# Hale Education > From camp stories to classroom tips, gear recommendations, and more, our blog offers nature-based reading for parents, teachers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. --- ## Pages - [Reach New Heights](https://hale.education/give/reach-new-heights/): I'd like to help Hale reach new heights in 2025! Lending a hand this spring will help us expand access... - [Learn, Grow, Play](https://hale.education/give/learn-grow-play/): Yes, I'd like to help children learn, grow, and play. Your contribution will support unique and impactful experiential learning opportunities... - [Consulting](https://hale.education/consulting/): Hale employs several veteran school leaders who are available for consulting. Past consulting projects include: Facilitating a design team that... - [Professional Coaching](https://hale.education/coaching/): Hale employs several veteran school leaders who are available for one-on-one professional coaching. Past coaching clients include: A department... - [Nature for All](https://hale.education/nature-for-all/): Nature for All At Hale, we embrace nature’s potential to inspire learning, stimulate growth, and promote healing. In that spirit,... - [Media Inquiries](https://hale.education/media-inquiries/): Media Inquiries Contact Greg FreedDirector of Marketing & Communicationsgfreed@hale. education About Hale Hale Education, Inc. is a private nonprofit widely... - [Financial Aid](https://hale.education/financial-aid/): Investing in the Future Financial Aid Hale strives to be a place where people from all backgrounds and circumstances have... - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://hale.education/faq/): Frequently Asked Questions Is Hale open to the public? Yes. While Hale is privately owned and operated as an independent... - [Mountain Biking](https://hale.education/visit/mountain-biking/): Mountain Biking Mountain bikers of all ages are drawn to Hale’s rugged, varied terrain just miles from Boston’s city line.... - [Rentals](https://hale.education/rentals/): Rentals From weddings to corporate retreats, Hale is the perfect spot for your next event. Inquire Now We offer several... - [Work at Hale](https://hale.education/employment/): Work at Hale Join the adventure—we’d love to consider you for a position on our team! Learn more about the... - [Permanent Employment Opportunities](https://hale.education/employment/permanent/): Open Positions - [Contract, Casual, and Seasonal Employment](https://hale.education/employment/seasonal/): Contract, Casual, and Seasonal Employment APPLY VOLUNTEER About Seasonal Employment Hale offers outdoor recreation programs for children and families! If... - [Make Your Gift](https://hale.education/give/): Make Your Gift Impactful change is only possible through the generosity of people like you. Thank you for your support.... - [Volunteer](https://hale.education/volunteer/): Volunteer Hale’s High School Volunteer Program develops leadership skills as volunteers work closely with seasonal staff members to meaningfully impact... - [Boston Marathon Team](https://hale.education/boston-marathon-team/): Boston Marathon Team Hale is honored to be a member of the Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program.... - [Contact](https://hale.education/contact/): Contact Office 80 Carby StreetWestwood, MA 02090 Phone (781) 326-1770 Hours Our office is open from 9 AM–5 PM, Monday... - [Partner Schools](https://hale.education/partners/schools/): Our Partner Schools As Official Partner Schools of Hale, 10 institutions are able to amplify the impact of their academic... - [Partner Camps](https://hale.education/partners/camps/): Our Partner Camps As Official Partner Camps of Hale, four agencies are able to staff and operate their own summer... - [Impact Partners](https://hale.education/partners/): Our Impact Partners Hale has believed in the power of partnership for more than a century. By building and sustaining... - [Our Board](https://hale.education/board/): Board of Directors Beth Ann Amendt Yuko Handa Kait Rogers Laura Amico Onika Jenkins Kenneth Sallale Tamatha Bibbo, President Michelle... - [Hale Magazine](https://hale.education/magazine/): Thank You to Our Readers We’re able to offer this annual publication free of charge thanks to the generosity of... - [Community Solar Farm](https://hale.education/conservation-sustainability/solar-farm/): Community Solar Garden Hosting a Community Solar Garden is one way Hale is doing its part. You can track our... - [Campaign for Kids, Conservation, and Community](https://hale.education/conservation-sustainability/conservation-restriction/): Campaign for Kids, Conservation, and Community We met our fundraising goal for conservation in 2024 and are now in the... - [Conservation & Sustainability](https://hale.education/conservation-sustainability/): Current Initiatives Today, Hale is: Ongoing Projects Our Community Solar Garden’s array of panels, situated on a capped landfill, allows... - [Our Mission](https://hale.education/about/mission/): Our Mission Our belief statement (commonly referred to as our mission) guides us in realizing our founder's vision. Hale believes... - [Our History](https://hale.education/about/history/): Our History From Indigenous peoples who first stewarded the land to modern-day programs that foster outdoor learning, our shared history... - [About Hale Education](https://hale.education/about/): Uniting People, Place, and Purpose About Hale Hale connects people from all walks of life with the outdoors, inviting generations... - [Our Team](https://hale.education/team/): Meet Our Team Hale's inclusive community warmly welcomes everyone. We invite you to learn about the diverse backgrounds and experiences... - [Our Impact](https://hale.education/about/impact/): Our Impact Robert Sever Hale wished for us to engage with this space, and each other, in ways that are... - [Visitor Guidelines](https://hale.education/visit/): Visitor Guidelines Hale is open to the public for passive recreation every day, all year. Visitor guidelines, trail maps, and... - [Blog](https://hale.education/blog/): Hale Blog Join The Hale Education Community Today Contact us Donate - [Home](https://hale.education/): Uniting People, Place, and Purpose through nature, education, and recreation Welcome to Hale Education We're a private nonprofit widely recognized... --- ## Posts - [Caring for Our Water: How You Can Help Protect Noanet Pond and the Charles River Watershed](https://hale.education/blog/caring-for-our-water-how-you-can-help-protect-noanet-pond-and-the-charles-river-watershed/): Water is one of our region’s most precious and vulnerable resources. At Hale, we’re fortunate to steward Noanet Pond, a... - [How To Pack the Perfect Picnic for a Day at Hale](https://hale.education/blog/how-to-pack-the-perfect-picnic-for-a-day-at-hale/): Mid-August is the sweet spot of summer. The days are long, the evenings are warm, and there’s still time to... - [5 Tips for Hiking With Young Kids](https://hale.education/blog/5-tips-for-hiking-with-young-kids/): How to Turn Family Outdoor Adventures into Lasting Memories Hiking with young kids isn’t about logging miles or reaching impressive... - [If We Want Young People to Care About the Climate, Start by Getting Them Outside](https://hale.education/blog/if-we-want-young-people-to-care-about-the-climate-start-by-getting-them-outside/): Ask young people how they feel about climate change, and you’ll hear fear, frustration, even despair. That concern is backed... - [5 Ways to Enjoy Summer at Hale](https://hale.education/blog/5-ways-to-enjoy-summer-at-hale/): Summer is in full swing, and there’s no better place to explore, cool off, and connect with nature than Hale.... - [Why an Outdoors-Based Summer Camp Stays With Kids for Life](https://hale.education/blog/why-an-outdoors-based-summer-camp-stays-with-kids-for-life/): For many families, summer camp is about filling time. But at Hale, it’s about something much bigger. It’s about giving... - [Hale Education Hosts Summer Solstice Swim and S'mores](https://hale.education/blog/hale-education-hosts-summer-solstice-swim-and-smores/): Arriving at Hale’s South Beach in Westwood, the sounds of splashing overlaid children’s joyful screaming as the sun began to... - [Five Tips for a Successful Summer](https://hale.education/blog/five-tips-for-a-successful-summer/): The transition from school to summer can be a big one, not just for kids, but for parents and guardians,... - [Aaron Morehouse's First Year Leading Hale Education](https://hale.education/blog/aaron-morehouses-first-year-leading-hale-education/): In Westwood Living’s latest podcast episode, Tom Leyden connects with Aaron Morehouse, the executive director of Hale Education, as he... - [The Joy of Swimming Outside](https://hale.education/blog/the-joy-of-swimming-outside/): When local parents look for Westwood swimming classes, they’re sure to come across South Beach—it’s where generation after generation of... - [Hale's Conservation Restrictions: Nearing the Finish Line](https://hale.education/blog/hales-conservation-restrictions-nearing-the-finish-line/): If all goes as hoped and expected, by the end of this June, a conservation goal which Hale Education (Hale)... - [Making Space in Mountain Biking](https://hale.education/blog/making-space-in-mountain-biking/): How Women Are Opening Doors to a Male-Dominated Sport Caitrin Maloney, co-owner of The TrailHouse and Sustainable Trailworks, grew up... - [A Community of Relief: How the MSPCA Is Responding to Climate Change](https://hale.education/blog/climate-change-mspca/): What happens to domesticated animals like cats and dogs when a major weather event like a hurricane or earthquake arrives?... - [A Community of Relief: How the Red Cross of Massachusetts Is Responding to Climate Change](https://hale.education/blog/climate-change-red-cross-ma/): When we think of disaster relief, we often think of volunteers from organizations like the American Red Cross, and there’s... - [Activity: Cone Snatch](https://hale.education/blog/activity-cone-snatch/): Activity Cone Snatch Cone Snatch is a quick, fun energizer that requires fast thinking and action. It's a great way... - [Reaching New Heights With Hale's Climbing Tower](https://hale.education/blog/reaching-new-heights-with-hales-climbing-tower/): When campers and participants hear “challenge course,” sometimes the term is met with blank stares: Not everyone is familiar with... - [Getting Started with Mushroom Identification](https://hale.education/blog/mushroom-identification/): Exploring the world of mushrooms is a fun and rewarding way to connect with