Thank You for Blessing Us with Adventure
Here at Hope for Opelousas, our family has much to be thankful for, especially looking back on all the years since we began in 2008. We’ve seen immense growth in our campus, our student body, and our community of supporters. We even have an extension of our family in Buffalo, New York, where our alum, Keon Coleman, was drafted to the Buffalo Bills earlier this year. The generosity and support from the coaches, team, staff, and dedicated Bills Mafia has been humbling.
One aspect of our program we are continually grateful for that is made possible because of our supporters is the yearly Adventure Crew! In 2024, we were blessed to take the students out west to see the beauty of Arizona and California.
Adventuring from Opelousas to Arizona & California
After months of preparation and training, our Adventure Crew set off from Opelousas on a journey that would take them from the familiar streets of home to the breathtaking views of Flagstaff, Arizona, and beyond. Their first stop was the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, where they hiked a six-mile stretch of the South Rim Trail. For many of our students, standing at the edge of one of the world’s wonders was the moment they began to see how vast and beautiful the world is—and to realize their place within it.
But this part of the adventure was only the beginning! From Arizona, we made our way westward to California, fulfilling a dream for many of our kids—dipping their toes into the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, we spotted dolphins and even majestic blue and fin whales, played basketball at Venice Beach, and braved the crashing waves of the Pacific. Hosted by our wonderful friends Mike and Lori Tidwell in Greenfield, we explored the breathtaking Point Lobos and strolled among the towering redwoods. We completed our trip the only way we knew how by walking across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, marking another unforgettable moment for our students.
The final chapter of our journey brought us to Little Willow Ranch in Lake Tahoe, where we experienced the perfect blend of hard work and outdoor adventure. From painting fences and clearing pastures to hanging insulation for the Tahoe Coalition for the Homeless, our crew gave back to the community in a meaningful way. And after the work was done, it was time to play! Our days were filled with adventure and growth through horseback riding, sailing, mountain biking, swimming, hiking, and even riding a mountain rollercoaster.
Creating Impact through Adventures
This trip was more than seeing new places – it built confidence, expanded horizons, and created connections. Through these experiences, our students learned the value of service, friendship, and pushing their limits. Thanks to everyone who made this possible, especially our hosts in Tahoe, Jack, Leigh Wayne, and Candie. Your friendship has created memories that will last a lifetime!
More Adventures to Come for Students
Looking forward, we are excited to have been blessed by our friends in Lake Tahoe to return for a ski trip with the high schoolers! The first time we were able to take a group of students skiing was in February 2022, and it was a life-changing experience for all involved. We are so humbled by everyone’s generosity, making it a possibility once again in January 2025.
Leading up to this trip, we are asking our supporters to sponsor a child going on the journey to cover their flights to and from Lake Tahoe. Every person who sponsors is helping tremendously. If you want to sponsor a child, you can visit https://www.hopeforopelousas.org/wings.
We truly cannot thank you all enough for the love and kindness that you show to our Hope for Opelousas family. Our focus is always to care for our students and their families. Because of you all, we get to do that.
Thank you.