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Thank You Donors!

Thanks for Supporting WI in 2011!

January 24, 2012

On behalf of the entire Wilderness Inquiry staff, Board of Directors, and especially the youth and families that we serve, a special thanks to everyone that contributed to our 2011 New Donor Challenge and Annual Fund Campaign! By mid-December the momentum behind the New Donor Challenge was so powerful, we met the Frey Challenge and earned a $30,000 matching grant for acquiring 300 new donors. Then, Cerdian Corporation upped the ante, offering an all-or-nothing $10,000 matching grant for obtaining an additional 100 new donors. I’m happy to share that by December 31, your contributions not only helped us meet this goal but surge past it with gifts from over 400 new donors! In addition to expanding our community of support, we exceeded our 2011 annual fundraising goal! Your generosity has a tremendous impact on Wilderness Inquiry's ability to provide financial assistance and life-changing experiences to people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities on inclusive, outdoor adventures all over the world.

Again, thank you, thank you, thank you!

Best wishes for a safe, happy and healthy 2012 -- See you on the trail!


WI group on Mt. Kenya on January 2, 2012

Greg Lais having fun with two young Maasai Warriors in Kenya.

2012 Trip Schedule

January 16, 2012

If you are on our mailing list you should have received a 2012 trip schedule by now. We have many great trips planned for this year. Two trips have already taken place, one to Kenya and one to Costa Rica. Both were great. Take a look through the website and find your trip today!

If you wish to be added to our mailing list and receive a free trip schedule, go to the “contact us” tab on our website and click on the “Join our mailing list” section. It’s easy, and no cost to you.

We are also happy to talk with you any time by phone if you have a question about a trip--just call us at 612-676-9400.

Hope to see you on the trail!


WI receives 4-star rating from Charity Navigator!

December 31, 2011

Charity Navigator, America's leading independent charity evaluator, works to advance a more efficient and responsive philanthropic marketplace by assessing and rating the "financial health and accountability and transparency of America's largest charities." By utilizing these ratings, donors can see how a charity compares on performance metrics with other charities throughout the country. Donors can be more confident that in supporting those charities rated highly by Charity Navigator, they will be supporting organizations that are financially healthy, accountable and transparent.

We are pleased to report that Wilderness Inquiry received the highest possible rating--four-stars. A four-star rating indicates that WI exceeds industry standards and outperforms most charities in its cause.

"As the nonprofit sector continues to grow at an unprecedented pace, savvy donors are demanding more accountability, transparency and quantifiable results from the charities they choose to support with their hard-earned dollars," says Charity Navigator President and CEO, Ken Berger. "In this competitive marketplace, Charity Navigator, America’s premier charity evaluator, highlights the fine work of efficient, ethical and open charities. Our goal in all of this is to provide donors with essential information needed to give them greater confidence in the charitable choices they make."


Thank you for a wonderful year.

A Year to be Thankful For!

December 26, 2011

It’s hard to believe that 2011 is quickly coming to an end. It’s been a rewarding, fun and eventful year. A lot of things happened!

* Served more than 13,000 people on 290 events. These events ranged from expeditions in the Yukon Territory to day trips on the Mississippi River.

* Expanded Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures (UWCA) events, serving more than 10,000 people! We did this despite some unusual weather; including floods, storms, and record-breaking heat. The students loved it!

* Approved plans for Apostle Islands. We’re working on significant improvements to our wonderful base camp—you will love them.

* Garrison Keillor hosted a fundraising event at his home with St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman in support of getting St. Paul Public School students outdoors to places like Glacier National Park, the Apostle Islands and, of course, the Mississippi River.

* Inaugurated the Great River Race on September 17th. Twenty teams raced from East River Flats to Harriet Island in support of student academic achievement.

* Purchased safety pontoon for the UWCA, and named it in memory of Clifton Crase. We are thankful for a gift from the Paralyzed Veterans of America and Nancy and Veronica Crase.

* Added 5 Voyageur canoes to the fleet, including the Itasca. Our fleet is up to 23 now—seven more boats to go to get us up to 30.

* Provided year-end fundraising support from the Frey Foundation, Ceridian, and dozens of our individual champions, including campaign chair Greg Dehn. This support has been truly awesome—it enables us to do what we do.

We would be remiss in not mentioning our many partners who have done so much to help us meet our mission. A short list includes the National Park Service, the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, the Mississippi River Fund, St. Paul Parks and Recreation, Minneapolis Parks and Recreation, the USDA Forest Service, Northland College, Kiboko Wilderness Adventures, the Minnesota DNR, Canyon Expeditions, the University of MN, Northwest Canoe Company, and many, many more who we will list in our annual report.

We’ve said many times that some of the best people in the world are involved with Wilderness Inquiry—people who care and share and make a difference. This year was no different. Our wonderful staff, board of directors, and volunteers made a HUGE difference in meeting our mission. They care deeply about what we do, and it shows.

Last but not least, we are thankful for you and your support in helping us meet our mission of including everyone in the benefits of full community integration through outdoor adventures. We love what we do, and we know we could not do it without your support.

Thank You!


Veterans will participate on training trips in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, Everglades, and Yellowstone National Park.

A group of veterans and others with spinal cord injuries participated on a kayaking trip in the Apostles Islands last summer.

Sierra Club & WI Partner to Provide Outdoor Leadership Opportunities for Veterans

December 12, 2011

Wilderness Inquiry is thrilled to announce a partnership with the Sierra Club's Military Families Outdoors program to serve veterans on outdoor adventure training trips. These trips are designed to build on veterans’ leadership experience and promote lifelong outdoor recreation skills.

WI has a long history of serving veterans and their families. We serve about 800 veterans through our trips and programs every year. In the 1990s, WI led a major support program for the Agent Orange Class Assistance Program, which served Vietnam veterans with PTSD and other disabilities related to Agent Orange exposure. This past year WI partnered with the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Foundation and Craig Hospital to serve veterans and their families on a five-day kayaking adventure. WI also continues to provide outdoor experiences through sponsored veteran exchange trips.

These many years of serving our veterans have only proven and strengthened our mission to provide the kind of enjoyment, learning, and healing that shared outdoor adventure can provide. One veteran who completed an Everglades trip believes the outdoors not only builds healing, but also provides team-building and personal growth:

"Being a Vietnam veteran, I have always avoided prolonged exposure to rain and getting wet. Being with others of my same bent helped me overcome this issue. I was dry, snug, and comfortable despite the environment. Sometimes, only nature can provide the right challenges at the right time."

