Chicago Adventure Therapy

“I know you. We did the paddling trip.” – Carlos*
“Yes, how’ve you been? Who’s your friend?” - me
“That’s my PO (Parole Officer).” - Carlos

This is a conversation I had last night at the Strides for Peace Race Against Gun Violence. The young man who approached our table came on a trip with us to the Apostle Islands in 2024. I haven’t seen him since then. At the time he was part of a gang prevention and intervention program. I’m always excited to see these guys that are a part of that program, even with a Parole Officer in tow. If he’s here at the race, that means he’s still alive and still involved with a program that is helping him see a different path in life. We chat for a bit and I give him my card, hoping to get him on another trip this year, to get more time with him out of the neighborhood.

This is CAT’s seventh year doing the Race Against Gun Violence, which raises awareness about the problem in our city and raises funds for organizations working to end it.

This is one of my favorite days of the year. I always get a little choked up right before we start the 5K, looking around at all the people in the race corral. Folks of every color, age, shape, and size, in a sea of green (the race shirt color this year), each with their own reasons for running. I think about Eli, and all the participants and friends we’ve lost to gun violence. I think about Carlos*, and all the participants we currently work with, living in high violence neighborhoods, just trying to survive. And I think about Ricardo, and all our participants who overcame, who owns a business and has a beautiful daughter. This is not a race about speed and fitness, with one winner. Because when we come together as a city to say enough is enough and that we care, everyone wins.

I brought my daughters with me this year. I try hard to explain what this race is about, but they are still more excited about the free candy. I hope that they get it someday, but I also hope that this race is unnecessary by then.

Thank you to everyone who donated to our RAGV fundraiser and who believes that together we can make a difference. If you would like to support us in this work, there’s still time: https://runsignup.com/lsragv2026

-Laura

*Name changed for privacy
Carlos is the second from the left

Registration is live for Midwest Rock 'N Routes 2026 climbing festival at Devil's Lake! Join us on September 25-27th! More information at midwestrocknroutes.org

We got the chance to work with BOAT: The Bus for Outdoor Access & Teaching at Beaubien Woods. The joy they spread through their voices and song was magical. I hope that we can take some of that energy and bring it to more programs this summer.

I learned a lot at the Strengthening Chicago's Youth training this past Tuesday about engaging families and youth in programming and partnership. Thanks for putting this on!
-Laura

We had a great day on the water with Urban Rivers and their River Rangers! Lots of time on the river to sharpened kayak rescue skills to prepare for a busy summer of Chicago River cleanups.

The training included self-rescues, T-rescues, and pontoon boat-assisted rescues. All essential for staying safe and responding confidently in unexpected conditions.

We’re happy to partner with Urban Rivers and help build a stronger, safer paddling community.

Safety matters to us, on and off the water. That's why we are proud to be recognized with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators National Paddlesports Committee Honors (NPCH) for promoting safe paddling practices.

Welcome back to Catching Up With CAT, this is Fiinoh, and this week at CAT we traveled to Michigan for the WMCKA Symposium. Before the trip we spent a lot of time in meetings planning the kids program, packing gear, and talking about how to create an environment where the kids could have fun while also learning important leadership and teamwork skills. I think that preparation really showed throughout the week because the kids were able to step outside their comfort zones while still feeling supported and safe.

Throughout the week we coached the kids program, kayaked, went on scenic hikes, played games on the water, and even made a giant chalk walk and huge hopscotch course. One of my favorite parts was teaching the kids self rescues and then watching them grow confident enough to lead the group out on the water themselves. Seeing the kids encourage each other, be creative, and build confidence reminded me why CAT’s work is so impactful and why creating spaces like this for young people matters so much.

-Fiinoh

We need a few more volunteers to help with a climbing program at Steelworkers Park this Saturday, May 30th. We're looking for folks who are belay certified at any climbing gym. If you are available please DM us or contact Laura.

Our friends at Fjällräven Chicago are hosting a Trail Challenge this summer! Their goal is to strengthen community and encourage more people to get outside to explore the many local trails in Chicago. Come to their free kickoff event and earn rewards: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fjallraven-chicago-trail-challenge-2026-kick-off-tickets-1989346446774?aff=oddtdtcreator