This March, a group of students from Global Kids took a break from the city to immerse themselves in nature, leadership, and teamwork at the Ashokan Center. Their retreat was a vivid reminder of how stepping into a new environment can spark curiosity, confidence, and connection.
Guided on a hike through the dramatic cliffs of Cathedral Gorge, the students experienced the Esopus Creek in early spring. Icicles clung to the rock faces while the creek moved with the energy of the winter thaw, creating a scene that was both powerful and peaceful.
“At the start, these students had no idea what to expect,” their guide shared. “But they felt safe and confident enough to explore. Some asked questions, others quietly took it all in, and others connected with new people along the way. By the end, their joy was unmistakable.” 
The retreat wasn’t just about the landscape. Throughout their time on campus, students participated in leadership workshops, group activities, and moments of reflection designed to build confidence and strengthen community. Even simple walks became opportunities for conversation and discovery.
Hosting groups like Global Kids is at the heart of the Ashokan Center’s mission. Experiences like this bring together nature, education, and community in a way that stays with participants long after they leave.
As the group returned home, they carried more than memories. They left with new perspectives, stronger connections, and a sense of what can happen when you step outside your comfort zone and into something new.
Photos by: Patty Mooney