About Us

LEAP serves people that have experienced a disruption in their lives where they have been affected by significant health issues, emotional and psychological distress, and/or social and economic adversity.  In learning to accept and adapt to their new life situation, LEAP steps in and offers a wilderness experience to accelerate their recovery progress. LEAP uses the river as a metaphor for life: it starts out simple and gentle, then flows faster and encounters more obstacles. In order to move forward, like in life, it adapts and adjusts its course.   The LEAP program acts as a catalyst for change, enabling participants to challenge themselves in whitewater kayaking, overcome fears, learn to trust in others and connect with a group of fellow survivors.  This experience has been transformative in increasing self-confidence, developing better coping skills, understanding relationship building and utilization of social support.

Since its inception in 2010, LEAP has established long-term partnerships with other non-profit organizations that serve youth and adults in Oregon. LEAP augments the specialized work of its partners by offering their communities a lifeline to the unique therapeutic benefits of the wilderness. As of 2016, LEAP has served individuals receiving support or services from New Avenues For Youth, The Dougy Center, Friends Of The Children, OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Higher Ground, and Legacy Oregon Burn Center. Nearly 140 participants from these organizations took part in LEAP programs in 2016 and 474 have been served since the organization’s launch.

WE ARE LEAP.