The Great Outdoor Initiative began in July of 2019 with a focus on facilitating mental and physical well-being, creating new experiences with opportunities to share and develop friendships. During outings we have an opportunity to speak with participants about their wants and needs while we encourage exercise and healthy eating habits. Since the Great Outdoor Initiative Program began the group has experienced many activities with partner agencies and businesses.

The program participants have enjoyed a Summer Concert at Okemo Mountain, participated in the Rutland Halloween Parade with the Kiwanis Club, Canoeing, Kayaking, and Skiing with Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, Mentor Connector Bowling Tournament, a visit to Billings Farm and Museum, an annual Barn Picnic at the Duffy family home in Poultney, participate annually in National Night Out with Rutland Recreation and other community organizations, an annual Family Fun Day at the Pittsford Recreation Center with the Kiwanis Club, and went on an Urban Legend Walk and had a Summer Splash cookout and lawn games at Bomoseen State Park Pavillion with our newest partner, Come Alive Outside.