Through this partnership with the Sierra Club, WI will provide four training trips for 36 veterans. On these trips, they will spend 6-7 days alongside fellow veterans camping, paddling, hiking, and exploring the great outdoors with our experienced trail staff who will train them to lead their own adventure trips. At each location, veterans will receive canoe or kayak instruction and lessons in outdoor leadership, outdoor cooking and food preparation, camp selection and set-up, and use of adaptive equipment for people with disabilities. Veterans will also have the opportunity to connect with representatives from local chapters of the Sierra Club to learn about the area’s local preservation efforts. The training opportunities will be offered in the following locations, each a Sierra Club priority habitat:

• Florida Everglades 10,000 Islands 6-Day
March 5-10, 2012 (12 veterans)

• Boundary Waters Canoe Area 7-Day
June 10-16, 2012 (7 veterans)
Aug 27-Sep 2, 2012 (7 veterans)

• Yellowstone Lake Backcountry Canoe 6-Day
July 27-Aug 1, 2012 (10 veterans)

Learn more and register at:
http://www.wildernessinquiry.org/veterans

Every day, Americans enjoy the freedom of exploring our shared outdoor heritage. This is our chance to say "thank you" by helping veterans gain the skills and know-how to enjoy the public lands that they have fought so hard to protect.

To read more about the Sierra Club Military Families Outdoors program, visit their blog by clicking here.


WI joins the Outdoor Alliance for Kids

November 22, 2011

The Outdoor Alliance for Kids (OAK) is a national strategic partnership of diverse organizations with a common interest in increasing access to outdoor activities for youth and families. Founded on the knowledge that our future on this planet depends on humans having a deep appreciation for and understanding of the natural world, OAK believes that every child should have the opportunity and encouragement to play outside, dig in the dirt, smell the fresh air, roll down a hill, paddle on a river, climb a tree, and take a hike.

OAK recognizes the role that not only families, but decision-makers have in ensuring that young people are provided with access and opportunities, enabled by skills, and empowered by encouragement to enjoy the great outdoors. Wilderness Inquiry looks forward to building these pathways with our new partners in OAK.


Volunteers personalize notes for WI's annual fund.

Erin writes notes to folks who went on trail with her this summer.

Annual Fund Volunteers Rock!

November 16, 2011

It's that time of year again! Fall colors are fading, and inside at Wi, the flurry and excitement of our annual fundraising campaign fills the air. With help from dozens of volunteers, we are writing personal notes to more than 5,000 people requesting support of WI’s scholarship fund.

Here’s how you can help:

> Help us find new donors! The Frey Foundation has challenged us to acquire 300 new donors in 2011. If we meet this goal, WI will receive a $30,000 grant from the Frey Foundation. Gifts of any size count.

> Create your own WI champion webpage (or ask us to create it for you)! Share your passion for WI with your family and friends through a personalized webpage. Click here for more info.

>Volunteer! Come on out for any of our annual fundraising events. We are writing and sending over 5,000 cards to donors asking them to support our scholarship fund. Volunteers can address envelopes (neat, legible handwriting a must!), assemble materials, and provide support to our fundraising champions. We will provide delicious food, great company and clear instruction!

> Donate! If you haven't yet made your own gift to support WI this year, we hope you will. Click here.


WI in the Washington Post! click here for photos!

WI on the Road! CanoeMobile brings UWCA to Chicago & D.C.

October 31, 2011

A team of six WI staff piled into the "CanoeMobile" and chugged eastward to bring Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures (UWCA) to two major metropolitan areas.

Check it out! Washington Post photos by Linda Davidson click here.

First stop > Chicago!
Thanks to our friends at the John G. Shedd Aquarium, Cook County Forest Preserve, and the US Forest Service, we paddled and performed habitat rehabilitation at the scenic Skokie Lagoons Nature Preserve with 45 Chicago-area youth.

Next stop > Washington, D.C.!
With help from our partners at National Park Service, Environmental Protection Agency, US Army Corps of Engineers, US Forest Service, US Coast Guard Auxiliary, Washington Parks & People, National Park Trust, Anacostia Watershed Society, D.C. Department of Health, D.C. Public Schools, and D.C. Parks & Recreation, we introduced over 550 urban youth to the outdoors while paddling on the Anacostia River just a few miles from the White House.

Anne from St. Ignatius College Prep school attended the event with a group of her students and commented after the paddle, "I have NEVER, NEVER heard the guys (8th grade students) come back from something with the enthusiasm and joy that I heard this afternoon. The teachers who went were all smiles, too."

Our long-term goal is to take the CanoeMobile to cities across America to get urban youth outdoors and inspire community partnerships. During a reception with partners in Washington D.C. WI presented and celebrated our 2020 vision for the UWCA program. We look forward to achieving our goal of serving 200,000 youth in 20 cities by 2020, as well as the lasting impact the UWCA program will have on communities across the nation.


Step One at the WI station: Portage!

Step Two at the WI station: Wash PFDs

WI Hosts Station for Gopher Adventure Race

October 14, 2011

Two hundred U of M students participated in the Gopher Adventure Race on Friday, October 7, 2011. Teams of two raced through the city completing mental and physical challenges at different sites, discovering many of the gems of the city. For the Wilderness Inquiry station, participants portaged a canoe one third of a mile and washed five lifejackets. This was a great opportunity for participants to be introduced to Wilderness Inquiry and we look forward to continue their involvement, as a volunteers, interns, and participants!


Lorna Gleason

Dan Ness

Meet Our New Board Members--Lorna Gleason and Dan Ness

October 14, 2011

We are excited to welcome both Lorna Gleason and Dan Ness to our Board of Directors. Our Board is an involved and experienced group of volunteers who are dedicated to carrying out Wilderness Inquiry's mission. Dan and Lorna are no exception.

Lorna first learned about Wilderness Inquiry through her husband Tom, who sits on the board of the Friends of the Ngong Road, an organization WI partners with in Africa (read more here).


Lorna was attracted to serving on the Board for WI because of her passion for outdoor adventure and travel. Lorna comes to us with a wealth of experience in law, finance, and organizational leadership. Lorna was a partner at Dorsey and Whitney for nine years before she started working in the financial services industry as both general counsel and then in senior leadership roles at both GMAC-RCF and Wells Fargo.

Lorna is currently Founder and President of Financial Assets Advisors, L.L.C. where she advises investors in commercial loan assets. She also has an impressive vitae of nonprofit board experience, including serving as the Chair of the MN, ND and SD Chapter of The Nature Conservancy from 2009 to 2011 and chair of the Global Nature Conservancy Trustee Council. Lorna also served on the board of the Children's Cancer Research Fund. Lorna serves on the Finance Committee of the Board and looks forward to taking many WI trips in the coming years.

Dan is the Marketing Director with UCare, a partner and generous supporter of Wilderness Inquiry. Dan had been interested in and following Wilderness Inquiry from afar for many years, but his involvement began after visiting our office earlier this year with colleagues from UCare. "I just love WI's mission of making the outdoors accessible to everyone," says Dan. Dan is an experienced leader in marketing, public relations, and media relations. He has also served on the Board and as Board Chair for Genesis II for Families, on the Troop Committee for Boy Scout Troop 33, and President of the Council of MInisters for Edina Community Lutheran Church. Dan is helping to establish a Marketing and Communications Committee of the Board and is excited to help us spread the word about WI's mission to more people.


Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Foundation Fund Trip for Veterans/People with Spinal Cord Injuries

October 4, 2011

In August we partnered with Craig Rehabilitation Hospital in Denver, CO to provide a three-day kayaking adventure in the Apostle Islands for 14 individuals, including five individuals with spinal cord injuries and their family members. The trip provided a rare opportunity for these families to participate in a shared outdoor adventure that both pushed their limits and brought them closer together.

Dave, a veteran and former avid rugby player, found a new lease on life on this trip. "Before this trip, I never entertained the prospect of camping on my own," said Dave. After this trip, I have realized that I am very capable to do so." Dave has made the outdoors a reality in his daily life and has already ventured out on his own camping trip.

Carol, who works in rehabilitation at the Craig Rehabilitation Hospital, has worked with many of the trip participants and others with spinal cord injuries and is now able to see new possibilities for these individuals. "It was eye opening for me to see what folks were capable of. In the kayaks, disability was not visible nor a barrier. [This trip] gave new possibilities for independence in their lives."

Thank You to the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Foundation for providing funding for this trip.


Teams race in the 2011 Great River Race

HealthPartners' HealthPaddlers team wins the 2011 Great River Race.

First Annual Great River Race raises funds and awareness for student success

October 4, 2011

Two hundred paddlers took to the water on Saturday, September 17, 2011 for the first annual Great River Race – a canoe challenge designed to raise funds and awareness for the academic achievement gap in the Twin Cities. Proceeds from the race benefit Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures (UWCA), a creative outdoor education initiative that works to reduce the achievement gap in public schools by providing enriching nature-based learning to more than 10,000 students each year. The UWCA is a joint initiative of Wilderness Inquiry, the National Park Service and the Mississippi River Fund, in partnership with Minneapolis and Saint Paul Public Schools.

Congratulations to our winning team: HealthPartners' HealthPaddlers. They crossed the finish line with a winning time of 78:08. The teams raced on and off the water, and The Pig's Eye Parrant Pirates from the City of St. Paul took the award for Most Team Spirit. “We are thrilled with the tremendous corporate and community support we received for the Great River Race in its first year,” said Greg Lais. A huge Thank You to our presenting sponsors Travelers and UCare.

Taste of the Apostle Islands featured by the Heavy Table

September 19, 2011

Emily Friedman shares her tales from the trail, and wonderful photos, from the inaugural Taste of the Apostle Islands trip in August 2011. It's sure to get your mouth watering and paddling itch itching for next year's Taste of the Apostles trip.

Read more about the Taste of the Apostle Islands at the Heavy Table


Coen Family getting ready to paddle the Mississippi River!

Family Fun on the Mississippi River

August 29, 2011

The Coen family recently joined us on a Mississippi River Gorge 1/2 Day Canoe paddle. It was a day of family fun with more than 10 families showing up to enjoy the river! These day trips are a great way to discover the hidden gem of the Twin Cities, the Mississippi River National Recreation Area. The Coen's had such a good time that they are now considering taking a canoe trip out West with Wilderness Inquiry next year!

We have a couple more trips coming up yet this fall. They are filling fast, so sign up now or you will miss the boat!

Read more about the Mississippi River Day Trips


WI leaders Matt and Jen serve up pan fried fresh caught whitefish with all the fixings.

Fresh organic apricots, chevre cheese, and raspberries make a tasty and beautiful
hors d'oeuvre.

Kayaking the sea caves was definitely on the menu, and one of the highlights of the trip!

Taste of the Apostle Islands

August 10, 2011

We just completed our inaugural “Taste of the Apostle Islands” trip. Combining the discovery of the Apostle Islands' natural beauty by sea kayak, with meals made from fresh local ingredients and conversations with local farmers, this trip promises to become a staple of our Apostle Islands trip offerings. Our basecamp at Little Sand Bay provides a wonderful setting for us to establish a variety of connections to the rich culture and history of the Bayfield area. What better way to do that than by sharing hearty and wholesome food after a day of kayaking the sea caves?

Local food writer Beth Dooley, who has a cabin on Madeline Island with her husband Kevin, introduced participants to the incredible bounty of Bayfield County. We enjoyed fresh goat cheeses from the Sassy Nanny, Manchego style sheep’s cheese from Lucky Ewe, just picked cherries, plump and bursting with flavor blueberries, raspberries, and apricots from Tom Glazen at North Winds Organic Farm, melt-in-your-mouth smoked fish from Bodins, just caught Lake Superior Whitefish from Apostle Islands Fisheries, and handcrafted breads from Cocos Bakery, just to name a few. We had the privilege of meeting many of the farmers who provided food for the trip and learning about some of their innovative farming methods. All are dedicated to high quality, sustainably produced food.

We all came away inspired to incorporate more local food into our daily lives and with a deeper respect for the wonderful people and history of the Bayfield area. We are already starting the planning for next year's trips. Watch for more details online and in the trip schedule. This a trip not to be missed!

To see more pictures from this trip Click Here


Scenic Vista of the White Cliffs on Montana's Missouri River

Missouri River paddlers mug for a shot under Big Sky Country.

Montana's Missouri River Poem

July 23, 2011

Participant Jason Cudahy penned this poem after he was inspired by a great trip on Montana's Missouri River. Thanks for sharing this Jason!

The Missouri River
So majestic in its vastness and solitude
Strange sentinnel rock formations watch us
limestone ramparts of geological violence
Now quite like the endless sky and rolling hills to the big fat muddy river
flowing in grand solitude
Opening the west to rugged explorers
Ending an era for others
Bloody battles for land for the homesteader's toil
Nature slowly reclaims what is hers
Like the buzz of locust in the afternoon sun
to the gentle birdsong of the thrush and watchful eye of the eagle.

Out here time has no meaning like the heavy
worrisome days of the city
The river will silently carry us on and with each paddle stroke
We will settle in to the experience like the vastness and majesty
of the Upper Missouri River


The Clifford D. Crase at East River Flats on the Mississippi River

Nancy Crase and the Wilderness Inquiry crew at the launching of the Clifford D. Crase.

Cliff Crase

The Clifford D. Crase joins the Wilderness Inquiry fleet

July 10, 2011

We are delighted to announce the dedication of the "Clifford D. Crase," our new safety support pontoon for the Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures on the Mighty Mississippi River. The Clifford D. Crase will provide an additional margin of safety on these river trips and also provide volunteers and supporters with a way to visit the river and experience the UWCA.

Funding for this boat was provided by the Crase Sports Fund of the Paralyzed Veterans of America in honor of Clifford Crase. Cliff and his wife Nancy discovered Wilderness Inquiry in the 1980's, and have become life-long friends and boosters.

Wheelchair sports and recreation were the life work of Cliff, starting as sports coordinator for the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), and eventually as the editor of Sports ‘n Spokes, the international magazine for wheelchair sports and recreation co-launched by Cliff and Nancy Crase, and PVA’s in-house publication, PN-Paraplegia News.

Cliff was a star athlete before his auto accident ending in quadriplegia in 1959, and became an equally competitive wheelchair athlete at the University of Illinois. He was on executive boards (and Hall of Fame inductee) of both National Wheelchair Sports Association and the National Wheelchair Basketball Association, and helped guide wheelchair sports and subsequently recreation opportunities to develop and expand to what is available today for the disabled community.