nature, especially in the fall when... - [The Art of Noticing](https://hale.education/blog/the-art-of-noticing/): Using Your Five Senses To Learn About Trees Spending time around trees is a great way to learn the art... - [Activity: Who's in the Room](https://hale.education/blog/activity-whos-in-the-room/): Activity Who's in the Room Who's in the Room invites participants to learn about each other by asking and answering... - [Hale Education, Inc. Announces Aaron Morehouse as Next Executive Director ](https://hale.education/blog/hale-education-announces-aaron-morehouse-as-next-executive-director/): Hale Education, Inc. (Hale) is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Aaron Morehouse as its next Executive Director. With... - [Hale’s Holobiont](https://hale.education/blog/hales-holobiont/): Insights From Our Fall Equinox Celebration Last September, Maria Pinto’s keynote at Hale’s Fall Equinox Celebration explored the concept of the... - [Why Our Trails Are in Jeopardy](https://hale.education/blog/why-our-trails-are-in-jeopardy/): They run like ribbons through our landscape, meandering past meadows and shorelines, or vanishing into a thicket of trees. Some... - [Activity: Recycled Terrarium](https://hale.education/blog/recycled-terrarium/): Activity Recycled Terrarium Even if you don’t have a green thumb, you can grow plants with a homemade terrarium. You... - [The Value of Conservation](https://hale.education/blog/the-value-of-conservation/): How Local Leaders Protect Land for All Conservation, in short, is complicated work. Legally speaking, it’s often enforced through what’s... - [A Community of Communities: Believing in the Outdoors    ](https://hale.education/blog/a-community-of-communities-believing-in-the-outdoors/): Wilson Santos, youth Director of Congregación León De Judá and attendance supervisor at Boston Public Schools, is clear about what... - [Activity: Walk Stop](https://hale.education/blog/activity-walk-stop/): Activity Walk Stop Physical activity is important for learning. It improves concentration, boosts engagement, reduces disruptive behavior, and helps students... - [A Community of Communities: Reading in Roslindale    ](https://hale.education/blog/a-community-of-communities-reading-in-roslindale/): Roslindale truly is a village, and no village is complete without a resident poet—or in this case, multiple poets. This... - [A Community of Communities: Aspiring to Succeed    ](https://hale.education/blog/a-community-of-communities-aspiring-to-succeed/): Aspire is a Mass General for Children program that provides opportunities for children, teens, and adults who are on the... - [A Community of Communities: Living Like Lizards  ](https://hale.education/blog/a-community-of-communities-living-like-lizards/): If you’ve spent any time in Cambridge, you’ve likely heard of Lizard Lounge. For 27 years, this venue under Cambridge... - [Hale Celebrates the Winter Solstice](https://hale.education/blog/hale-celebrates-the-winter-solstice/): On the evening of Thursday, December 21st families gathered at Hale Education to celebrate the winter solstice. The winter solstice... - [Join a Community of Outdoors Enthusiasts at This Nonprofit Just Outside Boston](https://hale.education/blog/join-a-community-of-outdoors-enthusiasts-at-this-nonprofit-just-outside-boston/): Back to Nature: Winter Edition Winter is no excuse for hiding indoors—not when there are outdoor adventures to experience. NEEDHAM,... - [Eric Arnold's Vision for Hale Education](https://hale.education/blog/eric-arnolds-vision-for-hale-education/): Tom Leyden connects with Eric Arnold, the executive director of Hale Education. Eric Arnold has been the executive director at... - [Three Crafts To Celebrate Winter  ](https://hale.education/blog/three-crafts-to-celebrate-winter/): Despite what the latest TikToks and reels might say, you don’t have to put yourself in debt to mark the... - [Families Enjoy Scavenger Hunt at Hale](https://hale.education/blog/families-enjoy-scavenger-hunt-at-hale/): Returning for its eighth year, Hale Education in Westwood hosted a Fall Family Scavenger Hunt this past Friday, November 24th.... - [Four Benefits of Summer Camp ](https://hale.education/blog/four-benefits-of-summer-camp/): Summer camp offers a world of laughter, companionship, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you sign up for a few weeks or... - [A Spooktacular Saturday at Hale](https://hale.education/blog/a-spooktacular-saturday-at-hale/): Families ventured into the outdoors on Saturday, October 21st, for a thrilling Halloween experience at Hale Education’s Hale-o-ween. Ghosts, goblins,... - [Why You Should Try Hiking](https://hale.education/blog/why-you-should-try-hiking/): Greater Boston is home to many beautiful trails. Blue Hills Reservation offers stunning scenery, and Wilson Mountain Reservation offers a... - [A Community of Communities: Facilitating a Professional Family   ](https://hale.education/blog/a-community-of-communities-facilitating-a-professional-family/): Program facilitation attracts a playful, passionate, diverse group of people. Industry-wide, this seasonal work is fraught with turnover. But at... - [Give In to a Slower Summer: Restorative Outdoor Activities for All Ages](https://hale.education/blog/give-in-to-a-slower-summer-restorative-outdoor-activities-for-all-ages/): Living in New England means summer is limited to a few short months. All winter, we dream of long days... - [Local Land Trusts Urge Westwood, Dover Residents to Protect Public Access to 1,200 Acres of Hale Property](https://hale.education/blog/local-land-trusts-urge-westwood-dover-residents-to-protect-public-access-to-1200-acres-of-hale-property/): The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) has announced this week that it is joining forces with Westwood Land Trust and Dover... - [How To Prepare for Summer Camp](https://hale.education/blog/how-to-prepare-for-summer-camp/): Whether your child is about to begin their first summer program or they’ve been attending camp for years, planning is... - [5 Benefits of Outdoor Learning](https://hale.education/blog/5-benefits-of-outdoor-learning/): The world is full of amazing places to learn, but the greatest opportunities for growth are outside. Nature offers countless... - [How To Spend Time Outside This Summer](https://hale.education/blog/how-to-spend-time-outside-this-summer/): Put down the smartphone and turn off the TV, because this summer, your family needs to spend time together outside.... - [Splashing Into Spring](https://hale.education/blog/splashing-into-spring/): Navigating Puddles and Pools Snowmelt and spring rain can make things messy in the woods. If your kids are new... - [How the Yawkey Foundation Has Been One of Hale’s Most Enduring Partnerships](https://hale.education/blog/how-the-yawkey-foundation-has-been-one-of-hales-most-enduring-partnerships/): In 2004, old power lines fanning out to various buildings caused a small brush fire at Hale. Thankfully, the damage... - [What Are the Different Styles of Mountain Biking?](https://hale.education/blog/what-are-the-different-styles-of-mountain-biking/): Styles of Mountain Biking Downhill Downhill, also known as park style, is described by its name. In downhill you start... - [How To Pick a Day Camp That Will Help Your Child Grow](https://hale.education/blog/how-to-pick-a-day-camp-that-will-help-your-child/): Some camps (including Hale) open enrollment long before summer, so it’s never too early for parents to begin thinking about... - [7 Important Accessories for Mountain Biking](https://hale.education/blog/7-important-accessories-for-mountain-biking/): Mountain biking (MTB) is a great way to experience nature and stay in shape. There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline... - [Why You Should Watch a Live Outdoor Music Event This Summer](https://hale.education/blog/why-you-should-watch-a-live-outdoor-music-event/): Whether it’s the beginning of summer or the very end of it, one of the best ways to spend the... --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages - Published: 2025-04-04 - Modified: 2025-04-04 - URL: https://hale.education/give/reach-new-heights/ I'd like to help Hale reach new heights in 2025! Lending a hand this spring will help us expand access to the outdoors, help young people discover their potential, and create experiences that last a lifetime. Thank you for your support and for sharing our belief that nature, education, and recreation inspire us to learn, empower us to lead, and challenge us all to create a world in which people, place, and purpose are united. Make Your Gift Make Your Gift --- - Published: 2024-10-30 - Modified: 2024-11-20 - URL: https://hale.education/give/learn-grow-play/ Yes, I'd like to help children learn, grow, and play. Your contribution will support unique and impactful experiential learning opportunities for the children of Greater Boston. Thank you for your support, and sharing our belief that nature, education, and recreation inspire us to learn, empower us to lead, and challenge us all to create a world in which people, place, and purpose are united. Make Your Gift https://vimeo. com/1019923576 Make Your Gift --- - Published: 2023-06-07 - Modified: 2025-06-19 - URL: https://hale.education/consulting/ Hale employs several veteran school leaders who are available for consulting. Past consulting projects include: Facilitating a design team that expanded a high school by adding grades 7 and 8 Delivering a professional development series that helped K–12 teachers boost student engagement Consulting for a large comprehensive high school that sought to maximize learning for student sub-populations, particularly English Language Learners (ELLs) Supporting educators who were granted emergency teaching licensure during the COVID pandemic and needed to secure standard licensure when it ended Our consulting work aligns with three of Hale’s impact areas: Reimagining Learning, Building Community, and Achieving Equity. Get Additional Details If you would like to discuss a consulting partnership, please complete this inquiry form and a staff member will reach out to you. You'll also receive Hale's monthly eNews. --- - Published: 2023-06-07 - Modified: 2025-06-19 - URL: https://hale.education/coaching/ Hale employs several veteran school leaders who are available for one-on-one professional coaching.   