From our campers…

“I got introduced to Fireside Adventures at 15 and have continued with them for the past six years.  It all started in the summer of 2018 with a 3-week expedition in British Columbia followed by 3-weeks paddling the Yukon River. Since then, I have done numerous expeditions, most recently World Bound Japan. Fireside has created several volunteer internship opportunities for me throughout this journey. I’m proud to say that I have advanced from participant to Junior Fieldschool Instructor for Vancouver Outdoor School. My growth has been made possible by Fireside’s dynamite staff, including Jeff Willis, Liam Barnes, and Lenaya Sampson, among others. Thanks for it all! Congratulations on your 20th Anniversary.”

“Fireside has brought me to explore nature in the Yukon, BC and Italy. Fireside has ignited a motivation in me that I never knew I had. It motivated me to work as a staff with them, to explore nature, and to pursue a career in saving what I'd been exposed to. I've improved myself, and I truly believe I am a better person because of Fireside.”

“When I started the journey, I’d never thought it would be one of the most beautiful memories I’ve had. During the camping, I learned and experienced a lot of things like hiking, canoeing and how to protect food from animals. I also made new friends and did so many activities that is quite hard to do in my normal life. The camp gave me some challenges that I would never know where my limitation is if I haven't been through those. After all, I just want to say thanks to all the people there for helping me. Those experiences have matured me greatly."

“Fireside Adventures is aaaaaaaaamazing. Fireside Adventures is a great experience that fills you with new skills and great souvenirs. Surrounded by great people and by beautiful decors, this trip will stay in your mind forever. The atmosphere, the environment, the technical and psychological skills (have you ever tried a 72 hours solo? that's what I mean by psychological, mental, and spiritual experience!) you develop there are outstanding.”

"The Fireside programs were life-changing on so many levels. The programs have also been a source of lasting friendships. My first program was three years ago, and I am still in touch with the awesome people I met there! I would recommend the programs to anyone who wants to try something new."

“Fireside Adventures has changed my life forever. Through [my experiences at] Fireside, I realized I can accomplish anything I put my mind to. When I first went to Fireside, I was a sixteen year-old who was scared and lacking self confidence. My aunt called me up one summer/’s evening and told me about Jeff and Fireside Adventures. She told me “It's going to be a once in a life time experience, you will regret it if you don’t go, and you have less then 24 hours to decide if you want to go”. So I said yes and in less than a week, I was on the trip and enjoyed every moment of it. Every year since then I go back to Fireside and it continues to challenge me and lets me grow. I started as a camper and now I am going to be a Junior Leader this summer. Whenever I am sad, angry, or unsure I think about Fireside and how far I have come and I am able to overcome anything that life throws at me."

“When I signed up for my first trip, I shortly after told Jeff I wasn't going to attend. Jeff left my name on the list, confident that I would be attending and have now attended 4 programs. These programs opened a door to a whole new world. My exploration through Canada also set me on an exploration into myself. I found more and more things I was capable of doing when I attended and taking from those experiences what I learned and continue to set the bar higher. I am confident to say that there is nothing in my life that I cannot accomplish; I can do anything that my heart desires. Thank you Jeff." 

From our parents/guardians…

“Fireside Adventures has been life altering for our son. Every time he returns home from an outdoor expedition with Fireside, he glows with big pride at his achievements. He learns about teamwork, nature, living in the great outdoors, indigenous peoples, climate change and more. Notably, he gains a deeper understanding of himself and his place in the world. In short, our son is thriving. We attribute this to the exceptional Fireside staff. Not only do they genuinely care about each participant, but they also nudge their participants to grow beyond their comfort zone. The emphasis on outdoor education is superior and a dream come true for serving our son. A big THANK YOU to Fireside and all their staff who are the difference that makes the difference. CONGRATULATIONS on your 20th Anniversary!”

“In this safe, exciting and enriching program my daughter was given many opportunities to enhance the skills she already posses as a young aboriginal lady and to work toward the leader I hope she will one day be. This was a great experience for my child to participate in.”

My three nephews had quite a summer with Fireside Adventures. They had the chance to experience Canada's beautiful nature, make new friends along the way, and learned things they never would’ve from their home country. Most noticeably, they are much more confident after their journey. Thanks for their awesome adventure Fireside!”

“My daughter has been with Fireside Adventures for 2 years in a row, now entering her 3rd. After each journey, she returns home with exciting stories, new wilderness survival skills, strong leadership skills, and a keener sense of self. Your program has provided her with friendships and memories to last a lifetime. I am so grateful for the opportunity, and for your dedication and amazing relationship with the kids! I definitely recommend Fireside to any young person out there.”