CFO grant funds organization’s youth therapy program

The program, held at the Meramec Wilderness Learning Ranch near Steelville, helps youth develop character and integrity and build stronger families and communities through outdoor experiences, according to a Boys & Girls Town news release.

Outdoor experiences include backpacking trips, climbing, caving, rappelling, wilderness trips, low- and high-ropes courses, camping and outdoor education programs.

With assistance from the grant, the organization has partnered with Missouri State University’s recreation and leisure and social work departments, according to the release. Recreation and leisure assistant professor Hugh Gibson will assist with staff training and developing adventure therapy sessions; social work associate professor Joan McClennen will research and evaluate the program.

Practicum students within the MSU departments also will be able to participate in the program.