CORE is accepting new students for Fall 2025! Read more
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CORE aims to empower youth through transformational outdoor experiences that cultivate a spirit of personal growth, adventure, environmental stewardship, and leadership; inspiring a lifelong connection to nature and outdoor exploration while equipping young people with the skills and confidence to lead future generations.
CORE is a non-profit organization based in Morganton, North Carolina, founded in 2024 by Whisper Smith, Jacob Cioffoletti, and a passionate group of families dedicated to fostering positive change. Inspired by the transformative impact that outdoor recreation and education had on their children and themselves, CORE was created to provide sustainable and accessible outdoor programming for youth to benefit the entire community. Through engaging young people in outdoor activities, CORE strengthens bonds within families, building a supportive network that enhances everyone’s experience. These relationships not only enrich the lives of students but also contribute to a stronger, more vibrant community where families collaborate, share resources, and help shape the leaders of tomorrow.
We’re committed to making our programs accessible financially, physically, and emotionally for our community. We offer need-based scholarships, flexible payment plans, carpooling support, and free gear lending to help remove as many barriers as possible for families. While our programs are open and welcoming to all, we place a special focus on creating space for those who may need a little extra help breaking into the outdoors, such as girls, women, and participants from lower-income households.
We strive to foster a culture where every student, participant, or volunteer feels safe, respected, and valued, regardless of race, color, religion, identity, national origin, experience level, or economic background. Everyone deserves the chance to connect with nature, and we work hard to make that possible.
Highlights From Our Adventures
