Why No Small Thing?
It's pretty obvious the world is changing at an unprecedented pace. Every day we hear of countries that don’t get along, leaders who break the rules and people who think anger and hate-speech will solve anything.
Smartphones and social media have significantly influenced how we spend our time and see our place in the world, particularly among young people—and not in a positive way. Since 2010, the rate of youth of mental health issues have risen by over 100%, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, addiction, and suicide.
As much as technology has given us it has taken away what social psychologist and The Anxious Generation author Jonathan Haidt calls play-based childhood: “the chance to explore, test and expand their limits, build close friendships through shared adventure, and learn how to judge risks for themselves.”
Thankfully, some things never change like how time in nature can change our nature.
Dare2Dream
In 1993, I (Hugh) lost my oldest brother Dan in a tragic mountaineering expedition on K2. Dan was an inspiration for me (still is) and it seemed only fitting to celebrate his remarkable life by creating something that, had he had the chance would have created. Shortly after his death, friends and family came together to create a small foundation in memory of Dan that operated Dare2Dream, a youth leadership camp on Jedediah Island. For one week we would turn off our cell phones and get turned on to camping, sea kayaking, hiking, and living and a community. It was magic. To this day, I still hear from youth (now in their 30’s) who took part.
Dream2gether
When Donna and I met we knew we wanted to give back to our community and make a difference. We started by serving on non-profit boards and doing community work where we live and abroad. Creating the No Small Thing endowment fund was an extension of our volunteer work and our vision for leading an extraordinary life. For me (Hugh) it was a way to bring my love of nature and life as a guide and adventurer together with a celebration of my brother Dan.
Why outdoors
Nothing compares to the feeling of the wind on your face, the smell of a spring on a forest walk, or the magic of a sunset painting a rainbow across the evening sky. That’s nature. And it’s as natural as a smile, a hug from a friend, and the thrill of doing something for the first time.
Access to nature and the outdoors is essential for healthy child development; yet one in four kids are missing out. They will never experience the kind of outdoor pursuits you and I enjoyed like cycling, paddling, climbing, skiing - even hiking.
“All mammals need free play, and lots of it, to wire up their brains during childhood to prepare them for adulthood.” Jonathan Haidt
You matter
We believe that even small things can change the world. And that’s why we are inviting you to help kids - especially vulnerable kids - get outdoors, get challenged, and get exposed to a world outside their screens.
No Small Thing supports programs that combine outdoor challenges with developing team skills. Our goal is to open the door for youth to get outdoors.
We hope you will join us.
