On September 6, 2025 Education Without Walls officially launched our new program year at Carolina Beach State Park. The event brought together 24 exceptional students from Pender, Brunswick, and New Hanover Counties, including 13 new participants. Among them were a paid Leader-in-Training already shaping the future, avid readers, a future Top Chef, and adventurers with over 32 backcountry days logged. There’s a track star determined to keep his grades up (this year), a young photographer who connects from behind the lens, a budding social butterfly just breaking out of her cocoon, and two loving brothers. Threaded through this tapestry are students navigating the complexities of foster care, adoption, poverty, instability, or trauma — each one carrying a story of resilience, courage, and hope. Their journeys may be marked by challenge, but they show up with drive, heart, and an adventurous spirit.

Throughout the day, students hiked, played endless games of tag, received their EWOW journals, completed a two-mile scavenger hunt, participated in a Summit and a Communication Ed. group, ate infinite amounts of burgers/hotdogs, and relaxed into a restorative yoga session. The energy and engagement from our youth set a powerful tone for the year ahead.

Thank you for your continued support in making these transformative experiences possible. Next up Disk Golf and Beach Games in November.