Celebrate the Outdoors in Birmingham with a Community Cookout!
Birmingham, get ready for some fun in the sun! Big City Mountaineers (BCM), a fantastic national organization dedicated to helping youth connect with nature, is throwing a Community Cookout this Sunday, November 17th, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the lovely Railroad Park. This event marks the exciting conclusion of BCM’s very first program season right here in our vibrant city!
Meet Nature Lovers and Educators
This casual and inviting cookout is more than just food; it’s a golden chance for everyone interested in the great outdoors to meet and chat with educators and outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re eager to discover what BCM is all about and learn how they are changing lives one outdoor adventure at a time, this is your moment! Plus, if you want to join in on the fun, it’s super simple—just RSVP here to save your spot!
Making Waves—BCM’s Mission
Founded almost 35 years ago, BCM has been all about giving youth, particularly those from disinvested communities, incredible hiking and paddling experiences to help cultivate important life skills and foster a sense of community. This year in Birmingham has been their big debut in the South, and they are already making waves!
Throughout the summer, BCM successfully served over 60 young people from the Birmingham area, taking them to beautiful spots like Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve, Oak Mountain State Park, Cheaha Wilderness, and beyond. It’s been an eye-opening experience for these teens. Many shared how much they treasured their time away from screens and other everyday distractions, revealing newfound strengths and problem-solving skills they never realized they had!
Participants Share Heartfelt Reflections
Margaret Cartner from BCM shared heartwarming feedback from participants. “Students recorded how much they appreciated time to connect with their peers outside of school and without technology, overcoming challenges they didn’t know they were capable of.” How amazing is that?
They also gained a fresh appreciation for the little things we often take for granted—like warm showers and comfy beds! It’s incredible how a little time in nature can shift our perspective, right?
Join the BCM Family
This Community Cookout isn’t just about food and fun; it’s also about expanding the BCM family! They are on the lookout for volunteers and individuals who want to be part of this exciting movement. If you love the outdoors and are passionate about helping youth develop, they want you on board! As Cartner noted, “We are in a pinch for instructors but actively recruiting in the community for individuals who are passionate about the outdoors and youth development. We are hiring!”
Get Involved!
One incredible way to dive into the BCM experience next year is by signing up for their upcoming Hybrid Wilderness First Responder course taking place in Montevallo at the beginning of January 2025. This is a fantastic opportunity to enhance your skills and further engage with BCM’s mission.
Final Thoughts
So, mark your calendars and bring your appetite! Whether you’re a seasoned nature buff or just curious about what BCM has to offer, this Community Cookout is a perfect chance to get involved, meet like-minded folks, and celebrate the beauty of the great outdoors. Come on out this Sunday at Railroad Park, and let’s make some memories together!
