonds of families and communities ravaged by poverty, violence and mental illness.

The activities are centred around an Ottawa Valley wilderness facility and include white-water rafting, climbing, ropes courses, eco-challenges and team building workshops. Fees are subsidized by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care for participating groups of up to 12 people from recognized mental health and long-term care agencies.

Participants report leaving the programs with increased self-esteem, hope and optimism. "My confidence all of a sudden had completely turned around," writes one participant in the company's annual report. "I started to think that I was able to do things I only dreamed about."

 

• Print