Vision
A socially-just, sustainable society, more integrated with nature and the outdoor environment
Mission
To promote transformative outdoor learning experiences that enhance personal and interpersonal development, creating a deeper understanding of our interdependence on nature.
VALUES
Our ‘Non-negotiables’
Espouse a participant centred focus at all times.
Recognise and harness the therapeutic benefits of nature in all programmes.
Prioritise affordability, accessibility and sustainability in our outdoor learning experiences.
Promote equality, social-justice and anti-discriminatory practices
Uphold Honesty and Integrity in every aspect of Venture Out operations.
Promote environmental conservation and a deep understanding of our interdependence on nature.
Support Adventure, Creativity, and Innovation in all aspects of our operations
PHILOSOPHY
Philosophy & Theory of Change
Venture Out Wilderness Project believe that every participant has their own unique set of personal needs and desires, while we also strongly believe the necessary strengths and skills to address and meet these needs lie within. Through our work, we place great trust in these inner qualities and design our programmes with the view to reinforcing and building upon them. By adopting this approach, we provide people with an opportunity to build self-confidence and self awareness, while developing a range of strategies to overcome the challenges they face.
In addition, we place great emphasis on the role nature and the outdoor natural environment plays in the change process. By engaging our participants in a range of experiential, creative and challenging outdoor nature-based activities, we find it is often the natural environment itself that serves as the ultimate catalyst for personal development and positive change.
Defining our work
Within the outdoor sector, there are 4 main categories
Recreation – The main purpose of outdoor activities are for fun, enjoyment and excitement
Educational/Training – Outdoor activities are delivered to develop participant’s knowledge and skills.
Developmental – Here the aim is for participants to develop their behavioural traits. Focusing on changing aspects of their inter and intra personal skills.
Therapy - Here the aim is to change emotional states especially in regard to close relationships and the reducing of dysfunctional behaviours such as addiction and mental health. Often known as adventure therapy, and should only be delivered by registered therapists
While Venture Out work on some level, interchangeable within all of the above areas, we primarily work within the Developmental sphere. Developmental training is concerned therefore with enhancing or bringing out potential skills that people possess. This form of training tends to focus on identifiable intrinsic and interpersonal skills.
You can access our latest set of accounts here