When you spend a lot of time together as a unit, it’s easy for routines to feel repetitive. That’s why getting out into the community matters—not just for fun, but for growth. Recently, some youth and staff in Special Needs 15 (SN15) planned a unit outing that brought everyone together through roller skating, rock climbing, and other team-building activities. These outings aren’t “just trips.” They’re opportunities to practice real-life skills in real time—while building connection, confidence, and community.

Why outings like this matter in a CARE environment

In a CARE-focused setting, the goal isn’t simply to keep youth busy—it’s to create experiences that support safety, belonging, and healthy development. Active community outings like roller skating and rock climbing naturally reinforce key CARE-aligned outcomes:

• Connection and belonging: Doing something new together changes unit dynamics. Youth see each other (and staff) differently when everyone’s learning side-by-side.

• Confidence-building: Skills-based activities deliver quick wins. One lap without falling. One extra hold on the wall. One “I didn’t think I could do that.”

• Emotional regulation in motion: Active recreation is a practical way to practice coping skills—breathing through frustration, trying again after a mistake, and managing adrenaline in a safe environment.

• Healthy risk-taking: Rock climbing is the perfect metaphor: it’s challenging, structured, and supported. Youth can stretch their comfort zones while staying safe and supervised.

• Pro-social skills: Taking turns, giving encouragement, sharing space, and celebrating others’ progress are all embedded in the experience.

Roller skating: resilience, laughter, and momentum

Roller skating is one of those activities that looks simple—until you put skates on. It’s awkward at first. It’s humbling. And it’s a powerful way to practice perseverance without making it feel like “work.”

For SN15, the rink became a space where:

• Youth supported each other after spills

• Staff modeled calm coaching and positive energy

• Everyone had the chance to reset and try again

Sometimes the biggest accomplishment is showing up, getting back up, and finishing the lap.

Rock climbing: trust, courage, and one step at a time

Rock climbing adds another layer: planning, problem-solving, and trusting the process. Youth practiced focusing on what’s in front of them—one grip, one step, one decision at a time. The best part? Encouragement becomes contagious. When one person pushes through a hard moment, the whole group feels it. That kind of shared success strengthens a unit long after the outing ends.

What staff noticed (and why it’s worth repeating)

Outings like this often bring out strengths that don’t always show up in day-to-day routines. Youth who are quieter may take the lead. Youth who struggle with frustration may surprise themselves with patience. Youth who are hesitant may become the biggest encouragers once they feel safe.

For staff, it’s also a chance to reinforce:

• Positive communication.

• Clear expectations

• Consistent support

• Relationship-building in a natural setting

The takeaway

SN15’s active outing was a reminder that community-based experiences can be both fun and deeply meaningful. Roller skating, rock climbing, and similar activities help youth practice persistence, build confidence, and strengthen relationships—while creating memories that reinforce a sense of belonging. That’s the heart of CARE: creating environments and experiences where young people can grow—supported, connected, and seen.