Past coaching clients include: A department head who wanted feedback regarding supervision of struggling teachers, particularly novice teachers An assistant principal focused on better managing resources to maximize student learning opportunities A director of teaching and learning who adjusted recruitment strategies to increase racial diversity among staff A dean of students who developed a holistic discipline model that would be embraced by teachers, students, and families Our coaching work aligns with three of Hale’s impact areas: Reimagining Learning, Building Community, and Achieving Equity. Get Additional Details If you would like to discuss professional coaching, please complete this inquiry form and a staff member will reach out to you. You'll also receive Hale's monthly eNews. --- - Published: 2023-06-07 - Modified: 2025-04-03 - URL: https://hale.education/nature-for-all/ Nature for All At Hale, we embrace nature’s potential to inspire learning, stimulate growth, and promote healing. In that spirit, we commit to creating a place where people can benefit from educational programs that foster creativity, curiosity, wellness, and joy. Since we know access to the outdoor spaces and programs we offer is not yet universal, we acknowledge our profound responsibility to address social, economic, and cultural inequities in our work and governance. Join the Hale Education Community Contact Us Donate TODAY --- - Published: 2023-06-07 - Modified: 2025-05-13 - URL: https://hale.education/media-inquiries/ Media Inquiries Contact Greg FreedDirector of Marketing & Communicationsgfreed@hale. education About Hale Hale Education, Inc. is a private nonprofit widely recognized for its flagship camps, youth programs, family and community activities, school partnerships, and professional development opportunities. It serves several thousand children and families from 70 Greater Boston communities annually, and invites visitors to enjoy its 1,200 acres of forests, ponds, and meadows in Westwood and Dover, Massachusetts. Hale's programs and land management practices are the legacy of its founder, Robert Sever Hale, who encouraged people to patronize his property in ways that were "charitable and benevolent in nature... to provide education which will develop intelligent, capable, and responsible citizens. ” Mission Hale believes nature, education, and recreation inspire us to learn, empower us to lead, and challenge us all to create a world in which people, place, and purpose are united. Stats and Style Fast Facts Name: Hale Education, Inc. Property: 1,200 acres in Westwood and Dover, MA Conservation Status: Westwood Land Trust holds a conservation restriction on Sen Ki (30 acres); the remainder of the property is currently unprotected Founded: March 11, 1918 by Robert Sever Hale 501(c)(3) Status: Yes Board President: Tamatha Bibbo, 2025–Present Executive Director: Aaron Morehouse, Ph. D. , 2024–Present Annual Operating Budget: $5. 375MM Endowment: $1. 4MM Accreditation: American Camp Association, High 5 Adventure Brand Assets Hale’s logo, word marks, and select photos are available upon request. Email Greg Freed at gfreed@hale. education if you need or plan to use these files. Please describe how and when you would like to use them, and include any technical specs (color, transparency, file format, etc. ). Style Guidelines Legal References: “Hale Education, Inc. ” Shorthand References: “Hale Education” and “Hale” are preferred; the acronym “HEI” is uncommon and discouraged Avoid: “Hale Reservation,” the organization’s previous name (officially changed in 2021) In the News View All Posts --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-07-21 - URL: https://hale.education/financial-aid/ Investing in the Future Financial Aid Hale strives to be a place where people from all backgrounds and circumstances have opportunities for education and recreation. Everyone Belongs Outside No one’s financial circumstances should prevent them from enjoying the great outdoors. We invite folks who may not be able to afford Hale’s programs to join us with the support of financial aid. People can apply for assistance for Hale Summer Camps, our Family & Community Program, and School Vacation Days. Other programs, such as Hale Outdoor Learning Adventures and Intrepid Academy at Hale, incorporate financial assistance in their design. We hope that by providing alternative financial arrangements, more people can experience our programs and build knowledge and skills that last a lifetime. Hale’s financial aid is made possible by the generosity of individual donors, foundations, corporations, and public organizations. With their support, we make it possible for more people to learn beyond the walls of traditional classrooms and have life-changing experiences that only nature can offer. Financial Aid Applications School Vacation Days Days off from school are more memorable when spent building shelters, hiking, sledding, and orienteering. Our Campership Fund makes these valuable experiences possible for more students, because every kid deserves a break from their routine and a chance to get outside when school isn’t in session! Children whose families would like to apply for financial aid should email finaid@hale. education to express interest and Hale’s staff will provide the application. Our program holds spaces for financial aid applicants, so if a child is eligible for and receives aid, they are guaranteed a space in the program should their family choose to accept an aid package. Applications for 2025–2026 programs will be available this fall. Summer Camps Camp is synonymous with summer, and it’s where so many of us learn new skills and form lifelong friendships. Tuition can be prohibitive for many families—but that doesn’t mean their campers can’t enroll. We serve ages 4 and up, and bus transportation is included. Campers whose families would like to apply for financial aid should email finaid@hale. education to express interest and Hale’s staff will provide the application. Our camps hold spaces for financial aid applicants, so if a camper is eligible for and receives aid, they are guaranteed a space in the program should their family choose to accept an aid package. The application period for 2025 has ended. Family & Community Program Registration fees should never be an obstacle to spending time with family, friends, and neighbors. Make the most of summer on our beautiful South Beach campus. Our 8-week program season includes open swimming, boating, and daily activities. Participants who would like to apply for financial aid should email finaid@hale. education to express interest and Hale’s staff will provide the application. Our program holds spaces for financial aid applicants, so if an applicant is eligible for and receives aid, they are guaranteed a space in the program should they choose to accept an aid package. Application Deadline: Rolling Westwood Residents: Westwood Community Chest provides additional financial support for Westwood residents in need. Applicants who live in Westwood who wish to apply for these funds should complete Hale’s application and WCC’s application and submit both at the same time. U. S. Military & Veterans: Additional financial support is available for members of the military and veterans. Applicants who wish to apply for these funds should indicate their status when completing Hale's application. Request Application School Programs We work with a variety of schools and community partners to design programs that fit their needs and budgets. We do our best to ensure all students can participate in Teambuilding, Field Trips, Challenge Course and Overnight programs, HOLA, Intrepid Academy at Hale, and more. Contact us Expand Hale's Community Whether you'd like to explore financial aid for yourself or lend your support to others, help us ensure Hale makes nature accessible to all. Ask about financial aid Support OUR programs --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-06-19 - URL: https://hale.education/faq/ Frequently Asked Questions Is Hale open to the public? Yes. While Hale is privately owned and operated as an independent nonprofit, we welcome visitors (and their canine companions) for passive recreation throughout the year. If you appreciate our property, programs, and people, we hope you'll consider visiting by way of an annual parking pass and invite you to make a gift that will positively impact future generations. Isn’t Hale just a summer camp? There’s no such thing as just a camp, and we offer programs year-round! During the summer we offer four day camps—Hale Day Camp offers classic outdoor activities, Hale Adventure Camp goes on wilderness trips, Hale Mountain Biking Camp teaches kids to ride, and Hale Outdoor Learning Adventures combines academic lessons with nature activities for elementary school students from Boston Public Schools. Our Family & Community Program hosts hundreds of friends and neighbors eager to go swimming, boating, and more at South Beach. During the academic year, we serve thousands of students through Teambuilding, Field Trips, Overnight & Multi-Day Programs, and across our three living tree Challenge Courses. High school cohorts spend semesters learning outside at Intrepid Academy at Hale. We offer public events that range from annual favorites like Hale-o-ween to regularly scheduled mountain biking clinics and festivals, community hikes, and family fun days. Check out our Events Calendar to see what’s coming up. Can I host a private event at Hale? You may! Hale offers several buildings, campsites, pavilions, and fields for rent. From scout campouts to weddings and reunions to company retreats, Hale is the perfect spot for many types of events. Best of all: By renting a facility at Hale, you support nonprofit programs that help people lead better lives in the great outdoors. Please note that we do not offer event planning or support and have limited food preparation facilities, but we're glad to suggest vendors who are familiar with the property. Learn more about Rentals. What is Hale's Federal Tax Identification Number? Hale's Federal Tax Identification Number (also known as a Federal Employer Identification Number, or EIN) is 04-2111550. How do I join your mailing list? You can use the handy form in the footer of this page. Sign up to receive our monthly eNews, information about programs, and more. You may edit your preferences or unsubscribe at any time. Join the Hale Education Community Contact Us Donate TODAY --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-05-21 - URL: https://hale.education/visit/mountain-biking/ Mountain Biking Mountain bikers of all ages are drawn to Hale’s rugged, varied terrain just miles from Boston’s city line. Whether you like to ride on your own or as a participant of our programs, we’re glad to welcome you to our community of riders. About