Cliff died in 2007 and the Crase Sports Fund at PVA was established to honor his memory as well as provide a continuing contribution to wheelchair sports and recreation. The Wilderness Inquiry pontoon boat is the first grant from this Fund.

Nancy Crase is a professional photographer who participates on WI trips, including trips to Yellowstone National Park and the Upper Missouri River this year. You will see her excellent photography in WI publications, and on this website.

We are truly honored to have the Clifford D. Crase in our fleet and we thank Nancy and Victoria Crase and Paralyzed Veterans of America for helping to make this happen.

Additional information: Contact Nancy Crase at 602 558-1829 or nancy@crasephoto.com


Herb Johnson in 1964

Staff member Adam Hoffman paddles the Herbert C. Johnson through the St. Anthony Lock and Dam on the Mississippi River.

Herb Johnson, one of WI's first board members, passes away at age 89

July 6, 2011

Long time friend and supporter Herb Johnson passed away on June 25th. Herb first met Greg Lais in the mid-1970's during the legislative battle over motorized use in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. Greg became Herb's "go-for" in arranging various events and functions, and Herb became Greg's mentor and life-long friend.

"Herb taught me many things, including that your word is your bond," says Greg. Herb served on the WI board of Directors from 1979 through 1988, providing council and helping to raise money for the then fledgling Wilderness Inquiry. An accomplished business man who started and ran several high technology companies, Herb saw the promise and potential of Wilderness Inquiry from the beginning. It was a way for him to help share his beloved BWCA with people who otherwise might never get the chance to go there.

In December of 2010 Wilderness Inquiry honored Herb by naming one of our 24' Voyageur canoes after him. Voyageur 1 is now called the Herbert C. Johnson. Herb was present at the ceremony, and thrilled to see it. The Herbert C. Johnson is in service on the Mississippi River, taking hundreds of school kids canoeing for the first time in the Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures program.

For a more detailed obituary in the Minneapolis Star-Tribune paste the link below into your browser:

http://www.startribune.com/local/west/125051479.html


WI's operations were disrupted by the closure of Minnesota's State Parks in 2011, but we did manage to re-route all trips and we discovered new partners and access points as a result. Special thanks to St. Paul Park and Recreation and the Watergate Marina in St. Paul for their help with the Outdoor Nation event serving over 100 emerging outdoor leaders.

State of MN Shut Down

July 3, 2011

The State of Minnesota shut down on one of the most beautiful–and busy–weekends of the year. We're sorry to see this for many reasons, including the thousands of people and families who had to leave Minnesota State Parks due to the shut down. Wilderness Inquiry had several trips planned that used Minnesota State Parks, but fortunately we have been able to re-route them to other places, including our base camp up at Little Sand Bay adjacent to the Apostle Islands.

So, if you want to get outside during the shut down give us a call--we'll get you there!

Our deepest sympathies go out to all of the people most effected by the shut down, including people who are homeless, on medical assistance, and those who can least withstand the effects of the impasse in St. Paul. We are also concerned for our many friends who work for the State of Minnesota--many who have worked very hard to prepare for a summer of serving others outdoors.

Let's keep our fingers crossed that the shut down will be brief.


Garrison Keillor gathers the crowd.

Enjoying the view from Lake Woebegone. St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman, Mississippi National River and Recreation Area Superintendent Paul Labovitz, Minneapolis Public Schools Superintendent Bernadeia Johnson, WI Executive Director Greg Lais, Mary Barrie, and Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak

Garrison Keillor and St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman host fundraiser for the UWCA

June 24, 2011

Friends and supporters of the Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures (UWCA) program gathered on June 21 at the home of Garrison Keillor and Jenny Nilsson. St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman and Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak both spoke about their passion for the program and the importance of getting kids outside--for their health and the health of our cities. Even Keillor, the self described "great indoorsman," spoke fondly of his trips to the Boundary Waters with his brother. Keillor recalled hearing great stories about the early days of Wilderness Inquiry from his friend and neighbor, WI trail staff Bill Simpson. Proceeds from this event will support our work with the St. Paul Public Schools AVID program. Many thanks to Garrison Keillor, Jenny Nilsson, and Mayor Coleman for a wonderful evening!


UWCA featured on Minnesota Bound

June 15, 2011

An Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventure with Roseville Middle School students was recently featured on Ron Schara's Minnesota Bound. If you missed it on Kare11 last weekend you can check it on Wilderness Inquiry's YouTube channel. Nearly 400 Roseville students will be floating down the Mississippi River in the coming days!


2011 Trail Staff at training on Lake Nokomis

After staff are trained, they get assigned to trips and events. Megan and Rolf are at our schedule board assigning staff to trips. It's quite an undertaking, really a huge and intricate puzzle.

2011 Staff Training Underway

June 3, 2011

Staff training for 2011 is underway! More than 40 new staff are learning the ways of Wilderness Inquiry from our mission to how to cook great food outdoors. It's a pretty intense week for these people, requiring total focus. We all work pretty hard to master the skills and techniques required to lead great trips all over the world for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Many themes run through staff training, including hard skills, soft skills meta skills (like judgment and decision making) and the principles of servant leadership and inclusion. You'll see the results of this effort when you take a trip with these dedicated and highly skilled staff. They are passionate about sharing the outdoors with everyone!


Apostle Islands Superintendent Bob Krumenaker and WI Program Manager Cory Dahl with Buddy Bison at the APIS Heaquarters in Bayfield, Wisconsin.

Buddy Bison visits the Apostle Islands

May 28, 2011

While on a recent trip to the headquarters of the Apostle Island National Lakeshore we discovered our old friend Buddy Bison hanging out in the gift shop. Buddy is the mascot of the National Park Trust, our good friends who help to protect places and get people outside.


From Left: David Kingman, Jim Langdon, Craig Peterson, Michael Hoffman

Greg Lais thanks former board chair Craig Peterson for a job well done

WI Acknowledges Outgoing Board Members for Years of Outstanding Service

May 11, 2011

Wilderness Inquiry recognized board members David Kingman, Jim Langdon, Craig Peterson, and Michael Hoffman at the last board meeting of their terms this morning. We greatly appreciate the hundreds of volunteer hours these gentleman have given to WI over the last 6+ years.

WI presented each individual with a canoe paddle engraved with a message of thanks and recognition. In addition to their duties as board members, David Kingman, CEO of Kingman Building Company, has provided invaluable advice in developing WI's Little Sand Bay base camp in the Apostle Islands. Jim Langdon, an attorney with Dorsey & Whitney, has provided integral pro-bono legal counsel. Micahel Hoffman, Managing Director at Piper Jaffray, has provided unprecedented leadership as board chair and executive committee chair. Craig Peterson, District 4 Metropolitan Council Representative and Marathon Enterprise, Inc consultant, has been crucial to WI's development since he went on his trip in 1984. He will be deeply missed by all of us--but he is not off the hook yet!

