BK2AK and FD: Creating Impact Through Adventure!

Joining Forces

First Descents is honored to partner with the nonprofit organization Brooklyn to Alaska (BK2AK) to strengthen program delivery and enroll the unique perspectives of their guides. The benefits of this partnership are substantial and mutual: BK2AK leaders join as paid interns to learn leadership skills and confidence with an established and reputable organization. Equally inspiring, FD programs are enriched by BK2AK’s guide experience, emotional intelligence and unique perspectives.

BK2AK is an adventure-forward organization that provides a pathway for diverse urban youth to create transformative, life-defining experiences in the rugged and majestic terrain of Alaska’s Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. BK2AK is closing the gap to wilderness adventure by increasing access to the outdoors. Central to BK2AK’s unique model is that program graduates are professionally trained as river guides, setting the stage for impactful work in the outdoor industry. 

BK2AK and First Descents share the belief that adventure can transform lives. Since 2023, three BK2AK leaders—Samuel “Pyrex”,  Jonah “Screw” and James “Packraft”—served as interns on ten programs, supporting more than 150 young adults impacted by cancer. Programs include kayaking on the Rogue River, surfing in Santa Cruz, and climbing in Moab and Estes Park. Each intern was mentored by FD program coordinator JJ “Scrambler” Simms to prepare for their program.

While on programs, interns participated in daily check-ins with Lead Staff to review daily goals and discuss opportunities for leadership, such as facilitating First Descents ceremonies or assisting with daily scheduling. From leading campfires and coordinating program logistics to keeping spirits high, their dedication and teamwork stood out in every task. These opportunities allowed the interns to develop skills specific to outdoor guide work, including client management, public speaking, delegation, balanced decision-making and risk management.

“Participants were stoked that Screw was there—as a young learner stepping up as a leader,” commented an FD lead staff member. “I appreciated our nightly check-ins with Screw about his goals and what specifically he was learning.” 

“Pyrex is a ninja. He kicked off campfire, led shoutouts, and was included in all shuttle decisions. He stepped out of his comfort zone and absolutely crushed every aspect of an FD program,” said Lead Staffer “Sweet D.”

Fostering Partnership

Whether enhancing local services, creating job opportunities, or driving social initiatives, partnerships like the BK2AK and First Descents team-up create a multiplier effect that amplifies impact. These collaborations build a stronger, more resilient community where resources are optimized, innovation is encouraged, and lasting connections are forged for the betterment of all.

“Partnerships are the cornerstone of a thriving community, fostering collaboration, shared resources and collective growth,” says Mackenzie “Flygirl” McGrath, FD’s Vice President of Programs. “By joining forces, organizations, businesses and individuals can leverage each other’s strengths to address common challenges and unlock new opportunities.”

Below, Pyrex and Screw share more about about their experiences as program interns on the Rogue River in July 2024: 

What has FD given in a sense of the future of a career in the outdoor industry? 

“It gives me more doors to the industry by meeting lots of people. Opens my perspective on being involved in the industry in a logistic and administrative way. I can look for a position that is more sustainable in this industry.” – Pyrex

What value did you gain from participating?

“Seeing a trip run by different lead staff groups and styles. I saw new ways to make a trip run seamlessly. Last year I only saw one trip, so this year it was cool to see it done in two different ways.” – Screw

“I want to work on having deeper conversations with people. The main point of being an outdoor guide is having deep conversations and connections with people … I want to work on that.” – Pyrex

First Descents is deeply grateful to Brooklyn to Alaska for this partnership and we look forward to collaborating for years to come! 

Want to learn about Brooklyn to Alaska? Visit their website here.