Cottonwood Gulch 2025 Annual Report

Cottonwood’s 2025 Annual Report:
A Year of Community, Growth, and Impact

Cottonwood’s 2025 Annual Report highlights a very special year for us as we celebrate 99 years of trekking. This year was one of deepening connections, expanding programs, and preparations for the organization’s 100th anniversary celebration in 2026.Building on decades of innovative outdoor education, this year’s report shares stories from our regional gatherings, growth in partnerships, scholarship support, and program evolution that reflect the Gulch’s long-standing mission. In this article, we break down the most meaningful insights from the Cottonwood Gulch 2025 Annual Report and what they mean for trekkers, educators, donors, and our wider community.

 

 

Stronger Community Ties Across the Country

One of the most inspiring takeaways from the 2025 report we hope you discover is our emphasis on community connection. Executive Director Jordan Stone shares insights from the eight Regional Rendezvous gatherings hosted nationwide as part of our lead up to the 100 year celebration of Cottonwood Gulch. These events featured a host of alumni from multiple decades who gathered together to reconnect, share memories, and strengthen the Gulch network ahead of the centennial celebration. These special gatherings underscore how the Gulch community spans generations and geographies and continues to support lifelong relationships rooted in outdoor experience.

 

Connections That Last a Lifetime

The report highlights also individuals like Chet Kubit, whose six decades of participation exemplify the enduring influence of Gulch experiences. Trekkers and alumni alike continue to serve as mentors, hosts, and advocates, reinforcing that the community is the thread that sustains the Gulch’s legacy.

 

Educational Impact and Programming

The 2025 report also dives into the depth of Cottonwood Gulch’s educational work we do with schools across the Southwest. Our school partnerships continue to bring students into immersive outdoor and stewardship experiences, including collaborations with Tech Leadership High School, Escuela Del Sol Montessori, and many other community schools. Our innovative school programs emphasize hands-on environmental learning and student leadership, which is part of the backbone of the Gulch’s mission to inspire empathy and connection to the natural world.

 

Stewardship and Outdoor Learning

Environmental stewardship is also one of our core values and a driving force behind our work. Field crews, Youth Conservation Corps initiatives, and student-led restoration projects highlight how the Gulch integrates place-based learning with real stewardship practice. Whether building one-rock dams or working at preserves, students learn tangible skills and land ethics that extend beyond the trail.

 

Scholarship Support and Accessibility

The Cottonwood’s 2025 Annual Report also details financial support data we know is valuable to our donors and stakeholders. Learn about the significant portion of trekkers who received scholarships or tuition support and how this outreach is a reflection of our continued commitment to access and belonging. This approach aligns with strategic efforts over recent years to make transformational outdoor education available to more families and schools and is a major cornerstone of the Gulch’s mission.

 

Looking Ahead: A Centennial Celebration

Finally, a major theme of the Cottonwood’s 2025 Annual Report is the preparation for our 100th anniversary in 2026. You can read more about the year-long celebration plans include multi-generational gatherings at Basecamp, regional events nationwide, and continued community storytelling projects that celebrate the Gulch’s century of life-changing expeditions.

 

Final Thoughts

The Cottonwood’s 2025 Annual Report isn’t just a snapshot of a year. It’s a testament to community, continuity, and purpose. From expanding partnerships to deepening educational impact and honoring alumni connections, the report affirms the Gulch’s legacy is as vibrant as ever thanks to all of you who continue to support our vision. For longtime supporters and newcomers alike, the report offers inspiration and a clear vision for the next century of outdoor learning. We look forward to celebrating this year’s successes with you through this report and at our 100th Anniversary celebration events!

 

 

Learn more about our latest programs and 100th Anniversary events.