Ventures In Peace Going Strong

Hello from Ventures in Peace!

We hope this message finds you well! Below are a few points that we think make Ventures in Peace unique:

Small Size: We have space for 7 young men and women over 18 and therefore there is no room for them to "hide." Because of our small size we can custom tailor the right program for each student- on one end of the spectrum is a high-functioning Aspberger's kid with a daily check list, a break from college and even computer usage, and a focus on being honest and forming relationships; on the other end of the spectrum is a young adult who goes to the University of Montana full-time and has earned (by gaining trust) a car, cell phone, lap top, and debit card.

Family: We cook and eat all our meals together (including our own children who are 2 1/2 and almost 6) and all live under one roof. This closeness allows for a real familial feel and for us to be positive role models as husband and wife, parents, and successful business partners. It shows that we are all human beings learning about life together. We also encourage regular interaction with each students' family. Initially, Steven talks with parents at least once a week and facilitates conference calls as needed.

Trust: Our number one goal for all students is for them to be honest with themselves and others at all times. With trust comes better relationships, more creative, free attention and privileges.

Mindfulness: Six mornings a week begin with Chi Gong- a great way to start the day and feel more grounded with one's self. Reflective writing assignments and reading are a big part of the curriculum to become aware of negative patterns and learn the tools to break free from old habits. Each student also participates in a workshop offered by Steven and Elissa to create goals and quiet their minds. We all work together to assess how each student is going to get the results they want in their lives.

Proximity to Missoula: Nestled on 20 acres with a 3,000 sq. ft. organic garden and small farm, it is quiet and peaceful yet only 20 minutes to Missoula and the University of Montana (UM). Many students take classes at UM or the College of Technology (a branch of UM that offers 7 vocational programs as well as an AA degree) and we definitely take advantage of the university by attending workshops, athletic events, art shows, and theater, music and dance performances. We also offer options for high school or GED completion and/or skills to find and maintain a regular job.

!Success!: Two of our former residents, who are still clients, are graduating from UM in May. When they came to us, high levels of anxiety had gotten in their way of completing college. Now almost 25- and 28-years-old, these two clients are proud of their accomplishments and how far they've come to achieve one of their biggest goals.

Life Skills: Upon graduation Ventures in Peace, residents are prepared to meet the world with tools to be responsible citizens of the world: educational success, emotional intelligence, time management, financial planning, culinary arts, strong work ethic, creating healthy relationships, good nutrition, resume building & job interviewing, and home maintenance.

Healthy Food and Exercise: 90% of the food we eat is organic and much of it comes from our garden. Students work in the garden and get a first-hand experience of growing their own food, creating meals around fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs, harvesting, and storing (whether it be canning, freezing, or drying). We believe that healthy food and exercise are the base of a healthy mind and spirit. Each resident has a membership at our local gym and exercises there at least twice a week. We also have a single track trail up to the top of a mountain in our back yard. Built by 5 residents over the course of a summer, it covers about 1 mile and rises up 1,000 feet in elevation. We love to hike and take full advantage of our surrounding mountains during all seasons.

Years of Experience: Before the creation of Ventures in Peace, Steven worked in various emotional growth boarding schools with "at-risk" teens for 27 years. Steven and Elissa worked together at an emotional growth boarding school in Western Montana (Steven for 6 years, Elissa for 4) and recognized a great need for transition, so we deliberately moved to Missoula to start Ventures in Peace in August of 2008. Together we have a combined total of 39 years of experience working with teens and young adults.

We hope this information is helpful and gives you a glimpse of our program.

Ventures in Peace exists to provide young people with continued support during their transition to adulthood, explore healthy and sustainable alternatives in the areas of energy and food production, and encourage and offer opportunities for personal and educational development with an emphasis on social and world-wide responsibility.