David, Jim, Craig, & Michael–we will miss you on the board, your shoes will be difficult to fill. Thank you for everything.


The new cart shed at Little Sand Bay.

Little Sand Bay Work Crew gets base camp ready for 2011 season

May 11, 2011

An amazing work crew of Boy Scouts from Eagan, WI trail staff, and local chain saw talent performed a ton of work getting ready for the 2011 season. We were able to:

1) Build three tent platforms
2) Clear campsite 5 and install fire ring
3) Build a cart shed
4) Cut, split and stack about 20 cords of firewood.
5) Put in new gravel filled splash boxes at spigots
6) Clear TONS of brush and burn 3 huge piles
7) Tighten and spiff all carts
8) Organize shed and remove a ton of clutter
9) Inventory all gear
10) Inventory and stack a HUGE pile of excess lumber
11) Have fun with only a few minor scrapes and a bit of sunburn.

Thanks to all, especially Hilary, Chelsea, Maury, Erik, John, Riley, Shannon, Colton and the Scouts!!!!


Wilderness Access - Boundary Waters Canoe Area circa 1982

Featured Video:
Wilderness Access

April 18, 2011

On our youtube channel this week we are featuring Wilderness Inquiry's first half hour video ever filmed. It was produced in 1982 by Octavio Molina, Ted Glass, and Ricky Liss. Music by Pole Cat John. This early trip captures the spirit of a WI trip to this day. You'll meet people of all backgrounds and abilities, including people with disabilities, and see how they come to together to enjoy the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. The trip leaders are WI founders Greg Lais and Paul Schurke...when they still had hair! This video won many awards on public television. We hope you can check it out!


WI Welcomes New Interns:
Shannon, John, & Brandon

New Interns Join the Ranks

April 4, 2011

We're pleased to have three new spring interns join our ranks. Internships are an important part of our operations. Each year we have approximately 25-30 people serve as an intern. These folks learn valuable life and work lessons, and they contribute a great to deal to Wilderness Inquiry in terms of work, ideas, and a "can-do" attitude. Shannon Grady (Nashville, TN), John Chevalier (Apple Valley, MN), and Brandon Olson (Plymouth, MN) all started today. We look forward to working with them.

Anacostia River Canoeing Featured on Let's Move Blog

March 7, 2011

DC United Coach, Mike Lingenfelter, is committed to helping urban Washington, D.C., youth to get moving and adopt healthier lifestyles. Wilderness Inquiry provided a great opportunity for the D.C. United youth when WI brought its canoes out to D.C. for paddling on the Anacostia River.

You can see Mike's blog about the event, and learn more about the Let's Move initiative and WI's Anacostia events with DC United at: http://www.letsmove.gov/blog/2011/02/25/planting-the-seeds/


President Obama on America's Great Outdoors Initiative

America's Great Outdoors - A Promise to Future Generations

March 2, 2011

President Obama released the America's Great Outdoors initiative last week. We applaud his commitment to getting more youth outdoors. The Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures program is featured on page 88.

Download the full report:
America's Great Outdoors Report

For more information on America's Great Outdoors, visit their website:
www.americasgreatoutdoors.gov


Anthony Lamaar aka The Soundshaker performs with Mike Droho & the Compass Rose at Wilderness Inquiry's benefit concert.

Four Bands host Rock for a Reason to Benefit Wilderness Inquiry at Fine Line Music Cafe

February 18, 2011

Big thanks to the four great bands that played at the Fine Line last night. The New Distractions, Mike Droho & Compass Rose, South Farwell and Kazyak were all fantastic. Watch the short video clip of Anthony Lamaar aka The Soundshaker shot by Greg Lais with his iPhone.

All of these bands have connections to Wilderness Inquiry. Jeff Milligan-Toffler, fab guitarist for The New Distractions, is married to our Associate Executive Director, Sarah. Cory Dahl, drummer for South Farwell, is WI's Youth Program Director, Anthony Lamaar went to college with Josh Garabunda, and Kazyak guitarist Peter Frey is a trip leader and long time WI supporter (since birth, really). Thanks to all of the other band members--you ROCKED!

Stay tuned for more of these shows!


Mike Miller, President, Northland College, Hilary Bulger, Northland graduate and WI Trail Staff, and Greg Lais, Executive Director, Wilderness Inquiry celebrate our partnership agreement.

WI and Northland College Celebrate Partnership Agreement

February 4, 2011

On February 3, we celebrated our partnership with Northland College by signing a Memorandum of Understanding. This Memorandum formalizes a decades long partnership between Northland College and Wilderness Inquiry, and outlines how we will continue to work together to meet common goals, including:

• Wilderness Inquiry's basecamp at Little Sand Bay, near Bayfield, Wisconsin, will serve as a location for Northland students to conduct research and gain hands on experience in adaptive recreation.

• Northland College will continue to be a great source of student interns and trail guides for Wilderness Inquiry.

• Wilderness Inquiry will continue to support recruitment of potential Northland College students.

• Northland College and Wilderness Inquiry will partner to develop freshman orientation trips and academic travel programs.

WI Executive Director Greg Lais and Northland College President Mike Miller, signed the Memorandum, joined by members of the Northland faculty, staff, and Board of Trustees, and Wilderness Inquiry staff and Board of Directors.

Click here to view article in the Ashland Current


Thank you donors and champions!

Big Thank you to WI Champions!

February 1, 2011

A big thank you to all of the Wilderness Inquiry Champions! More than 66 volunteers from around the country "Championed" WI by writing personal notes to more than 5,000 WI supporters. This effort raised over $386,000 for WI's 2010 Annual Fund Campaign and will provide scholarships, support services for individuals with disabilities, and training for our fabulous trail guides! Last week we celebrated the efforts of our volunteer Champions at a luncheon at our offices in Dinkytown. Because of their efforts we met our fundraising goal and exceeded our goal of acquiring 300 new donors to meet the Frey Foundation challenge. Way to go!

Thank you to all the Champions!

Darren Acheson, Lindsey Albright, Ian Armitage, Ann Bancroft, Debbie Bancroft, Martha Beery Milbery, Pam Biladeau, Amy Buesker, Hilary Bulger, Jim Bultman, Morgan Burns, Dawn Cardelli, Reid Carron, Caroline Closmore, Ken Collier, Scott Crow, Cory Dahl, Greg Dehn, Bob Ditmore, Martha Erickson, Jennifer Fitz-Roy, Karen Flannery, Lee Friedman, Tom Goodwin, Hunt Greene, Kate Hartfiel, Annie Hickman, Michael Hoffman, Mark Holloway, Megan Ihlenfeld, Ardes Johnson, Madeleine Kerr, Dede King, Dave Kingman, Greg Lais, Jim Langdon, Amanda LaRiviere, Susan Lasoff, Deb Liang, Jim Lynch, Tina Makela, Jason Matz, Maureen Mayo, Michael Miller, Sarah Milligan-Toffler, Carol Mizuno, Tom Nelson, Susan O'Connor, Jenni O'Link, Dick Owen, Craig Peterson, Max Pittman, Nicole Probotanojo, Dean Sanberg, John Scanlan, Scott Schaefers, Ethan Schmidt, Paul Schurke, Tom Sexton, Kath Sharp, Audrey Sheffield, Bill Simpson, Kathryn Sinner, Dwight Steege, Julie Storck, Nancy Thomson, Tim Thorpe, John Tuttle, John Villa, Dag Von Ruden, Andy Walz, Eric Weber

Travel advisor extraordinaire, Arthur Frommer, highlights Wilderness Inquiry's inclusive trips -- for people of all abilities, including disabilities.

