Program areas at Apple Ridge Farm
Academic summer camp is Apple Ridge Farm's flagship program, providing low-income children ages 6-16 with a daily mix of academic instruction and outdoor activities. Instructional areas focus on reading, writing, steam (science, technology, engineering, art and math), and environmental education. Outdoor activities include organic agriculture, hiking, swimming, tennis and challenge courses. Project-based learning techniques are utilized, and emphasis is placed on developing each child's social- emotional skills. At family camp day, parents attend presentations and workshops to assist them in developing postsecondary academic or vocational education plans for their children.
The environmental education program provides science and nature field trips and educational programs to elementary and middle school students. Students learn about biology, ecology, and conservation through field identification of terrestrial and aquatic species, and hands-on learning about life cycles, adaptation, and conservation of each species.
Ebase usa-blue Ridge: lessons in sustainability is an educational program structured around Apple Ridge Farm's unique off-the-grid learning lab housed in a former 1917 railroad boxcar that is heated, cooled, and powered exclusively by wind and solar power. Our ebase curriculum is designed to teach young people about sustainability and climate change. The ebase program is part of academic summer camp and is also offered as a stand- alone program.
The aspire mindsets program is an in-school and after school pilot program designed to combat behavioral issues in young men. This pilot program is taking place at fairview elementary school and consists of 5th grade boys who are experiencing extreme behavioral issues in the classroom. With a combination of character building exercises and mentorship this program seeks to decrease the frequency and severity of behavioral issues in our youth and increase their potential for future success. Get outside is a single day program for any youth serving organization, church, school, or any of our current partnerships to be able to come and experience Apple Ridge Farm for a half day or full day adventure free of charge. This program focuses on the "whole child experience- and incorporates environmental education, physical wellness, mindfulness, as well as adventure in our high and low ropes courses. The program runs throughout the year with the exception of during our academic summer camp.