MTB at Hale There are many ways you can (courteously) shred Hale's trails. We’ll be glad to help you learn, practice, and progress through our clinics, clubs, and programs. Youth Mountain Biking Youth riding is our specialty. Many of these programs offer opportunities for adults to participate as well—by joining us as a staff member or volunteer, you can help kids learn about the sport. Hale MTB Camp Elementary and middle school-age students focus on skill-building and ride time throughout summer. Campers execute drills, increase endurance, and learn about bike maintenance and trail stewardship in our private skills park and beyond. Learn More Youth MTB Club Our year-round Youth Mountain Biking Club for ages 8–14 offers sessions after school and on weekends. Young riders enjoy small-group instruction and non-competitive, skills-oriented fun! Everyone grows together on our trails and in our skills park. Learn More Youth MTB Clinics Hale offers youth skills clinics and programs with coaches and instructors who teach technique and increase confidence. Sign up for a single session and focus on a specific goal, or join a season-long program and learn with a community of riders. Learn More MTB at Hale instructors hold certifications from the globally recognized Bike Instructor Certification Program (BICP), which means they’re highly trained to lead group rides and teach fundamental and intermediate mountain biking skills through camps and clinics. They’re well versed in stability, biomechanics, teaching strategy, site selection, goal setting, demonstrations, progressions, error detection, trail flow, basic drops, and jumps. Our BICP Certified Instructors Meet Our Full Team Mountain Biking Clinics Youth and adult clinics and special events improve skills and build community. Whether you’re new to riding or you’ve been shredding for years, develop skills to safely enjoy mountain biking on a variety of trails, through rock gardens, and beyond. Maintain an adventurous spirit and embrace the ‘challenge by choice’ motto as you set your own pace and explore features and challenges. Coaches offer personalized feedback that improves technique, increases confidence, and builds community. Hale's Youth MTB Clinics are best suited to ages 8–14. Riders must be at least 15 years old to participate in Hale's Adult MTB Clinics. UPCOMING MTB Clinics & Events Essentials Review and practice the essentials in a controlled environment as you focus on the importance of body positioning and technical skills such as braking, shifting, and steering. This clinic includes small features, drills, and demonstrations. Intro to Jump Make progress with fellow riders as you go from wheel lifts to bunny hops to small gap jumps. These clinics explore the mechanics of taking off and safely landing on flats and descents. Expand your riding capabilities to confidently hit trail features you wouldn’t have before. Advanced Jump Work with experienced coaches to improve and stylize your jumping skills. Tap into your mechanics to progress and challenge yourself using the airbag lander and jump training mulch pit. Previous completion of our Intro to Jump clinic is recommended but not required. Progression Discover the importance and power of body positioning and learn to navigate tight situations, work on climbing and descending, tackle tough features, and practice cornering. This clinic spends more time on open trails and stops to session certain features. Trail Ride Hit single track and put your skills to the test with climbs, features, and downhills. Trail Ride is the real deal and tackles drops, jumps, corners, and tricky rocks. You should feel comfortable on a mountain bike, but this clinic is NOT limited to experts—embrace the challenge on this friendly group ride. Bike Mechanics 101 Learn the ins and outs of bike maintenance, from fixing flat tires to adjusting gears and brakes. Our fun, supportive environment makes it hard to be intimidated. Coaches break down technical jargon so you can easily understand how to take the best care of your bike. Open Jump Nights Get ready to fly! Head to the Hale mountain bike park to hone skills needed to safely send it on 6-foot jumps. During Open Jump Nights, our airbag is fully inflated, and staff members are standing by to support your self-paced progress. We offer Open Jump Nights periodically throughout the year, typically in three-hour blocks on Wednesday evenings. All levels (ages 7+) are welcome. Participants are required to bring their own bikes, helmets, and pads. Admission is $30 per rider, payable on arrival (cash accepted; credit card preferred). Summer Jump NIghts I’ve been mountain biking at Hale for about 15 years. The property and programs have changed a lot, and I continue to enjoy Hale’s diverse trail network and natural scenery. It’s an easy escape from the noise and bustle that surrounds Boston. Explore On Your Own Hale’s 20+ miles of multi-use trails are available for mountain biking year-round. Please review our Visitor Guidelines for trail maps, general information about public use, and rider expectations. Visitor Guidelines Annual Races & Events Hale is proud to host two annual MTB races and a women's mountain biking day that feature some of Hale’s favorite trails and sections that offer something for riders of all ages and abilities. Our fall race, the Great Pumpkin Smash, is in October. Everwild Women's Mountain Biking Day and our spring race, the Final de Barro, are in early May. The Great Pumpkin Smash This XC Olympic format race features some of Hale’s best trails. Stay Tuned Everwild Women's MTB Day Celebrate the power of women on mountain bikes. Learn More Final de Barro Each spring, we welcome the end of mud season with a ride on terra firma. Learn More https://vimeo. com/1038327576 Everwild creates a space for women of all skills and abilities to advance the sport and build community through wellness, whether you’re a veteran rider or someone who has never been on a mountain bike. Check out highlights from our inaugural event in 2024, then click here to register for Everwild 2025. FAQs Is mountain biking dangerous? Mountain biking is an inherently dangerous sport with an injury risk profile similar to skiing, snowboarding, and contact sports such as soccer, hockey, and basketball. The most common injuries are minor cuts and bruises. Programs guide novice riders on trails that allow them to safely develop their stamina and technical skills so they can discover their comfort zone and limits. Always wear a helmet. Body armor is also recommended. Those who ride at Hale do so at their own risk. How difficult is riding at Hale? Terrain at Hale varies in technical difficulty. You may encounter tight switchbacks, banked turns, rollers, small bridges, table tops, gap jumps, and rock drops. Always ride within your ability and work your way up to more difficult features. Remember to inspect features before riding, as conditions change due to weather and use. Do not enter Hale MTB Camp's skills park without staff supervision. Please refrain from biking through program areas, especially when camp is in session during the summer. What if the weather is bad? Programs typically ride in drizzle or light rain, but will delay or cancel rides during heavy rain. We steward the trails we ride, so we refrain from riding during mud season (usually March) and during heavy downpours that can result in damage. Races occur rain or shine. Kindly refrain from riding during “mud season,” as it can severely damage the trails we rely on. Do I need to know how to fix a flat tire? It certainly helps to be able to make simple repairs while you’re out on the trails, especially if you’re riding solo. We periodically offer bike maintenance sessions to develop these skills and help you learn to keep your bike in tune. During practice sessions, riders and coaches on the trails are ready to help. During races, professional support is available. Upcoming Events Explore All EVents Learn More Stay up to date about upcoming clinics, races, camps, youth programs, and more. You'll also receive Hale's monthly eNews. Protect the Land Advance the Sport No matter how you choose to explore Hale by bike, we hope you’ll consider helping steward the property by making a gift or securing an annual parking pass so you can ride every day. Donate ANNUAL PARKING PASS --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2024-10-04 - URL: https://hale.education/rentals/ Rentals From weddings to corporate retreats, Hale is the perfect spot for your next event. Inquire Now We offer several buildings, campsites, pavilions, and fields for rent. And by renting a facility at Hale, you support nonprofit programs that help people lead better lives in the great outdoors. Weddings Hale offers a unique, rustic touch for weddings. Enjoy the convenience of modern facilities in an intimate setting. Rentals include three pre-event site visits and a five-hour reception (setup begins at 8 AM on the day of the event). North Beach Capacity: 200 (75 in Pavilion) North Beach provides breathtaking sunsets on the shores of Noanet Pond. This site is perfect for a casual, beach barbecue wedding, or as a simple sandy spot for your ceremony. Inquire Orchard & Barn Capacity: 50-100 A butterfly garden, apple orchard, field, and charming barn with a small porch provide plenty of room. Temporary bathrooms may be rented. Inquire Powissett Lodge Capacity: 100 Included in this rental is the fire circle ceremony area with stage and bench seating, small kitchen, working fireplace and two composting bathrooms. Inquire Cat Rock Field Capacity: Varies Cat Rock Field rentals include use of a pavilion and Fern Valley bathrooms. Tent rentals and electricity may be coordinated as well. Inquire Corporate Retreats Hale is a great place for your company's next meeting or retreat. Several facilities accommodate between 20 and 100 people. Hale can also help you plan a corporate service day that pairs a morning of hands-on projects with an afternoon of teambuilding with our corporate facilitators. Powissett Lodge Capacity: 100 Large function room with fireplace, cathedral ceiling, and hardwood floors. Kitchen, 2 bathrooms, deck, fire pit, and pavilion. Wooded setting includes views of Noanet Pond. Handicap accessible ramp and on-site parking. Inquire Barns, Fields, and Pavilions Capacity: Varies A barn and several fields and pavilions are available to rent. Inquire Private Events Host your next birthday party, family reunion, bridal shower, or other celebration at Hale. Each rental includes one pre-event site visit and a five-hour event (which includes a four-hour setup