The ORC Collaborators are active in multiple areas of practice and research which we call Communities of Practice and Research.
We have identified collectively 12 areas of focus in order to expand and include diverse uses of the outdoors and experiential practice which are not limited to adventure therapy.
Adaptive Outdoor Recreation and Sport
Adaptive outdoor recreation and sport are designed to provide inclusive and accessible opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in physical activities in natural environments.
Community-Based Experiential, Adventure, and Outdoor Programming
Community-Based Programming focuses on the use of kinesthetic experiences that foster personal growth, skills, and engagement through outdoor and experiential activities.
DEIB in Experiential, Adventure and Outdoor Programming
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) in experiential, adventure, and outdoor programming is essential for creating welcoming and accessible environments for participants from diverse backgrounds.
Experiential, Adventure and Outdoor Programming in Schools and Colleges
Programming in schools and colleges integrates hands-on learning experiences often in natural settings to enhance student engagement and personal development.
Nature, Nature Based Programming and Environmental Justice
Nature and nature-based programming promotes the physical and mental well-being of communities by encouraging outdoor activities and connection with natural environments.
Outdoor, Adventure and Experiential Programming for Substance Use Prevention and Treatment
Outdoor, Adventure and Experiential Programming for Substance Use Prevention and Treatment benefits substance abuse recovery efforts by providing a unique, immersive environment that fosters personal growth and emotional healing with aims to support sustained sobriety.
Outdoor, Adventure and Experiential Programming in Child Welfare
Outdoor, Adventure, and Experiential Programming in child welfare utilizes nature-based activities to promote the well-being and development of at-risk youth.
Outdoor, Adventure and Experiential Programming with Veterans
Outdoor, Adventure and Experiential Programming provides veterans with transformative experiences that foster personal growth, social connectedness, resilience, and well-being.
Sport, Adventure and Outdoor Programming for Prevention and Positive Youth Development
Sport, adventure, and outdoor programming for prevention and coaching play a vital role in positive youth development by fostering essential life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience.
Training, Education, Leadership and Professional Development
Training, education, leadership, and professional development in experiential, adventure, and outdoor programming are crucial for continuing to evolve practice and move us forward with the skills and knowledge necessary to create impactful experiences.