Grand Canyon Youth

less than other river trips. Participants typically pay only 25-40% of actual cost of the programs; the rest is funded by grants, special events, and contributions. Additionally, in 2024 over $124,000 of direct financial aid was awarded to 348 youth participants, to help ensure cost is not a deterrent to participating. GCY strives to connect underrepresented & underserved youth to the river, including Indigeneous youth, survivors of trauma, and youth who would otherwise never have such an opportunity. The focus of GCYs programs continues to be the educational and community service curriculum, while valuing the teachable moments that occur along the river, where learning is not an abstract concept but

something concrete & hands on. During 2024, youth engaged in 13,300 hours of community service, were encouraged to earn a portion of the trip cost, and participated in educational projects related to the culutural or natural history of the Southwest. A community science project is included on nearly every expedition. GCY is proud of & grateful for its collaborative relationships with the U.S. Department of the Interior (BLM, Grand Canyon National Park, U.S. Geological Survey), Native American Tribes, supportive commercial river outfitters, various nonprofit organizations & dozens of schools & youth groups. (see continuation at Schedule O)