This summer, our partner the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority hosted a series of hiking events for our foster youth, their CASA Volunteers and our staff filled with enriching activities in the outdoors.
The first event kicked off at the Little Uvas Open Space Preserve. A representative from the Open Space Authority met our group for a warm welcome in the morning accompanied by horses. Our children were ecstatic to be able to interact with the horses. After feeding the horses, our children and CASAs were provided with art supplies for art lessons with an instructor in the open space courtesy of our partner. Following the lesson, everyone got to enjoy a small picnic before going on a hike.
“My CASA youth and I attended the Open Space Series event earlier this summer,” said Leslie Anido, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Volunteer. “They provided a safe and fun learning opportunity for us in attendance. The art lesson, along with the gift of paints and paper, fit right into the interest of my youth keeping him engaged the entire time. The hike was easy enough for all of us in attendance, yet there were additional trails to explore if some chose to do so. I appreciate the efforts of everyone involved in providing such an enriching and delightful day. We both had a marvelous time creating memories outdoors!“
The second event took place at the Ulistac Natural Area. After receiving a door prize during their welcome, the representative from the Open Space Authority surprised our group with an opportunity to meet a snake. Although some members of our group were nervous to pet the snake, everyone was excited to be able to see one up close in person. Everyone then got to explore the grounds during a nature photo hunt activity followed by a picnic together.
Below are a few images from the staff of their adventures during the Open Space Series Hike events.
