Circumstances have conspired to bring me actively back into the realm of adventure programming. Somehow it seems that all along it was just a matter of time. This time, things are different-- compelling circumstances have brought together a compelling group of people to tackle compelling challenges. Not that my other ventures have lacked any of that, but this time around we know the how, where, when and what of what we're getting into before the fact and can really put our collective experiences together to most effectively bring about some positive outcomes. Maybe this is the good side of what maturing is all about.

It's not that my earlier ventures have been completely helter skelter in methodology. Exploring the unknown is at the core of adventure and life is dynamic-- so some amount of "seat of the pants" attitude can be ok with adventure programming. We don't intend to do away with spontaneity or our ability to learn and adapt as ALP moves forward, but we are intent on creating specialized and unique programming that is well thought out, to the point, different and fun because we believe that doing it that way will allow us to have the most impact.

Our concept is straightforward-- we identify specific groups and the issues they face related to both their personal and group lives and provide adventure based programs that are unique and allow participants insight and tools for facing those real life challenges.

There is certainly no lack of groups, teams or issues-- our first task has been deciding which ones to focus on and that has come pretty easily and quickly. The big problem was just trying not to do too much too soon. For me, the more difficult and intriguing challenge has been to develop programming that is unique and stands to give us the most bang for our energy. There are all kinds of adventure activities that have been used to great success for years by schools, summer camps, outdoor ed programs, leadership programs and corporate trainers. We're not reinventing the wheel because the wheel works. But we are combining "time proven" and new activities specifically bundled together in ways that are sure to create fresh and pertinent energy.

So, getting back to the topic at hand, I am excited to be thinking this all through and working with such an outstanding group of people toward creating truly meaningful change. The fact that this is happening at all is the subject for continued thought. For now, there are itineraries to fine tune, scenarios to envision and details to check off.