time). Powissett Lodge Capacity: 100 Large function room with fireplace, cathedral ceiling, and hardwood floors. Kitchen, 2 bathrooms, deck, fire pit, and pavilion. Wooded setting includes views of Noanet Pond. Handicap accessible ramp and on-site parking. Inquire North Beach Capacity: 200 Facilities include a 300’ sandy beach on a 55-acre pond, picnic tables, a 36’x36’ pavilion, bathrooms, a volleyball net, a 5’ charcoal grill, and a parking lot in walking distance. Inquire Barns, Fields, and Pavilions Capacity: Varies A barn and several fields and pavilions are available to rent. Inquire Group Camping Hale does not offer private camping, but scout groups or similar organizations may reserve sites. Buildings are not available for overnights. View our camp site map. Fern Valley Capacity: 25+ Tents Site includes: Fire pit; Parking; Bathrooms on site during warmer months Twin Oaks Capacity: 10–15 Tents Site includes: Fire pit and porch shelter; Parking; Bathrooms during warmer months High Rock Cabin Area Capacity: 20+ Tents Site includes: Fire pit and porch shelter; Parking; Bathrooms during warmer months Fox Hill Pavilion Capacity: 15–20 Tents Site includes: Fire pit and pavilion; Parking; Bathrooms on site during warmer months Great Horned Pavilion Capacity: 15–20 Tents Site includes: Fire circle and pavilion shelter; Parking; Bathrooms during warmer months Saw-Whet Pavilion Capacity: 10–15 Tents Site includes: Fire circle and pavilion shelter; Parking; Bathrooms during warmer months Cat Rock Cabin Area Capacity: 25–30 Tents Site includes: Large fire circle and pavilion; Parking; Bathrooms during warmer months Chapel Valley Capacity: 20–25 Tents Site includes: Fire circle and pavilion; Parking; Bathrooms Firefly Hill Capacity: 10–15 Tents Site includes: Fire circle and pavilion; Parking; Bathrooms Storrow Pond Capacity: 10–15 Tents Site includes: Chimney; Parking; Bathrooms Camp McFarland Capacity: 10–15 Tents Site includes: Fire circle and lean-to; Parking; Bathrooms Three Rocks Capacity: 30 Tents Site includes: Fire circle and porch shelter; Parking; Bathrooms during warmer months ABC Cabin Area Capacity: 20 Tents Site includes: Fire circle; Parking; Bathrooms during warmer months Birthday Parties Whether you’re turning 1 or 100 years old, you can celebrate your day with friends and family at Hale. Grownups tend to prefer traditional venue rentals that afford them flexibility to plan whatever they have in mind, and the beach is a popular spot for kids to swim with friends (be sure to request a lifeguard when you inquire below). Celebrate at Hale Save the Date Begin the booking process today. Inquire below and one of our staff members will follow up. Upcoming Events Explore All Events --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://hale.education/employment/ Work at Hale Join the adventure—we’d love to consider you for a position on our team! Learn more about the types of opportunities we have available. Permanent SEASONAL Our Community When you work with Hale, you join a diverse team of passionate people who are committed to making a difference. We spark joy and curiosity every day as we help people connect with and learn about the natural environment. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a lifelong learner, and love inspiring others, a career with Hale is a rewarding way to positively impact your own life and the lives of those around you. Our year-round and summer opportunities all require highly qualified individuals, and our hiring process is very selective. Our year-round staff leads and maintains the operations of Hale. From delivering programs to coordinating events to managing our business processes and physical plant, this team leverages its expertise to ensure Hale fulfills its mission. Candidates should be creative critical thinkers, prepared to address challenges with thoughtful solutions.   Casual, contract, and seasonal employees include professional facilitators, camp counselors, lifeguards, and more. These folks are often passionate educators who aim to help kids and adults learn outside traditional settings. Whether you’re a high school or college student, a recent grad, a teacher on vacation, or a registered nurse, Hale offers unique opportunities for individuals to put their personal and professional skills to use in the great outdoors. Permanent Employment Opportunities Join our year-round team of two dozen professionals. We’d like to hear about your passion for adventure, learning, and serving the community. When roles become available, we look for talented people like you to fill on-site and hybrid positions. current openings Casual, Contract, and Seasonal Employment Opportunities Looking to work nights? Weekends? Afternoons now and then, or every day for just a few months? If you’re passionate about education, ready to serve as a role model, and committed to safely delivering fun experiences in the great outdoors, we’d like to hear from you. Summer Jobs Perfect for ages 14–21+, these jobs are an opportunity to spend summer in the sun working with campers and families. Whether you’d like to coach kids, mentor teens, guard waterfronts, lead activities, or even landscape, we have a role for you. Current Openings Facilitators Hale’s facilitators come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Some are current or former teachers. Others are retired business professionals. From wilderness therapy to social work, no single path leads to work on our fields, trails, and accredited challenge courses. Use your background in experiential learning to facilitate teambuilding, field trips, and overnights and multi-day programs—at Hale, there are many ways you can help groups learn to achieve goals and reach their potential. Current Openings FAQs Do I need certifications to work at Hale? For some positions, yes—but we also provide pathways and support to secure them. For example, our staff members regularly train and certify new lifeguards and challenge course facilitators. We also offer Wilderness First Aid certification through one of our Youth Leadership Development Programs. There are many ways to get the training and credentials you need to work at Hale, so don’t hesitate to apply if you don’t have them yet! Do I get to pick where I work at Hale? If you apply for a permanent employment opportunity, you’ll be considered for the specific role you expressed interest in. Casual, contract, and seasonal opportunities span multiple programs, and you may or may not be able to select the specific program you would like to work in. Fortunately, all programs need passionate and motivated staff members, so you can expect to use your skills and gain valuable experience no matter what! I’m considering a summer job at Hale. What skills will I gain for my professional career? The camp industry has long provided what are now known as the “21st century” skills required for life-long success:  Critical Thinking & Problem Solving Creativity & Innovation Communication & Collaboration These skills, along with many others, are developed while working with us, and they’re all transferrable to other career paths. An Equal Opportunity Employer Hale is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors. We are committed to a work environment in which our diverse cultures, perspectives, skills, backgrounds, and experiences are welcomed and respected. Learn More and Apply Your skills and passion can make a difference. Explore current openings. PERMANENT SEASONAL --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-05-27 - URL: https://hale.education/employment/permanent/ Permanent Employment Opportunities Our people and programs have been impacting lives in countless ways for more than a century, and we’re always on the lookout for talented new colleagues. Join the Team Are you interested in joining the Hale team year-round? Any open part- and full-time positions are outlined below. Open Positions Assistant Director, Teambuilding and Experiential Education Hale is seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to co-lead custom Teambuilding programs for schools and colleges and manage our extensive Challenge Course operations (which includes inventory management, licensing, inspections, purchases, and repairs across three living tree courses that feature low and high elements). The Assistant Director will also oversee Overnight & Multi-Day Programs and School Vacation Days, and they will manage challenge course staff members who serve Hale Summer Camps. This is a full-time, exempt, year-round position that has a salary range of $50,000–$60,000. To apply, email a résumé and cover letter to Sue Crumbaker at scrumbaker@hale. education. Download Position Description Grants and Partnerships Coordinator Hale is seeking a highly skilled communicator, writer, and relationship builder to deepen Hale's impact on our community as our Grants and Partnerships Coordinator. Hale believes nature, education, and recreation inspire us to learn, empower us to lead, and challenge us all to create a world in which people, place, and purpose are united, and the person in this role will be tasked with communicating these values and how we deliver on them through grant proposals and connections with corporate and educational partners. As a representative of Hale, the coordinator will find funders and partners whose goals align with current and future projects and initiatives and will work to secure the support and funding needed for Hale to continue to expand its reach. This is a full-time, exempt, year-round position that has a salary range of $63,000-$68,000. To apply, email a résumé and cover letter to Jocelyn Bergeron at advancement@hale. education. Download Position Description Outdoor Learning Guide Hale is seeking an Outdoor Learning Guide to facilitate outdoor activities, collaborate with teachers to transform and adapt academic curricula, and support Intrepid Academy at Hale program logistics.  