Help Make A Life Changing Experience Possible

News Flash: Every donation will be matched up to $25,000 by December 31, 2025 thanks to 3 generous families!

Every dollar raised helps support the 5-night, 6-day culminating trip for Changemakers at the beginning of the summer.

For Cottonwood Institute (CI) students ready to take their leadership to the next level, the Changemakers Outdoor Leadership Corps offers a transformative, year-long experience for CI alums. This advanced program deepens students’ outdoor skills, leadership capacity, and civic engagement, equipping them to become powerful advocates for their communities and the environment– all at no cost to students and families. Participants leave with real-world leadership skills, a strong sense of agency, and a lasting commitment to environmental stewardship.

"Overall I feel that this program changed my life forever, and I found a place where I could be myself. I learned so much about the outdoors, but also about myself. I would highly recommend this program to any person on this planet, no matter their age.” Kira G., Former CAP student, Changemaker, and current CI Instructor

Why Your Support Matters

Changemakers are raising money for their culminating multi-day backpacking trip at the beginning of the summer where they design and implement the planning, logistics, itinerary, routes, gear, food, and transportation. They can explore anywhere in Colorado, so the sky is literally the limit. Read more about the 2025 Changemaker trip here. Donate today to help make a life changing experience possible for our 2025-26 Changemakers!

Your donation helps cover:

• A canoeing experience during their trip
• Nutritious meals and snacks for all students
• Safe transportation and gas
• High-quality gear and equipment

Every dollar ensures that no student misses out due to financial barriers.

How You Can Help

• Donate directly today. Any amount helps us reach our goal!
• Create your own fundraising page to rally friends and family to give. It’s easy, just click “Create My Own Fundraiser” and personalize your page with your story, photo, and fundraising goal.
• Share on social media! Tell your community why outdoor education matters and tag #Changemakers #CottonwoodInstitute 

Your Support Creates Lifelong Impact

Your gift doesn’t just fund a trip, it cultivates the seeds of leadership, environmental stewardship, and lifelong confidence. Join us in helping these students step outside, challenge themselves, and experience the power of nature.

Donate or Start a Fundraiser Today!

Help us reach $10,000 by May 31st, 2026 and give every student the chance to explore, grow, and thrive.