After nine wonderful years of providing summer recreation at no charge for youth in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, Timber Trails Children's Project is taking a new direction.
In 2008, we are embarking on an exciting new project called "Kids Country for Good".
The mission of the project is to sponsor a site on the internet for youth, teachers and schools in order to:
"For each of the last seven consecutive summers Timber Trails has provided almost 500 of Phoenix' neediest youth a wilderness adventure. For these children who normally live below the poverty line, Timber Trails and its supporters have presented them with the experience of a high quality backpacking adventure that offers not only recreation but inspiration. Your service has added value to the quality of life for the children of Arizona. I thank you for your service and congratulate you for your extraordinary leadership."
| Janet Napolitano |
| Governor of Arizona |
"I congratulate Timber Trails Children's Project for making the Valley's neediest children a priority. Away from the heat, noise and concrete of the city, this summer camp provides Phoenix children with the chance to expand their view of the world and, subsequently, of themselves. The value of spending time in the wilderness is essential to enriching our children's lives. It offers new perspective, encouragement, and the chance to see a different, more positive side of life. All of us working together will help find them the opportunities they need to be successful in their lives. I urge all Arizonans to support this vital project."
| The Honorable Ed Pastor |
| U.S. Representative |
"Of all the programs I have been involved with in 32 years of public education, most pale in comparison to the Timber Trails experience. I have seen first hand countless inner-city youth change their life around based on this program. It is far, far more than a wilderness backpacking experience but a program which teaches self-esteem, responsibility, leadership, problem solving and decision making, goal setting, literacy, team work, cooperation and maybe most importantly the ability to appreciate different cultures and celebrate diversity."
| Dr. Robert Donofrio |
| Arizona State University |