Impact & Reach

A Quick Review of 2025

Testimonials & Impact Statements

During one of our Computer & Technology camp weeks, themed “Game Shows,” we had an inspiring spark for one of our Gr 5 boys. By the end of day one, our instructor reached out to share info with a camper about getting their own micro:bit. This camper had been coming to camp for a few years, but was now in an older group to build more advanced projects with the tech. This camper was so excited and intrigued about the micro:bit that he came to camp on Tuesday asking for the code printout from the day before because he had purchased one for himself at home. To our surprise, on Thursday he came to camp with a USB and a new code he had built, looking for advice from the instructor on how to improve it!

“The impact of Destination Exploration reaches well beyond high school academics. Their programs encourage lifelong learning, inspire curiosity, and help students develop the confidence to pursue opportunities they may never have considered before. They are helping build future leaders, innovators, and professionals while ensuring that students remain connected to their culture and community along the way. The long-term benefits of this work cannot be overstated. By helping students see themselves reflected in STEM fields, while simultaneously strengthening their connection to Blackfoot culture and traditions, Destination Exploration is contributing to stronger communities and brighter futures for generations to come.” – Teacher from F.P. Walshe School in Fort Macleod

“I’m going to go to [ULethbridge] someday to be an astronaut.” – camper

“Being an engineer has always been my lifelong dream, and today I get to be one.” - camper

“My daughter absolutely loved this camp! It had such a great theme, and the programming provided a chance for her to explore interests across the sciences (chem, biotech, robotics, etc.) - super cool! She also came home asking inquiry questions! We are now looking into how individuals with prosthetics may be able to control them (depending on the prosthetic and injury). The fact she is coming home curious is one of the best parts :) You all are crushing it!! Great work!!!” – Parent of camper

“Thank you so much for organizing such a wonderful camp. I really like the activities that involve collaboration with other university departments (such as the art dept this year and other departments in previous years). She can't wait for next year's camp already; she also hopes to be able to volunteer next year.” — Parent of camper

Finding Confidence Through STEM

As a camper, Oliver discovered something that changed how he saw himself: he was capable of far more than he had imagined. After hearing messages like “math isn’t for everyone” in school, he began to question his own abilities. At Destination Exploration, he found an environment where he could explore, experiment and discover that he was smart, capable and full of potential.

Since then, Oliver has grown from camper to high school intern to instructor, building confidence and learning something new every day. As an instructor, he has the opportunity to be a positive male role model for young people and inspire them to believe in themselves. He considers it an honour when campers choose to spend time with him, a reminder of the meaningful connections that make this work so rewarding.

Oliver has also discovered the often-overlooked connections between fine arts and STEM. Through theatre, creativity and a little silliness, he shows young people that they can love the arts, embrace science and be unapologetically themselves. For Oliver, DE is more than a place to learn. It is a place where young people can discover their abilities, build confidence and see new possibilities for who they can become.

Discovering a Passion for Learning and Teaching

Elora’s journey with Destination Exploration began as a young camper and has grown into a lasting connection with the program. From volunteering to becoming a high school intern and now an instructor, DE has been a place where she has discovered her strengths, explored her passions and grown in confidence, both in STEM and as a person.

One of her favourite memories is a week spent building and programming a robot at summer camp. After days of hard work, the final demonstration did not go quite as planned, and one robot broke in half. Yet Elora remembers less the setback than the pride she felt in creating something almost entirely from scratch. Thanks to instructors who encouraged her to take risks and try something new, she learned that an experience’s value isn't always measured by the final result. Sometimes, the greatest achievement is discovering what you are capable of doing.

When Elora aged out of youth programming, she knew she wanted to stay involved. Through volunteering and working as an intern, she discovered a passion for teaching. She developed skills in classroom leadership, working with children, sharing her enthusiasm for STEM, and so much more. DE also helped her navigate moments of self-doubt and build the confidence to keep moving forward.

Today, Elora is studying Early Years Education at the University of Lethbridge and brings her experiences full circle as a DE instructor. 

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