Outdoor program wants to get kids off the couch

An outdoor adventure program for children 6-16 years old who aren’t interested in traditional ball sports is moving into its second year in the Flathead.

Snowboarder, climber, kayaker and all-around outdoor enthusiast Carlos Florey said he tried coaching Little League and walked away, calling the experience “brutal.” He said he wanted to inspire kids to be active, but coaching from a dugout was simply the wrong fit.

Florey has since put his energy into creating the nonprofit YAKiN outdoor adventure group — Youth Adventure Knowledge Inspiration from Nature — a program designed for kids who would rather run through the woods than around a baseball diamond.

Florey works on the program with co-director Carter Eash and volunteer and guide Greg Fortin, both of Columbia Falls.

The program aims to build outdoor skills and life lessons by combining adventure with community service. It also aims to get children off the couch. Florey launched the pilot program last summer. This year, the program goes into high gear.

YAKiN is offering one-day climbing and mountain biking trips, and separate one-day rock climbing workshops that run in partnership with the Whitefish Parks and Recreation Department. The trips are divided into age specific groups.

YAKiN is currently recruiting seventh-graders for their multi-sport Ongoing Program. Participants will go on three-day backpacking or river rafting trips and try rock climbing.

Each participant is required to obtain pledges toward the $300 tuition. They then earn their entrance fees by completing community service projects. Those who sign on for a second year in the Ongoing Program are encouraged to become mentors and give back to new participants.

The program is currently accepting donations for used gear, including climbing shoes, tents, backpacks and sleeping pads. They are also looking for people interested in serving on their board.

A fundraiser and silent auction for the YAKiN program will take place at Glacier Discovery Square on Saturday, April 28, from 5-8 p.m. Admission is $10 per person or $25 per family. For more information, visit online at www.goyakin.org.