ETC Helps Those Disabled and Disadvantaged Enjoy the Outdoors

Written By: Farah Vitale

ETC is a program that continues to grow! People with disabilities and disadvantaged kids got to take a whitewater rafting trip across Reno and Verdi last Friday. The group, Environmental Traveling Companions (ETC), organized a day full of adventure which included whitewater rafting. The event started at Crystal Peak Park in Verdi and finished at Mayberry Park in Reno.

ETC allows advantaged and disabled people to safely enjoy outdoor activities.

ETC has been going since 1972. They has share outdoor adventures with disadvantaged youth and people of all ages. This includes those with visual or hearing-impairments, physical or developmental disabilities, and life-threatening illnesses. They also have fundraising adventures for the general public and corporations to raise awareness of their mission. They work with agencies, schools, and people of all abilities.

Every year, more than 2,100 people join ETC. They get to raft whitewater rivers, ski alpine meadows, kayak the waters of the Golden Gate and Tomales Bay, while building leadership skills. Volunteers at ETC are given expert training in wilderness skills, first aid, disability/diversity awareness, and environmental education. Every volunteer adds something different to the adventures while getting to learn something new themselves. Through these activities, our participants overcome their personal limitations along with freedom and confidence. They get to better understand themselves in relation to others and the environment. To volunteer, you will need to complete an application and then participate in a group interview to make sure you’e the right fit for the position for a truly unique and memorable adventure.


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