January 7, 2011

Arthur Frommer notes Nonprofit Travel Organizations Worthy of Support

Wilderness Inquiry internships featured in University of Minnesota's Connect newsletter

January 4, 2011

Wilderness Inquiry internships featured in University of Minnesota's Connect newsletter

We met the New Donor Challenge!

December 21, 2010

Since early October, over 300 new donors joined our ranks! This secured a $30,000 grant from the Frey Foundation for WI.

A big THANK YOU goes out to all of our new donors and champions for their help in getting us there. It made all the difference.

We are super excited about meeting the new donor challenge, but we still have a little work yet to do to reach our overall fundraising goal for 2010.

You can continue to help us meet our goal by spreading the word. Check out our Facebook for ways to spread the word!


Washington DC kids paddle the Anacostia River with Wilderness Inquiry.

Kids get suited up to paddle the Anacostia

Washington DC kids paddle the Anacostia River with Wilderness Inquiry and partners

November 24, 2010

This past week 5 Wilderness Inquiry voyageur canoes, 6 staff and 1 van traveled out to Washington D.C. to share the Urban Wilderness Canoe Program with the nation's capital. During their time there, they brought over 361 youth and 110 adults canoeing on the Anacostia river--a total of 471 people.

The purpose of the trip was to expose the Washington D.C. to this great program that is impacting Minnesota youth. During these canoe trips, they saw blue herons, deer, and beavers. It took much help from many agencies, organizations, and schools to pull off this week of events in D.C. Thank you to all of the partnering organizations that made this trip a success. We hope this is first of many trips we do down the Anacostia River!

Partnering Agencies:
• National Park Service
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
• D.C. Departments of Health and Rec
• Washington Parks and People
• D.C. Green Corps
• Anacostia Watershed Society
• Washington Canoe Club
• Earth Conservation Corps
• USDA Forest Service
• National Park Trust
• Environmental Protection Agency
• Wilderness Inquiry

Participating Schools and Organizations:
• Kenilworth Elementary School
• Washington Latin Public Charter School
• Key Academy
• Will Academy
• Jefferson Houston
• Woodson Academy at Ron Brown
• Stokes Public Charter School
• Neval Thompson School
• E.L Haynes Public Charter School
• United Soccer Club
• DC Home schools

Here is a blog post about the canoe trip from the White House Council of Environmental Quality.


Tina and Audrey are having fun while helping WI.

Bruce and Madeleine make a great team!

WI Annual Fund Volunteers Goes the Distance

November 19, 2010

The conference room at the WI office has been transformed into fundraising central. Dozens of volunteers have come together to raise funds for our 2010 annual fund campaign. Since the beginning of November, volunteers have handwritten thousands of letters to give our fundraising effort the personal touch.

One volunteer named Tina drove more than an hour and a half last Thursday night to help out. Tina said, “WI has given me so much, I had to help.” Thank you Tina!

Big news: The Frey Foundation has challenged us to acquire 300 new donors. Here's how it works:

• 300 New Donors = $30,000 for WI.

Every new donation-no matter the size-will trigger a $100 donation from the Frey Foundation. So far we have 76 new donors, leaving 224 to go. We know we can do it, but we still have some work ahead!

Thanks volunteers, we couldn't do this without you!


Check out our UWCA slideshow featuring pictures from 2010 to see our mission in action.

Thank you to UWCA Volunteers and Staff!

November 17, 2010

Last week we celebrated the 2010 season of the Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures! Joined by our partners, The National Park Service and the Mississippi River Fund, it was a night full of pictures, stories, smiles, and awards!

In 2010, we served over 6,000 Twin Cities youth and 8,000 people total on the Mississippi River! What a feat! Next year we hope to serve 10,000 students!

Thank you to all the staff, volunteers, and community partners that make this program possible!
Here are a few awards to highlight:

Ranger of the Year: Mary Blitzer
Wilderness Inquiry Boat Captain of the Year: Rory Trimbo (He worked over 35 events this year!)
Volunteer Rookies of the Year: Michael Woolsey and Ken Collier


UWCA to Serve more than 400 DC Youth this Week

November 14, 2010

Check out this video showing a group of DC youth experiencing the UWCA on the Anacostia River (read below for more info on this effort). Our team is getting enthusiastic response from participants and partners. Steve Coleman, Executive Director of Washington Parks and People says, "this is the largest number of kids ever to paddle the Anacostia in one week!"


Buddy Bisons practice their canoe strokes in preparation for paddling the Anacostia River in Washington DC.

The UWCA goes to Washington with Buddy Bison!

November 5, 2010

Wilderness Inquiry is teaming up with Buddy Bison of the National Park Trust and several other organizations to demonstrate the Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures program in Washington DC on the Anacostia River. From November 12-18 Cory Dahl (pictured here with Buddy Bison) will lead a WI crew with support from the National Park Service, the USDA Forest Service, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Washington DC Departments of Health and Parks and Recreation, Washington Parks and People, the Anacostia Watershed Society, the Washington Canoe Club, the Environmental Protection Agency, the President's Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition, and DC public and charter schools. We are thrilled to take over 400 DC area kids out in the Voyageur canoes and to recognize the First Lady's "Let's Move Outdoors" initiative in support of America's Great Outdoors. Let's paddle!!


Representing WI at the award ceremony from left: Josh, Cory, Amanda, Lee, Mark, Sarah, Megan, Greg, Jenni, Greg

WI Receives Excellence Award at the Minnesota Nonprofit Awards Ceremony

October 7, 2010

Wilderness Inquiry received the 2010 Large Organization Excellence Award for Non-Profits at the Minnesota Nonprofit Awards Ceremony in Duluth, MN. The one-of-a-kind art glass award engraved with WI's name is now proudly displayed in our reception area. WI is incredibly honored to be recognized with this award as a leader among Minnesota's non-profits.

Check out these links for more information:

• PHOTOS: Nonprofit Award Ceremony

• 2010 Nonprofit Mission and Excellence Awards Recipients

• Minnesota Council of Nonprofits

• more>>


Don Shelby leads the way on a Mississippi River trip from Coon Rapids to Boom Island.

