Once upon a time…a friend reached out and asked for help. A decision was made to answer the call. An idea was formed, a plan was developed, and an unforgettable experience occurred. We called it the “guide exchange”, which almost immediately transformed into “adult summer camp”.
One of our AdventureCareers.Fun founding members, Micah, was consulting with Zip Lost Pines and knew that there were not enough guides to successfully staff spring break (which happens to be one of the busiest weeks of the year). She began to reach out to industry friends, old and new, to explore interest in joining in a collaborative week with humans who have a wide variety of skill sets. Housing, travel arrangements and meal planning began for individuals arriving from all parts of the country. More than 12 professionals traveled to Cedar Creek, Texas for this experiment.
Anything is possible for those who believe in the power of support...
Day one, after the meet and greet – Local Operating Procedures training was conducted and the traveling professionals were acquainted with the site and operations. Day two, everyone was assigned to their roles (guides, guest ambassadors, shuttle drivers and more) and took to the course!
It was amazing how things started to fall into place and how much fun everyone had by being a part of the experience. Spring storm watching, bluebonnet photography, group dinners by the fire, and summer camp style lodging fostered the bond which only grew stronger. By the end of the week, the traveling guides had integrated seamlessly with the local staff to accomplish a successful week, both financially and from a guest experience perspective.
A mixture of energy, blended to make the perfect dynamic and spawned the idea that Guide Exchange could be duplicated with the right strategy and planning...
And so, as the Texas Sun (ode to Leon Bridges here) set on the spring break week, Adventure Careers (dot Fun) began to really percolate in our brains. Fast forward 6 months to the end of summer and five of those industry professionals, who helped make Adult Summer Camp a success, made a commitment to keep the momentum going. It was agreed, we would combine our resources and give back, help others find their paths, in a formal (yet fun) and rewarding way. Our goal is to support this amazing industry that has been so good to us over so many years, by helping others.
With Gratitude,
Bee, JT, Leigh, Micah and Michelle
