Trail Life USA (TrailLifeUSA.com), the largest Christ-centered, boy-focused scout-type organization in the country, has emphasized the value of the great outdoors since its inception. Trail Life’s mission is to guide generations of courageous young men to honor God, lead with integrity, serve others, and experience outdoor adventure.
The realization that natural spaces, parks and playgrounds are important for the mental health of children comes as no surprise to Trail Life. Mark Hancock, CEO of Trail Life USA, holds two master’s degrees in the mental health field and spent a number of years in private practice.
“It seems much of Jesus ministry occurred in the outdoors,” said Hancock. “Stories about fish, birds, boats, seeds, seas, and trees abound. Often in Scripture, we witness Jesus removing himself from the bustle of daily life to escape to the wilderness and connect with his father. Luke 5:16 says that ‘Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray.’ In Matthew 14:23, after he dismisses the crowds, Jesus ‘went up on the mountain by himself to pray’ and connect with his father. It was in the wilderness that Jesus was able to listen more clearly, gain new insights, and find courage and strength to fulfill the will of his Father.
“Away from daily concerns, cell phone distraction, social media interaction, and video game pseudo-satisfaction is a real world of wonder — a world of adventure and exploration, where crickets chirp, campfires crackle, stars twinkle, freshly caught fish simmer, and pocketknives whittle.”
Hancock continued, “As boys and men gather around the campfire and stories begin to be shared, truth comes to life and boys begin to ‘get it.’ The Bible is such a practical book, and at Trail Life, we talk about the Six Essential Concepts of a Christian Worldview which are solid, tangible concepts boys can grasp. Boys need a venue like Trail Life where they can rub shoulders with men, where leadership can be tested, where faith can be experienced, and truth can come to life.”
Trail Life’s unique program is spreading rapidly across the nation. Trail Life recently celebrated its 1,000th Troop, with tens of thousands of boys and their families being positively impacted by the Trail Life message. Through tried-and-true methodology, Trail Life offers boy-focused, adventure-driven solutions delivered in the context of a Christian worldview that encourage boys to embrace what makes them unique and build strong relationships with other boys, mentors, and most importantly, Christ.
Trail Life USA has received praise from some of today’s top Christian voices, including Focus on the Family, Franklin Graham, James Dobson, Mike Huckabee, Alex and Stephen Kendrick, Family Life, Promise Keepers, the American Family Association, and many others.
Trail Life USA is the premier national character development organization for young men, producing godly and responsible husbands, fathers, and citizens. Trail Life’s mission is to guide generations of courageous young men to honor God, lead with integrity, serve others, and experience outdoor adventure. Troops exist in all 50 states and are growing as Trail Life USA expands around the country. Find a Troop today, or Start a Troop in your community. Find out more at TrailLifeUSA.com.
Trail Life USA’s K-12 program centers on outdoor experiences that build a young man’s skills. A robust awards program motivates young men to grow on a personal level to become role models and leaders among their peers. Living the Trail Life USA is a journey established on timeless values derived from the Bible.