WCCO's Don Shelby Paddles the UWCA

October 3, 2010

Over 90 people joined WCCO news anchor Don Shelby and National Park Service Superintendent Paul Labovitz on an eleven mile paddle from Coon Rapids to Boom Island. It was a perfect autumn day and everyone loved the trip. Don serves on the board of the Mississippi River Fund and he has been a long time supporter of Wilderness Inquiry. He loves the river and the Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures program. Look for him to join us on many more trips in the future.

These trips are open to the general public--you can sign up on our website. This was the last one for 2010 but we'll do many more next summer. It's a great way to spend the day with family and friends.


Greg presents Sarah a plaque commending 20 years of dedicated service.

Greg Dehn, Sarah Milligan-Toffler, Daren Achenson, & Greg Lais

Sarah Milligan-Toffler Completes 20 years at Wilderness Inquiry

September 14, 2010

Congratulations to Sarah Milligan-Toffler on 20 years at Wilderness Inquiry as our Development Director! Next time you see her, say thank you for all of her hard work!

Greg Lais, WI's Founder and Executive Director says it best, "Sarah has been key to WI's success over the last 20 years. She's our tremendously gifted 'go to' person who gets the job done and then graciously gives credit to everyone else."


MCN will present the award to WI Staff at their
2010 Annual Conference

Recipient of 2010 Non-Profit Excellence Award

September 13, 2010

We are thrilled to announce that Wilderness Inquiry will be receiving the Non-Profit Excellence Award from the Management Assistance Program and the Minnesota Council of Non-Profits at their annual conference on October 7th.

We cannot begin to tell you how honored we all are to receive this award. Our board, staff, interns and volunteers all contribute to make WI what it is today.


New Boats Added to the Fleet!

September 8, 2010

We recently added four 23 Foot We-no-na Minnesota 4's to our growing fleet of canoes – these boats seat four people and are the new pride of our fleet! Own a piece of WI history and purchase one of the boats rotating out of the fleet.


If you are interested please email John Jewell at - johnjewell@wildernessinquiry.org


Great Wide Open

August 10, 2010

The 5th Annual Great Wide Open took place on August 11 at Crystal Lake Golf Club in Lakeville, MN. The event raised nearly $10,000 through tournament fees and a silent auction. Proceeds from the tournament will go directly toward building a new Voyageur canoe for the UWCA. Thanks to Amanda LaRiviere and all of our volunteers, especially Bob Ditmore and John DuBois.

Staff Happenings:

May 10, 2010

Congratulations to Kyle Rucker and his partner on the birth of their baby boy, Gabriel in March. Gabriel is doing great and all are happy (despite the lack of sleep). Send Kyle your well wishes when you get a chance.

Where in the world are Mike Foley & Adam Hoffman? From the last we have heard, they recently entered El Salvador. Follow their progress on Mike's blog at: http://www.claritycentral.net/blog/

Adam Klaffky is walking across the United States! Adam started back in October in Daytona Beach, FL, and most recently he was in Santa Fe, New Mexico. According to Google maps, that is 1,798 miles! He plans to make it to Olympic National Park in Washington, which is another 1,539! Good luck Adam!


The Neil DuBois: WI's newest Voyageur Canoe

March 23, 2010

On St. Patrick's Day, a group of WI folks met in St. Paul at Northwest Canoe to celebrate the newest member of WI's fleet of Voyageur canoes. The newest member of the fleet is named the Neil DuBois, in memory of the young man whose love of adventures lives on. The new boat weighs just 180 pounds! This is like a feather compared to the JENNI'O, which we have all come to love at 380 pounds. The photo on the left is the new Voyageur canoe being built in memory of Neil DuBois.

Former Trail Staff Helps with Haiti Relief

February 17, 2010

Former trail staff Michael Barringer-Mills just returned from serving on a relief team in Haiti with American Refugee Committee, based out of Minneapolis. During the short time Michael was there, his team spent time working to decontaminate water, passing out plastic sheets to be used as shelters and helping city officials come up with a supply distribution plan. Michael compared his current work with his experience at WI: "I often say that in emergency humanitarian aid work the best training I ever had was leading WI trips, so what comes around goes around. For example, in Haiti we dropped in 2 days after the earthquake on a military plane with no support on the ground at all and a bunch of supplies and camping equipment. You can bet that skills leading WI trips came into play when I had to organize the assessment team to live off the land for a few days until we were able to get food and water going."

Read more about their efforts in the Star Tribune:
http://www.startribune.com/local/82127647.html?elr=KArks:DCiUUUUr

John Jewell and John Ismdahl Paddled the Mississippi

December 30, 2009

Here's a quote from John Jewell about their adventure: "After fifty-five wonderful days on the river and nearly 1,700 miles we reached New Orleans at about 9:30 p.m. The trip took us through the heart of our country. We paddled through the largest ports and some of the smallest towns. We met hunters, tow boat crews, ferry drivers and an artist; all of whom had a different story to tell. All I can say is wow and thank everyone for their support." Read more about their adventure at: http://uwca2gulf.blogspot.com/


Greg Lais & Jenni O'Link

Unveiling of the
Jenni O'

November 16, 2009

At the recent UWCA Season Party, Jenni O'Link was honored for her work with the UWCA program when one of WI's Voyageur canoes was unveiled to show its new name - the "Jenni O."


Public School students and their teachers carry a voyaguer canoe down to the river

Minneapolis Public Schools paddle with WI

August 5, 2009

Throughout the month of July, Wilderness Inquiry took over 700 summer school students from Minneapolis Public Schools on the Mississippi River to experience their local National Park. This is part of a partnership with the National Park Service, Mississippi River Fund and WI to get over 10,000 students on the river each year.


Team Wilderness Inquiry with Coach Scott Tripps

Swimming for Wilderness Inquiry

July 24, 2009

The 23rd annual Minnetonka Challenge, a 5-mile open water swim, took place on July 18. At this event, Wilderness Inquiry supporters Karen Zemlink, Mary Hauff, and Kelly Lindblom swam as team "Wilderness Inquiry," taking first place in the women's relay division.


Surveying the Hors' d' ouerves!

Grand Opening of Little Sand Bay Base Camp

July 17, 2009

WI recently had the Grand Opening of the Little Sand Bay Base Camp in the Apostle Islands. It was a fun party, live auction, and sing-along out at Camp #3 on the new WI property. Many people came from the local community, the Twin Cities, Madison and Chicago. Thank you to all the folks who donated money for the project and items for the auction - and thank you to those who bought the auction items!

This is just the beginning of the life of this place!


Visit WI's Event Booth!

Madison Canoecopia 2009

April 7, 2009

Wilderness Inquiry attended Canoecopia, often called the World's Largest Paddling Expo. Over 20,000 people attended the event to look at the latest paddling and camping gear, attend speaking events, and see product demonstrations. WI's executive director, Greg Lais, gave two presentations entitled "Accessible Gems of Wisconsin and Beyond."


You will see many of these faces on trips this summer!

January Staff Training

February 5, 2009

Fifteen enthusiastic future WI trail guides attended our January Staff Training, led by Greta Arnquist. Over the three-day "mini-training," selected topics from our week-long summer staff training were covered, giving these trail guides a headstart as we move towards our busy season. Pictured behind them is one of our collapsible Pakboats canoes, to be used on our Porcupine River trip in Alaska.


