The Red Wing Shoe Foundation has been a partner with the Red Wing Environmental Learning Center (ELC) since it began in 1970. The ELC is a nonprofit organization that provides programs for Red Wing youth (and surrounding communities) to increase their appreciation and connection to the natural world. While participating in programs, students develop a wide variety of outdoor skills, increase their ability to communicate, develop teamwork, and the ability to persevere. These skills not only help them on ELC programs, but in life.
The ELC provides experiences for children and teenagers from ages 8 – 18 years old. Programs are offered on a year round basis. Activities include programs like rock climbing, cross-country skiing, canoeing, kayaking, backpacking, winter camping and biking. There are also specialized programs offered such as snowshoe construction, fly fishing, log rolling, pioneering, and orienteering. Some programs are day programs while others can be a two-week-long expedition.
The Foundation’s strong commitment to youth, education and our rich natural environment is uniquely expressed in the ELC. Since the ELC’s inception, it has received nearly $6,000,000 in direct support from the Foundation.
“I grew up in the ELC program and have spent the last 33 years as a student, Instructor Naturalist, Field Instructor, Program Director and now as the Executive Director. It has shaped and changed not only my life, but my family, friends and children’s lives. Not every young person will go on to have an outdoor related career, but ever young person is affect by this program and does share that impact with those that are around them. These people take with them not only ELC skills, but life skills. Communication, teamwork, compassion, determination, appreciation, and perseverance the list goes on and on. So your impact is extremely deep and far reaching!”