This is a full-time, exempt, year-round position that includes benefits and has a salary range of $55,000–$61,000. If you'd like to help create an inclusive, supportive environment for students and teachers to learn in nature, we'd love to hear from you. To apply, email a résumé and cover letter to Erica Pernell, Director, Intrepid Academy at Hale, at epernell@hale. education  Download Position Description Explore Seasonal Opportunities An Equal Opportunity Employer Hale is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors. We are committed to a work environment in which our diverse cultures, perspectives, skills, backgrounds, and experiences are welcomed and respected. Join the Hale Education Community Contact Us Donate TODAY --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-02-03 - URL: https://hale.education/employment/seasonal/ Contract, Casual, and Seasonal Employment APPLY VOLUNTEER About Seasonal Employment Hale offers outdoor recreation programs for children and families! If you’re passionate about education, ready to serve as a role model, and committed to safely delivering fun experiences in the great outdoors, we’d like to hear from you. express interest Types of Positions Leadership Are you a college student, grad student, teacher, or outdoor professional? Use your expertise to supervise and mentor summer staff members across Hale’s programs. Bring your energy, creativity, and desire to guide the teams who deliver so many of our activities. Roles and Age Requirements: Camp Director (25+), Assistant Camp Director (22+), Unit Lead (21+), Waterfront Supervisor/Lead (18+) Counselors Counselors work directly with campers to support social and emotional development and create memories that last a lifetime! Whether you're guiding campers in group activities or helping them solve problems, you'll make a lasting impression on children's lives. Roles and Age Requirements: Head Counselor (20+), Camp Counselor (16+), Office Assistant (16+), Program Assistant (16+) Waterfront Hale’s lifeguards, water safety instructors, and boating instructors are certified by the American Red Cross. They make safety a top priority as they inspire confidence on the water and teach valuable life skills that foster independence. Roles and Age Requirements: Aquatics Director (21+), Water Safety Instructor (15+), Boating Instructor (15+), Lifeguard (15+) Beach & Boating Attendants Beach and boating attendants welcome visitors, support program activities, and develop valuable customer service skills as they support the Family & Community Program's waterfront operations at South Beach. Roles and Age Requirements: Attendant (14+) MTB Specialists Hale Mountain Biking Camp's specialists support course design, manage equipment, and help campers safely progress from being novices to advanced riders who tackle features, jumps, and more. Roles and Age Requirements: MTB Specialist (16+) Wilderness Specialists Hale Adventure Camp's specialists help plan and guide trips, manage and maintain gear, and teach campers the navigation and survival skills they need to become self-reliant explorers of the great outdoors. Roles and Age Requirements: Trip Leader (18+), Wilderness Specialist (16+) Activity Specialists Painters, musicians, archers, actors, and naturalists are all at home in Hale’s community. Grab your paintbrush, instrument, bow, or costume and share your passion with others beyond the walls of traditional classrooms. Roles and Age Requirements: Head Activity Specialist (20+), Activity Specialist (18+) Facilitators Do you enjoy building teams, climbing on high and low ropes elements, and leading games and initiatives? Spend your summer working with groups on our fields, trails, and accredited challenge courses. Roles and Age Requirements: Year-Round Per Diem Facilitator (18+), Summer Facilitator (18+) Healthcare Professionals Health and safety are top priorities at Hale. If you’re a compassionate individual who’s eager to support the health needs of our community, consider serving as a licensed nurse, EMT, or healthcare assistant. Roles and Age Requirements: Healthcare Supervisor (18+), Nurse (18+), Emergency Medical Technician (18+) Buildings & Grounds Programs would have a hard time running without the hard work of this quiet crew. From mowing lawns to maintaining facilities, it takes many hands to keep Hale's property clean, comfortable, and beautiful. Roles and Age Requirements: Maintenance Staff (16+) Frequently Asked Questions What qualities make a good Hale staff member? Energy, flexibility, and reliability are key when working in our programs. Our staff members are typically involved in their school, local, or religious communities and have a passion to make the world a better place. Our staff loves working with some really cool kids, too! I'm under 16 years old. What jobs can I apply for? We're happy to employ 14- and 15-year-olds as Beach and Boating Attendants. This position supports Waterfront operations, so please select “Waterfront Positions” when you apply. Incoming high school students are also eligible to join Hale’s High School Volunteer Program. What will my work schedule look like? Schedules differ depending on what program you are hired to work for. Camps generally operate Monday–Friday from 8 AM–4 PM, but some programs have overnights that require other hours. Summer is the busiest season at Hale, so if you choose to join our team, we ask that you commit the majority of your summer to this important work. Any time off should be requested and approved prior to the start of programs. You’ll learn more about schedules throughout the application and interview process. What can I expect to be paid? We highly value our seasonal staff. Pay rates vary based on experience and certifications, but all positions are paid at least minimum wage. Seasonal staff are paid on a biweekly schedule through direct deposit. What happens after I express interest? First, one of our staff members will reach out and invite you to formally apply. Next, we’ll review your application and you’ll have an opportunity to interview with us. If you move forward, we’ll contact your references, verify your credentials and work history, and run criminal background (CORI) and sex offender (SORI) checks. We’re committed to hiring the best summer staff possible, and hope to welcome you to that community! I'd rather volunteer than apply for a job. Can I do that? Yes you can! Our High School Volunteer Program is a great introduction to some of the responsibilities our staff members have. I still have questions. Who should I contact? Please contact us by phone at 781-326-1770 or by email at info@hale. education. Hear From Our Staff Hale offers an environment where people develop personally and professionally. From teaching a camper how to steer a mountain bike to coordinating special events, Hale provides exceptional opportunities for growth. Learn from previous and current staff members about what it’s like to work at Hale. https://vimeo. com/835858980 Express Interest Let us know you’re thinking about working at Hale and you'll receive occasional updates and Hale's monthly eNews. If you're expressing interest on behalf of a minor, be sure to enter their name and contact information. This signup form is not an application—to begin the application process, click here. Join the Team We are now accepting applications for summer 2025. Please request an application or express general interest today. Interviews will be conducted and positions filled on a rolling basis. REQUEST Application VOLUNTEER An Equal Opportunity Employer Hale is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors. We are committed to a work environment in which our diverse cultures, perspectives, skills, backgrounds, and experiences are welcomed and respected. --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2024-09-26 - URL: https://hale.education/give/ Make Your Gift Impactful change is only possible through the generosity of people like you. Thank you for your support. GIVE ONLINE OTHER WAYS TO GIVE A Community of Changemakers Making a Difference Together Donors like you make every aspect of our work possible, from education and public programs to land stewardship and trail maintenance. The ongoing preservation of this invaluable property and its role in our local landscape and ecosystem depends on our network of supporters. Learn About Our Impact I was drawn to Hale years ago while looking for a Boston Marathon charity team to run with. When I started my career in commercial fishing, I never had the financial resources others enjoyed, and it took me decades of hard work to achieve success. I discovered wonderful people at Hale who are creating opportunities for so many young individuals to be successful... to witness the companionship and friendship is very moving. My wife, Mary Susan, and I truly believe our donations are changing the future, creating a beautiful world where compassion and acceptance will prevail. I’ve experienced how my own family and children are impacted by Hale’s programs and trails and I know my gift makes this possible for our local community and kids all over the Boston area. There’s always something new to learn. There’s always something new to see. I feel like every time I come to Hale, I end up discovering something new. It’s always an adventure here. 86% of dollars raised goes toward programs $120,000 is raised by our Boston Marathon team each year 20,000 people participate in programs every year Financial Transparency Hale is proud to have earned GuideStar’s 2023 Silver Seal of Transparency. We invite each and every community member, donor, funder, and decision-maker to view our commitment to financial accountability. Visit our GuideStar profile to learn more about our organization. Ways To Give Hale is a 501(c)(3) organization. Gifts to Hale are tax deductible. Please consult your tax professional for more information. Our EIN is 04-2111550. If you have a question about your tax statement or giving record, please email giving@hale. education or call 781-326-1770. Online You can make your gift online right now! Checks Please make checks payable to Hale Education, Inc. and mail or deliver them to the attention of Diane Collins: Hale Education, Inc. 80 Carby StreetWestwood, MA 02090 IRA Distributions We welcome IRA distributions. A qualified charitable distribution allows individuals who are 70½ years old or older to donate up to $100,000 in total to nonprofits directly from a taxable IRA. As a result, donors may avoid being placed into higher income tax brackets and continue being able to receive tax deductions. Please contact us to coordinate the transfer of an IRA distribution. Appreciated Securities A gift of appreciated securities offers beneficial tax benefits and directly supports an organization of importance to you. By completing an appreciated security gift, a donor may claim a charitable income tax deduction for the full value of the gift on the date the gift is completed. A donor can also avoid paying the capital gains taxes that would result if the donor were to sell the securities. To make a gift of appreciated securities, instruct your broker to transfer them to: RBC Dain Rauscher – Phone: 781-263-1000Deliver to DTC Clearing #0235 Further credit should be transferred to: Hale