WI Serves 10,007 People in 2008

December 24, 2008

The annual goal of serving 10,000 people has been met! As 2008 comes to a close, a total of 10,007 people have experienced WI during the past twelve months.

Congratulations, WI!


Robb Rossi is Staff of the Year

December 9, 2008

Program Director Andy Walz presents trail staff Robb Rossi with WI's 2009 Staff of the Year award. Robb has been a dedicated guide for WI since 2004.

The award was presented at WI's 30th Anniversary Community Celebration that took place on December 6. Over 200 people stopped by the Wilderness Inquiry warehouse to celebrate, eat cake, and enjoy square dancing with old time music band Barncats.

Also presented was the Volunteer of the Year Award, which was awarded to Nichol Winiecki, and the William and Lucille Magie Leadership award, which was given to Dave Locey.


Dr. Marti Erickson speaks at WI's 30th Anniversary Gala

30th Anniversary Gala

November 5, 2008

On October 23rd, over 200 WI supporters gathered at Travelers Foundation in St. Paul to celebrate the past 30 years of Wilderiness Inquiry. The keynote speaker was Marti Erickson, PH.D., who spoke about the importance of bringing our children back into nature. Other speakers included Ann Bancroft, Megan O'Hara - first lady of Minneapolis, and Adventure Leadership Program (ALP) participants Ziggy Norberg, Claire Dzierzak, and PJ Wehrwein. All proceeds from the ticket sales and live auction went towards the ALP scholarship fund for youth.


Misty Morning on the Mississippi

October 21, 2008

Autumn colors paint the Mississippi River on a misty October morning in St. Paul. Participants on our fall Mississippi River day trips have been enjoying the spectacular display.


Wilderness Inquiry Presents Recognition Plaque to REI

October 14, 2008

Wilderness Inquiry Associate Director Sarah Milligan-Toffler presents REI staff with a 30th Anniversary recognition plaque. REI has been one of WI's key partners for many years. We look forward to continuing our partnership for many years to come!

Photo: (from left) REI Maple Grove store manager Sam Grubisich, REI Outreach Specialist Mikaela Kramer, REI District Special Events Administrator Matt Poppleton, Wilderness Inquiry Associate Director Sarah Milligan-Toffler, REI Midwest District Retail Director Michelle Yancy, REI Roseville store manager Steve Voltz, REI Administrative Specialist and WI Board Member Deb Liang


Great River School September trip to Voyageurs National Park

September 29, 2008

The largest school trip of the year took place early September. The adventure involved 168 people and 10 days of canoeing in Voyageurs National Park. Participants were from Great River School, "an urban Montessori learning community which prepares students for their unique roles as responsible and engaged citizens of the world."


Special Olympics Minnesota Canoes the St. Croix

August 20, 2008

Special Olympics Minnesota and Wilderness Inquiry teamed up for the first annual three-day canoe trip down the St. Croix River, from Interstate State Park to William O'Brien State Park. The 21 participants had a blast camping along the shores of the St. Croix while enjoying perfect summer weather.


The Great Wide Open 2008

August 20, 2008

The 3rd Annual Great Wide Open took place on August 12. 75 people competed in teams of four at Stillwater's StoneRidge Golf Club, Minnesota's #1 rated golf course by Golf Week Magazine. The day ended with an awards ceremony held over a delicious dinner.

Proceeds from the tournament went to the Neil Dubois Memorial Endowment Fund for Wilderness Inquiry. The fund was set up by Neil's family and friends to help send people in financial need on Wilderness Inquiry's life-changing outdoor adventures.

Photo: Josh Lysne, Andy Reierson, Roger Reierson, and John Hyduke took 1st place. Their winning score was 17 under par!


WI's First Urban Wilderness Canoe Area (UWCA) Trip

August 4, 2008

Wilderness Inquiry's Adventure Leadership Program (ALP) recently scouted out WI's new extended route on the Mississippi River, which begins in Minneapolis and ends near Hastings. WI's goal is to serve over 10,000 youth on this stretch of the river in the coming years.

Star Tribune article: Chasing the Summer Sun Down River

Photo: A quick stop for lunch during the recent Urban Wilderness Canoe Area (UWCA) trip down the Mississippi River.


Wilderness Inquiry Partners with Leave No Trace

July 28, 2008

Wilderness Inquiry is now an official partner of the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics (www.LNT.org). We practice and support Leave No Trace skills and ethics and believe in the stewardship of America's public lands. Join us in our work to Leave No Trace by following these seven, simple principles:

-Plan ahead and prepare
-Travel and camp on durable surfaces
-Dispose of waste properly
-Leave what you find
-Minimize campfire impacts
-Respect wildlife
-Be considerate of other visitors


WI staff Ryan and Katie at Dragon Festival

Dragon Festival

July 15, 2008

Wilderness Inquiry attended the 12th annual Dragon Festival this past weekend at Lake Phalen in St. Paul. The event celebrates the diverse Asian-Pacific cultures through dragon boat racing, cultural performances, martial arts exhibitions, and a variety of children's activities.

Sunny weather brought many people out to the festival. WI trail staff and volunteers took 650 people canoeing in Voyageur canoes in a span of eight hours.


Kayaking is for Everyone!

July 6, 2008

On Saturday April 5th, WI hosted a kayak event in Santa Barbara. Over 100 people tried out kayaks on beautiful West Beach. Special thanks to our friends and volunteers who helped out. Thanks also to Santa Barbara Yacht Club and Alpha Resource Center for providing gear to make the day a huge success!


WI recognizes Mitsubishi Electric America for its support of WI's programs for youth with disabilities. Presenting the award are WI youth participants (from left) Kyle Rucker and PJ Wehrwein and WI Executive Director Greg Lais. Accepting the award is Mr. Akria Tasaki, President and CEO Mitsubishi Electric America.

Wilderness Inquiry Honors the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation

July 1, 2008

As part of our 30th Anniversary celebrations, WI is recognizing funding partners whose support has been instrumental in our work. On Sunday, June 22, WI Executive Director Greg Lais, and youth participants Kyle Rucker and PJ Werhwein presented Mr. Akria Tasaki, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Electric America, and Rayna Aylward, Executive Director of the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation with a plaque recognizing their commitment to providing opportunities for youth with disabilities to participate fully outdoor activities. Thank you Mitsubishi Electric America!


Staff Training 2008

June 13, 2008

Amy Buesker recieves high fives from fellow trail staff during this year's staff training, which concluded on June 7th. The week included a three day canoe trip down the Mississippi River, testing out a new route for future Wilderness Inquiry trips.

See more pictures from staff training!


Board Retreat in the Apostle Islands

May 30, 2008

The Wilderness Inquiry Board of Directors and their families recently spent the weekend at our new property near Little Sand Bay. They met with local partners from the National Park Service, Northland College, and friends who are helping with development of the new campground that will service our Apostle Islands trips.


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