With our broad-based educational mission, there are many kinds of programs we can envision for Paraiso Nature Preserve. Below is one example, a proposal drafted in the model of a wilderness camp. 

Work Camp for Young Adults

 Our work camp for young adults with low to moderate handicaps would take place at Paraiso Nature Preserve, set in a serene wilderness in northern Mexico along the Fuerte River, yet it is only two miles from the historic colonial town of El Fuerte, Sinaloa. The Rio Fuerte drains the major canyons of Copper Canyon in the magnificent Sierra Tarahumara to the east.

 Following the work camp model, our camp will focus on developing trails and landscaping as well as the living skills necessary in primitive wilderness surroundings. A large gazebo is being constructed as an activities and performance center. In addition, because of our central location, we could incorporate any or all of the following possibilities, depending on funding and time constraints:

 ~A tour of El Fuerte’s colonial center.

~A visit to a local Indian village, including an outdoor performance of Mayo Indian dances.

~A float trip originating from Paraiso Nature Preserve, a wonderful way to appreciate the abundant birds, butterflies, and lush habitat. The boat can stop for a short walk to see ancient rock inscriptions and then continue on to dock in the town of El Fuerte.

~A description, and demonstration, of local Mayo Indian healing techniques.

~A scenic train trip into the Sierra Tarahumara for an overnight (or longer) glimpse into the deepest canyon complex in North America and into the culture and habitat of the Tarahumara Indians, including games and healing practices.

 So we could also call this a “culture camp”: Getting to know the Mexican culture and how it incorporates indigenous cultures. We can add in any number of activities, from journaling to learning simple songs in Spanish or indigenous dialects; campfires; skits and performances; straw bale construction; Mexican brick making; assemblage of art and photos for display at the Preserve. The list could be expanded based on group and/or teacher interest and expertise.

 The camp location, Paraiso Nature Preserve, is a tract of land that was purchased by the Sequoia Center for Holistic Studies (Springville, California) in winter 2005 as a place to learn, heal and meditate on the diverse habitat of the Rio Fuerte. Ownership is in the process of being transferred into the name of a Mexican nonprofit corporation, which will be responsible for a mission that includes conservation of the habitat and culture of Rio Fuerte.

 We also might look into the future, expanding the concept to include adolescents and their families. The participants of the young adult camps could utilize their experience and be counselors in an adolescent camp setting. The Paraiso Nature Preserve Board of Directors would consider adding facilities if presented with a working plan.