Background and Philosophy Moondance offers young people quality outdoor experiences that teach self-reliance, team building, problem solving, and conservation. No previous outdoor experience is necessary. Focusing on this mission, Moondance instructors work diligently to establish a nurturing, noncompetitive environment in which every student has the chance to challenge his or her preconceived limits. Moondance travels in small groups so that each person becomes a valued member of the team. By the conclusion of each program, students have gained valuable wilderness skills, such as minimum-impact camping, trip planning, navigation, backcountry cooking, and leadership.
All programs promote an abiding respect and appreciation for the wild places participants visit.
Moondance strongly supports the national education program, Leave No Trace, and teaches students about minimum-impact camping. In addition, students and leaders spend a portion of one day participating in service projects with local park rangers to teach students about the need to preserve the land. Once young people learn these skills, they are well prepared for a lifetime of outdoor enjoyment and a lifetime commitment to protecting the environment. On every Moondance trip, students assume responsibility for themselves as well as for the other members of their group. Though each young person is encouraged to explore and challenge his or her own limits, individual accomplishments must always take a back seat to group goals and initiatives.