Words & Photos Dana Hutchings, Co-CEO, Power To Be
Power To Be is a registered charity that creates access to nature for youth, adults, and families living with cognitive, physical, financial, and social barriers.
For over 25 years, Power To Be has been making nature more accessible through inclusive outdoor programs that support well-being and build community. Whether through adaptive recreation or nature-based learning, our goal is to create experiences that are empowering, meaningful and tailored to the needs of each participant.
We run programs across Vancouver Island, where our fully accessible Prospect Lake site offers forest trails, camping areas and waterfront access, and in Metro Vancouver and the Mainland, where we partner with local parks and organizations to offer outdoor experiences to a wide range of communities. From kayaking and hiking, to camping and snowshoeing, to landscaping and mindfulness, we offer a variety of activities designed to meet people where they’re at.
This year, we’re excited to expand our reach with the launch of our new Pathways for Seniors program, which supports older adults in accessing nature-based experiences. Funded in part by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program, this initiative is helping seniors reconnect with the outdoors and with each other, reducing isolation and promoting wellness. Opportunities include canoeing, movement sessions, educational nature talks, gardening and more.
One of the things that makes Power To Be truly special is our dedicated community – our staff, volunteers, partners and participants who share a belief in the power of nature to bring people together, and ultimately, to change lives. Nature isn’t just a backdrop for our programs. It can offer a moment of stillness, a change in perspective and the space to heal, and research continues to show that time outdoors can reduce stress, improve mood and support overall well-being. For many of our participants, these experiences are not only joyful – they’re life-changing.
At Power To Be, we believe that Everyone Belongs in Nature, and I have witnessed firsthand the magic that happens when people feel supported, connected, and free to explore the outdoors. The impact of these moments lasts well beyond the day itself, and I’m so grateful to everyone who continues to help us create these experiences.
We’re always looking for new ways to engage with and support our community, and there are so many ways to get involved with Power To Be – donating, volunteering, and spreading the word to create awareness are just a few ways that you can help us keep running our inclusive programs. If you or someone you know could benefit from our programs, we would love to hear from you!
Over the years at Power To Be, I’ve seen time and time again that when we come together as a community, truly incredible things can happen. Let’s build a world where everyone – regardless of age, ability, or circumstance – can experience the freedom and healing of nature.
To learn more or get involved, visit www.powertobe.ca or email us at info@powertobe.ca.