Education, Inc. #301-01650 Please contact us with the number of shares and stock symbol(s) so we are ready to receive your gift and can properly credit you. Make Your Gift Online Philanthropy creates opportunities for people from many backgrounds to experience outdoor learning at Hale, encompassing everything from transportation to meals to the incredible counselors and facilitators who deliver best-in-class programs. Your gift today ensures that Hale will continue to thrive and promises a Hale education for generations to come. Together, we can spark joy, bridge gaps, foster wellness, and protect the world around us. Let's build a brighter future. Create Opportunities Together we can find purpose, nurture potential, and ignite change. Donate today and safeguard Hale's property and programs for generations to come. make your gift become a member --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-05-28 - URL: https://hale.education/volunteer/ Volunteer Hale’s High School Volunteer Program develops leadership skills as volunteers work closely with seasonal staff members to meaningfully impact Hale’s visitors, have fun, and enjoy summer. applICATION CLOSED Teens can volunteer for Hale's Family & Community Program during the summer! Volunteers help deliver this program for all ages and focus on ages 3–11 in particular, which may include facilitating (and having fun in) activities and planning and learning to run community games. A minimum time commitment of 2 weeks is required, but these weeks do not need to be consecutive and can be spread out throughout the summer. All hours worked will be documented so that you can apply them toward any volunteer requirements (for graduation, scouting, etc. ). We've recruited all of the volunteers we need for summer 2025, but look forward to receiving your application for next year when our application reopens this fall! --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-04-11 - URL: https://hale.education/boston-marathon-team/ Boston Marathon Team Hale is honored to be a member of the Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program. Our runners create transformative outdoor learning opportunities for Boston students. SUPPORT THE TEAM APPLICATIONS CLOSED Run Like Hale Since 2013, our teams have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support programs including HOLA and Intrepid Academy at Hale. We seek runners who are as serious about closing the opportunity gap as they are about crossing the Finish Line. Interest is very high each year, so we are only able to offer interviews to applicants who most closely connect with Hale’s mission and impact areas and who are capable of meeting our ambitious fundraising goals. Being a member of Team Hale means you can expect: Guidance regarding your fundraising efforts A personal fundraising page to solicit donations Expert training and team runs Boston Marathon entry (also called a “charity bib”) and team singlet Enthusiastic support from our network of alumni and constituents Our team is no longer accepting applications for the 129th Boston Marathon. Contact us if you have questions or would like to learn more about Team Hale. Please visit the Boston Athletic Association’s site for general information about its charity program and this year’s race. An Official Charity Hale is proud to be a member of the Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program, which focuses on building healthy communities. The Boston Athletic Association provides our non-profit with entries, and we use them to recruit athletes who raise funds and awareness. Support Team Hale Our team is full and our application is now closed. Click below to meet this year's team and support our runners! Meet the Runners Upcoming Events Explore All Events --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2023-10-26 - URL: https://hale.education/contact/ Contact Office 80 Carby StreetWestwood, MA 02090 Phone (781) 326-1770 Hours Our office is open from 9 AM–5 PM, Monday through Friday. The property is open for passive recreation daily—see our Visitor Guidelines for current hours. Connect Connect on Instagram Connect on Facebook Connect on Twitter Connect on LinkedIn --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-06-19 - URL: https://hale.education/partners/schools/ Our Partner Schools As Official Partner Schools of Hale, 10 institutions are able to amplify the impact of their academic programs on Hale’s acres of adventure. The Official Partner Schools of Hale Hale provides facilities, a health center, and activity specialists that afford participants from a variety of Greater Boston communities with opportunities to swim, boat, hike, learn about nature, and climb on our challenge courses. Boston Collaborative High School Boston Public Schools Since 2020, Hale has partnered with Boston Collaborative High School (BCHS) by providing regular professional development to support project-based learning. Hale has hosted the BCHS Student Ambassador program, providing teambuilding and leadership development for a select group of students who visit Hale as many as six times per year. BCHS holds its annual staff orientation at Hale as well. Boston Day and Evening Academy Boston Public Schools Hale has partnered with Boston Day and Evening Academy (BDEA) through Intrepid Academy at Hale (IAH) since 2019. BDEA’s staff and students travel to Hale every fall and spend 10 weeks immersed in nature. Through the generosity of the Liberty Mutual Foundation, BDEA also hosts a Hale outdoor guide who works with environmental science classes to integrate hands-on outdoor activities. The school regularly brings both students and staff members to Hale for teambuilding. Recognized as a national leader in alternative education, BDEA serves students who have not yet been academically successful in traditional high schools and has a track record of supporting secondary graduation rates and post-secondary learning. Catholic Memorial High School Since 2018, Catholic Memorial High School’s 7th, 8th, and 9th grade students have come to Hale for orientation and teambuilding. Their programs help students develop new friendships and create bonds that last through their CM experience. English High School Boston Public Schools English High School has hosted a Hale outdoor guide (funded through the generosity of the Liberty Mutual Foundation) since 2022. This guide works with environmental science classes to integrate hands-on outdoor activities. Additionally, English High students have visited Hale for teambuilding, and in 2023, for their first overnight program. Founded in 1821, English High is one of the nation’s oldest high schools. Greater Egleston High School Boston Public Schools Greater Egleston High School (GEHS) began working with Hale in 2020 through Intrepid Academy at Hale. Since 2022, GEHS has also hosted a Hale outdoor guide (funded through the generosity of the Liberty Mutual Foundation) who works with environmental science classes to integrate hands-on outdoor activities. Hale has led a weekly mountain bike club at GEHS, taking students on rides through city green spaces like Franklin Park. The school’s staff has visited Hale annually for teambuilding and professional development opportunities. Jeremiah Burke High School Boston Public Schools Since 2021, Hale has partnered with Burke High School by facilitating its design team’s expansion of the school to serve grades 7 and 8. Burke students have come to Hale for multiple overnight programs, as well as school-wide and all-staff teambuilding. A grant from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s 21st Century Community Learning Center enabled Hale to collaborate with Burke’s middle school staff to host a regular after-school program during the 2022–23 academic year. Margarita Muñiz Academy Boston Public Schools Hale began its partnership with Margarita Muñiz Academy (MMA) in 2020 through Intrepid Academy at Hale (IAH). COVID restrictions required Hale’s staff to travel to Boston and conduct outdoor activities around the city during the school year and throughout the summer. Today, all MMA students visit Hale for a back-to-school teambuilding event, all seniors have an opportunity to attend IAH for eight weeks, and Hale’s professional development staff collaborates with MMA staff in regular “City as Campus” planning meetings. MMA is known for its status as the only dual-language Spanish/English high school in Boston Public Schools. Wellesley Public Schools Since 2010, Hale has partnered with Wellesley Public Schools to host every 5th grader for three days near the end of the school year for robust program that integrates teambuilding and nature-based science. Students from six elementary schools connect and begin building relationships at Hale before they all attend middle school together the following fall. Nearly 300 students benefit from this experience every year. Through this partnership Hale has developed new curricula for ponding and survival skills, and we’re glad to make these innovative experiences available to other clients. Westwood Public Schools Westwood High School students come to Hale every June as part of a J-term session, during which teachers lead creative academic exploration—past examples include carpentry projects and a course on the pursuit of happiness. The Westwood Welcome Club at Thurston Middle School has invited students and families to snowshoe and complete orienteering challenges at Hale. Westwood teachers regularly pursue professional development through Hale, and Westwood students enjoy teambuilding and challenge course experiences. Intrepid Academy at Hale students enjoy daily hot meals from Westwood’s food services. Xaverian Brothers High School Since 2014, Xaverian Brothers High School has held its 9th grade orientation at Hale. Hale has also hosted XB 7th graders for community service annually. In the past, Xaverian Brothers students have participated in an outdoor club at Hale, engaging in winter activities like night hikes and snowshoeing. Explore Hale's Programs for Schools & Colleges Explore All Programs Join the Hale Education Community Contact Us Donate TODAY --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-03-21 - URL: https://hale.education/partners/camps/ Our Partner Camps As Official Partner Camps of Hale, four agencies are able to staff and operate their own summer programs on Hale’s acres of adventure. The Official Partner Camps of Hale Hale provides facilities, a health center, and activity specialists that afford participants from a variety of Greater Boston communities with opportunities to swim, boat, hike, learn about nature, and climb on our challenge courses. Camp Grossman The Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Greater Boston has been operating its traditional Jewish day camp on 75 acres of Hale’s property since 1957. This robust, independent program serves thousands of children each summer. Hale maintains road access and water lines for Camp Grossman and collaborates throughout the summer in various other capacities. 