Case Studies
How strong ideas take shape in real-world conditions
Joyride
Need
Build lasting understanding of social justice topics; genuine connection to community partners
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Shift
From traditional mission trip model → go out to learn from experts, return to engage locally ​
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Constraints
breaking with tradition · complex logistics
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Timeline
Designed and launched in 5.5 months​
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Outcome
Strong student buy-in · continued engagement at home · lasting partnerships · repeatable model
Summer Adventure
Need
Replace high-risk, outsourced camp with a safe, high-quality, affordable local program
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Shift
From passive hosting → fully designed, in-house program​
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Constraints
Limited budget · high cost of living for staff ·
no vehicles or built-in amenities
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Timeline
Piloted first summer → full 9-week program launched the following season
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Outcome
Most affordable day camp in Park City · strong family demand · A+ staff team
Counselor in Training Model
Need
Retain middle school students aging out and losing interest
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Shift
From participant → contributor (CIT model)
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Constraints
Limited budget · competing priorities
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Timeline
Built and implemented as pilot in 3 months
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Outcome
Strong retention, ownership, buy-in, first real work experience
Confirmation Weekend
Need
Values-aligned curriculum for middle and high school students in a progressive faith community
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Shift
From traditional instruction → curricula focused on curiosity, openness and connection
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Constraints
Highly scheduled students with little free time · spectrum of perspective on faith/religion
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Timeline
Built and implemented in 2 months
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Outcome
High trust built with participants · safe space to think deeply · meaningful exposure to story and tradition
Covid Redesign
Need
Redesign entire outdoor education curriculum when existing program model became unworkable under Covid restrictions​
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Shift
From field trip based model → multi-track, on-campus + local hybrid program
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Constraints
40-student cohort · limited off-campus access · gear quarantine protocols · safety requirements
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Timeline
Redesigned over one summer · implemented for fall semester
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Outcome
Expanded offerings · weekly off-campus access for all students · new on-campus campground with individual shelters
9th Grade Orientation
Need
Maintain a meaningful outdoor orientation experience while addressing risk management blindspots of existing backpacking model
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Shift
From decentralized backpacking → centrally managed, risk-aware program​
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Constraints
Large incoming class · safety, communication, and evacuation limitations · skepticism from old guard
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Timeline
Redesigned and implemented over one summer
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Outcome
Maintained challenge and connection · improved safety and oversight · accessible for all students
Student Development
Need
Develop capable ​student leaders for outdoor programs and facilitation roles​
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Shift
From skill instruction → mentorship grounded in trust, responsibility, and real-world leadership experience​
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Constraints
Varied experience levels · high-responsibility environments · need for both technical and interpersonal growth
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Timeline
1.5 years at institution providing staff training, supervision and academic instruction
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Outcome
Strong student leaders · lasting mentor relationships · continued impact beyond program involvement
University Program Build
Need
Launch a fully functional outdoor program with no existing infrastructure
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Shift
From a large empty room → fully built, student-ready operation​
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Constraints
No equipment · no staff · limited time before semester launch
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Timeline
Built and launched in under 3 months
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Outcome
Fully operational program · staffed and equipped · successful first semester
