Expedition Therapy Students Win Ironman Volunteer Service Award

Expedition Therapy students and staff recently won a volunteer service award in the course of performing a service project at the Ironman 70.3 Race in St. George, Utah, held on Saturday, May 4, 2013. The Expedition Therapy group's station won the award for Cleanest Aid Station, as they provided water and nutrition to runners along the 13.1-mile running segment of the race, which followed the 1.2-mile swimming and the 56-mile biking segments. Service projects like this are an integral part of the Expedition Therapy curriculum.

"We are pleased to have been able to participate in this world-famous event for the second year in a row," said Wes Light, Expedition Therapy Director of Adventure Education. "Our students went above and beyond, and it is very gratifying to be recognized for that."

"In addition to handing out cups of water, energy gel and electrolyte replacements, the Expedition Therapy students had the idea to give the runners the option of having water poured on them to cool them off. This was really appreciated by the runners. In fact, the race administration noticed how well received this was and is considering adding it as a hydration tactic for next year's race."

"Our group also excelled in trash control, collecting most water cups on the first bounce after the runners discarded them. They even pulled weeds and raked the median strip where the station was located."

"Overall, we believe that the impact of Expedition Therapy students' participation in the Ironman St. George extended to both the race participants and the students," added Aaron Wilson, Expedition Therapy Executive Director. "The idea of selflessly serving others for five hours in the hot sun was a unique experience for many of our students. They now understand what service means, as well as what it feels like. This is an essential part of being an adult and fully participating in the world."

Expedition Therapy is a structured, intensive, hands-on, experiential, solution-focused experience that unfolds in the etched mountain pathways, brilliantly carved canyons, and striking topography of the desert southwest. The Expedition Therapy Team specializes in working with emerging young adults age 18+ who have yet to find a productive and intentional path in life. The Expedition Therapy Team takes pride in the process of engagement and relationship building, providing unconditional acceptance in a culturally diverse setting. Our Therapeutic Expedition Mentality� is an empowering option for adults who want to learn how to create a balance in their lives, stay sober, and reconnect with their authentic selves. At Expedition Therapy, we help young adults discover the inner focus, direction and motivation they need to move themselves forward in their lives.