Empowered by Nature: Trail Building & Forging Paths at Circle Camp

This spring, Circle Program's TAP and Teen girls, led by the dedicated Jamie Capaul, are building enduring trails at Circle Camp. Capaul, who has served Circle for eleven years from mentor to TAP Director, is driven by a passion to empower young women through nature, a passion sparked by her own late introduction to the outdoors in New Hampshire. This trail project embodies her commitment, shaping both the landscape and the participants.

Capaul highlights the practical skills and resulting confidence the girls gain, noting the importance of "learning how to use tools and feeling confident." The project also teaches them the complexities of wilderness construction, including environmental awareness, navigating with minimal impact, and respecting local ecosystems.

A key aspect for Capaul is the connection between nature and personal growth. She believes that immersing girls in the natural world offers a vital escape from technology, fostering deeper connections with themselves, peers, and the environment. In the quiet of nature, they discover inner strength and resilience.

Capaul envisions this project as a foundation for the girls' future exploration and independence, hoping they will "gain confidence in understanding trails and will use that knowledge to go beyond our camp." This initiative will leave a lasting mark, both physically on the land and in the lives of the girls, empowering them to confidently navigate their own paths for generations to come.