Explore Austin empowers youth to reach their full potential through mentoring, leadership, and outdoor adventure.
89%
of our youth appreciate nature
and being outdoors
82%
believe they can make a positive
impact on their community
100%
believe their Mentors believe in them
Our Method
Long-Term Mentoring
Explore Austin uses caring and committed Mentors to help Explorers will see beyond societal or cultural limitations, be exposed to different jobs and create a new vision for their own success.
Nature
Explore Austin uses nature to teach compassion, humility, and self-care which in turn helps combat depression and anxiety.
Team-Based Adventure
Explore Austin uses team-based adventure to foster relationship building and build leadership skills.
ACES Framework
Explore Austin uses a unique model called ACES which stands for Action Oriented, Courageous, Excellent Teammate, Strong Communicator to help Explorers understand the qualities needed to be a leader.
Our Promise
1,300 hours per child per mentor
Explorers begin in the sixth grade and our volunteer Mentors stay with them through high school graduation and beyond into their adult lives. Explore Austin makes a six-year commitment to each child accepted into the program.
107
TRIPS TAKEN
340,000
MENTORING HOURS
280
ACTIVE EXPLORERS
93%
MENTOR RETENTION RATE
Get Involved
Become a Mentor
Make a difference in the lives of AUstin youth through activities such as camping, hiking, and outdoor exploration.
Donate
Just $25 provides one full Saturday Challenge for one Explorer. Any donation makes an impact!