As we recognize the solstice as a turning point into the new year and a new cycle, we pause to consider all that last year showed us. Even in times of extreme changes in the world this last year brought us many great experiences in nature with our youth. 

The classroom of nature always seems to inspire a higher intelligence of awareness. Without a doubt for us this is higher education – One that should be considered an inalienable right for our youth to express their authentic selves.    

Our youth, who over the last two years, have been locked in their houses with online school and having to wear masks seem to transform before our very eyes as we go out into nature and experience hiking, rock climbing and fishing; Exemplifying the human need for nurturing through the simplicity of just being in nature. It’s as if the elements in nature are communicating with all of us and giving a sense of connection and comfort. 

What we recognize is that when our youth feel good about themselves, respect themselves and interact with a caring adult within these natural environments everything seems to connect and make sense. We are committed to helping our kids build a foundation that is like roots for themselves to grow in a way that is healthy - mentally, physically, and spiritually. 

We are in a highly technological time and our future is clearly at a crossroads. To navigate these crossroads we need to be able to think clearly and being in nature can help advance our ability to think clearly, responsibly and respectfully. It’s like Einstein said, "We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them." 

 What will our future become if we allow technology to take over the ability of a human being to connect with nature and the reality of living in the natural world? If our youth do not learn about their connection to nature and the reality of what it means to be a human, it’s hard to imagine the future of life on Earth. 

The Sacred Rok classroom is nature and our lessons are based on sincerity, respect and responsibility for ourselves and each other. What we are learning is that the Earth is here for us. The Earth is referenced as a mother because she truly nurtures all life. We have nothing without the Earth. 

 The pillars of Sacred Rok are adult care, good nutrition, outdoor activities, and nurturing experiences that give our youth a solid foundation so that they always have a reference that helps them feel good. It is about keeping the human being human by keeping the connection to the Earth. 

We are committed more than ever to see a future that can respect all life, that works together with the higher intelligence that has been written into nature from the beginning. 

 We sincerely thank you, 

Ron Kauk, Executive Director

Katie Lambert, Chief Operating Officer

This vision of Sacred Rok, which started in 2009, has only been possible through your generous donations and we are always thankful for that.