In 2005, the Michigan Out-of-Doors Youth Camp began a partnership with the Riley Foundation and SCI-Novi, which would work towards a common goal of getting youth outdoors. Since then, the Michigan Out-of-Doors Youth Camp (MOOD Youth Camp) has hosted the Riley Wilderness Youth Camp (RWYC) each summer. This program allows youth to attend camp at no cost and connect with the natural environment around them.
Campers learn about watersheds in the art barn.
This program will be available again in 2024 for 40 lucky campers. The RWYC Scholarship is available for those ages 12 to 14. Campers who receive the scholarship will attend the MOOD Youth Camp’s Hunting Heritage program. This program is a residential camp taking place July 21st – 26th. Campers stay at camp for five days and five nights and are provided with all their meals during this time.
Some activities campers participate in include archery, kayaking, survival skills, hiking, and all campers have the opportunity to complete the Michigan hunter safety course and receive their certificate. They will expand their knowledge of natural resources and leave camp with a better understanding of conservation and outdoor recreation.
Taking their hunter safety tests!
Anyone interested in this scholarship is encouraged to apply. Those who are most qualified for this scholarship are kids who meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Having not yet received a Hunter Safety Certificate
- Lack of financial resources to attend this camp or similar camp programs
- Never having been to camp before or lack of outdoor experience
- Not having an active mentor in their life to engage them in the outdoors or conservation
To apply for this scholarship, follow this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfs7oipkMIOHNPAD_Si_BWUQNzn8dWvV67rael7HNJ9hXtKAA/viewform?usp=sf_link
Applications for this scholarship are due by April 1st, 2024. Shortly after the application closes, those chosen to receive the scholarship will be notified by phone or email. Michigan United Conservation Clubs and the MOOD Youth Camp continue to be grateful for the passion shown and donations provided by the Riley Foundation and SCI-Novi to help carry out our mission of helping campers develop a passion for conservation.
For more information about SCI-Novi or the Riley Foundation, head here: https://www.scinovi.com/.