Healthcare Worker Programs

In 2020, First Descents launched outdoor adventure programming for healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to leadership support from Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, The VF Foundation, and #StartSmall.

Healthcare workers endure significant stress, trauma, and psychosocial challenges and we’re dedicated to caring for those who care for us by providing trauma-informed adventure programs aimed at respite and renewal. First Descents will continue to serve young adult healthcare workers through weeklong adventure programs offered each year. Healthcare Worker Programs are designed to improve mental health, nurture supportive peer relationships, and better position providers to carry out their important work. Left unaddressed and without effective opportunities for respite and renewal, our healthcare system may face long-term disruption.

To be eligible to attend, participants must currently be between the ages of 18-45 and work within the healthcare industry. To get more information about our Healthcare Worker Programs, please click the “Inquire about a Program” button below and fill out the inquiry form!

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Healthcare Workers

Kayaking | Hood River, OR – Healthcare Workers

May 28, 2023 - June 2, 2023

Located in the famous Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, our Hood River programs are the perfect introduction to whitewater kayaking. You won’t be able to beat the intoxicating thrill of kayaking down glacial runoff from a 12,000-foot volcano so trust us when we say you’ll be amazed by the…

Eligibility: Healthcare Workers Participants, ages 18-45
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Healthcare Workers

Kayaking | Rogue River, OR – Healthcare Workers

July 9, 2023 - July 14, 2023

The Rogue River starts its journey at Crater Lake and winds its way through 215 miles of Oregonian wilderness. The warm water, friendly rapids, and lush scenery make it the perfect kayaking playground for beginners and experts alike. Expert guides from Sundance Kayak School will teach you the basics and…

Eligibility: Healthcare Worker Participants, ages 18-45
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Healthcare Workers

Surfing | Santa Cruz, CA – Healthcare Workers

August 28, 2023 - September 2, 2023

Ride the world-famous waves of Santa Cruz, California on this week-long surfing adventure with your First Descents community! With a coastline that is part marine sanctuary, Santa Cruz offers sunny beach days and pristine wilderness that is perfect for catching waves with the incredible guides at Richard Schmidt Surf School.…

Eligibility: Healthcare Worker Participants, ages 18-45
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Healthcare Workers

Rock Climbing | Moab, Utah – Healthcare Workers

September 24, 2023 - September 29, 2023

Home to world-class desert rock climbing, the La Sal Mountains, and the Colorado River, Moab is one of the top adventure destinations in the world. With easy access to thousands of sandstone routes and views of soaring red cliffs and canyons, Moab is one of our most unique and accessible…

Eligibility: Healthcare Worker Participants, ages 18-45
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