333 Nahanton StreetNewton, MA 02159Agency Phone: 617-244-5124Camp Phone: 781-329-9300 Aspire Hale has partnered with Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) for many decades. Aspire, its year-round program for children, teens, and adults on the autism spectrum, offers a six-week ACA-accredited day camp at Hale each summer. Design and construction of the Simches Family Center accounted for their campers’ sensory needs, and we are proud to collaborate with their leadership team in providing staff training for Hale Summer Camps. 1 Maguire RoadLexington, MA 02421Agency Phone: 781-860-1900Taylor Levesque: 617-999-9135Jenn O’Rourke: 781-645-8364 Camp Baker Hale has partnered with Harvard’s Judge Baker Children’s Center since 2019. The organization operates Camp Baker as part of its Summer Treatment Program (STP) for children with ADHD. The 6-week day camp leverages Hale’s activity specialists to complement the work of its own highly qualified staff. Camp Baker also provide parent training groups throughout the summer to support parents and caregivers. 53 Parker Hill AvenueBoston, MA 02120Sarah Tannenbaum: 617-278-4252 Explore Hale's Summer Programs Explore All Programs Join the Hale Education Community Contact Us Donate TODAY --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2023-10-26 - URL: https://hale.education/partners/ Our Impact Partners Hale has believed in the power of partnership for more than a century. By building and sustaining relationships with camps, schools, and other organizations, we maximize the impact of our facilities and services. Official Partner Camps of Hale Explore Official Partner Schools of Hale explore --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-07-25 - URL: https://hale.education/board/ Meet Our Board Hale's governing and corporate boards include distinguished professionals from a variety of backgrounds and industries. Board of Directors Beth Ann AmendtYuko HandaKait RogersLaura AmicoOnika JenkinsKenneth SallaleTamatha Bibbo, PresidentMichelle KinchJack Sharry, Vice PresidentTimothy CodringtonLewis MartenStephen SoskeAndy CutlerAllison MillerAndrew StauberMary Clare DeckerMichael Moon, TreasurerCurt StevensonMatthew EarleyAlex Oliver-DávilaLauren Zirilli, SecretaryKate Saunders GroveMaria Pinto Corporate Board Tom AaronMichael ElizondoDana PopeJuanita Allen KingsleyMaureen C. EricksonTom PriorJen AntonucciDavid GerberBill ReissfelderDaniel Bailey, IIIPeter S. Gregory*Jay RocheWilliam N. Bancroft*Paul HanleySara RunnelsHarold R. Beacham, Jr. *Bob HanselJohn SalvatoreHarold R. Beacham, IIINancy HardingJean SharryJoel BerkowitzLarry HermanWayne SmithKristine BlueLinda HunterCaryn SteckmestEric BrenmanLouise F. LawrenceDebra SteeleDeb BrennanJohn R. LaytonMason M. Taber, Jr. *Allison BuffMitchell LeimanAmanda Taft-PearmanWalter M. Cabot, Jr. George LesterMichael TerryWilliam ChamberlinDavid LiebrockRichard ThomasMyles CollinsAngela E. LinJudith A. ThomsonTim ConnorsCharles W. LongThomas S. ThornhillJohn Cronin, Jr. Chris McKeownRobert TruesdaleNorth CunninghamPaula McLaughlinPeg UnderhillSally CurranSamuel D. PerryJack WigginRobert A. DempseyCarolyn PopeLisa Wood*Life Member Join the Hale Education Community Contact Us Donate TODAY --- - Published: 2023-06-05 - Modified: 2025-04-03 - URL: https://hale.education/magazine/ Hale Magazine Hale Magazine publishes once per year. A print subscription is one of many annual membership benefits, and we’re pleased to make archived issues digitally available to the public thanks to the generosity of our donors. 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FB3D_CLIENT_DATA || ;FB3D_CLIENT_DATA. push('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');window. FB3D_CLIENT_LOCALE && FB3D_CLIENT_LOCALE. render && FB3D_CLIENT_LOCALE. render; 2021 window. FB3D_CLIENT_DATA = window. 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FB3D_CLIENT_LOCALE && FB3D_CLIENT_LOCALE. render && FB3D_CLIENT_LOCALE. render; Thank You to Our Readers We’re able to offer this annual publication free of charge thanks to the generosity of community members like you. Thank you for your support in bringing people together through education and recreation in the great outdoors. Recent Blog Posts View All Posts --- - Published: 2023-05-30 - Modified: 2024-08-20 - URL: https://hale.education/conservation-sustainability/solar-farm/ Community Solar Garden Hosting a Community Solar Garden is one way Hale is doing its part. You can track our impact and see how solar is saving trees while using the space from a capped landfill. Track our impact Empowering Our Community As we look to the future, it’s readily apparent that we all need to do whatever we can to “go green. ” By hosting a solar garden on our property, we get to share the power of solar energy with you. How Community Solar Shares Reduce Electricity Bills When you sign up for a Community Solar Share you get a boost of solar energy for your home, at a discount, without actually having to install the panels on your roof. There is no up-front cost. Here’s how it works: When your Community Solar Share is generating energy, you receive credit on your regular utility bill, just like you would if you were generating solar energy on your rooftop. You pay 10% less for those credits; for every $10 in Community Solar Share credit you receive, you pay $9 to the Community Solar Garden through your subscription. If you need to move and do so within the utility service area, you can take your Community Solar Share with you. If you move outside the utility service area, all you need to do is find someone local to take your spot. How To Sign Up Customers who purchase solar shares lower their electricity bills and reduce their carbon footprints. This program is fully enrolled at the moment, but space may become available in the future (e. g. when a shareholder moves away). Please contact us if you’d like to learn more. Our Partners Originally developed by BlueWave Solar and built by local contractor Conti Solar, Inc. , our Community Solar Garden is now owned and operated by a subsidiary of Amp Energy. Amp specializes in building, owning, and operating renewable assets around the world. --- - Published: 2023-05-30 - Modified: 2025-02-05 - URL: https://hale.education/conservation-sustainability/conservation-restriction/ Campaign for Kids, Conservation, and Community We met our fundraising goal for conservation in 2024 and are now in the process of filing for one of the largest conservation restrictions in eastern Massachusetts in more than a century. Make Your Gift A Legacy for Generations To Come Together, more than 50 volunteers inspired 3,000+ individuals, foundations, and corporations to commit over $38MM to Hale’s Campaign for Kids, Conservation, and Community. Their generosity is expanding programs, improving facilities, protecting land in perpetuity, and sustaining our work through an endowment. We sincerely thank them for establishing this philanthropic legacy. https://vimeo. com/1019923576 The Campaign's Impact Hale’s century-long commitment to reimagining learning and building community has never been stronger. Our work has impacted millions of lives and continues to be rooted in the belief that nature, education, and recreation inspire us to learn, empower us to lead, and challenge us all to create a world in which people, place, and purpose are united. With that in mind, the Campaign for Kids, Conservation, and Community raised awareness of and support for: Children—We’re expanding our nationally recognized camps and summer learning opportunities, growing a year-round outdoor academic academy, and educating more children about climate resiliency. Facilities—We’re updating, improving, and constructing 20+ facilities that support programs for children and families. Conservation & Sustainability—We’re protecting over 1,100 acres of land from future development and investing Hale’s resources to support long-term sustainability. What's Next To complete the conservation effort, we have submitted legal documents that must be approved by local municipalities and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. That process can take anywhere from 6–18 months and, until it’s complete, a Conservation Restriction (CR) has not officially been placed on the property. Annual support is still needed to sustain Hale’s operations and steward the property. Our Annual Fund guarantees programs thrive and provides over $300K of financial aid to deserving children and families. In addition, facility maintenance and our endowment require ongoing support to keep pace with rising costs. Please consider making a contribution today to support Hale’s work. Make Your gift Frequently Asked Questions What will the campaign funds do? Approximately 38% of campaign funds are designated for endowment, 31% will to be used to repair and upgrade existing infrastructure and facilities, and 31% supports operational needs for existing programs. What is a Conservation Restriction? A Conservation Restriction (CR) is a legal tool that permanently limits how privately owned land can be used. CRs typically restrict the development of large parcels of land. A landowner grants a CR to a qualified holder who is responsible for enforcing the CR. In the case of the Hale CR, The Trustees (formerly The Trustees of Reservations) will serve as the holder of the CR. Conserved land preserves the character of communities. It protects natural open spaces that include watersheds, wildlife habitats, and forests that offer carbon sequestration and mitigate climate change. Outdoor recreation, and the social and physical health benefits it offers, also boosts quality of life. As a community member, how will this benefit me? There are many benefits to placing a CR on Hale’s property. Guaranteed Public Access: The Conservation Restriction (CR) will guarantee public access to over 10 miles of trails. Right now, Hale can restrict access however and whenever it wishes. That would not be the case once the CR is complete. Property Values: Towns with more open space have higher property values. Regardless of where you live in town, open space in your community increases the value of your property. Individual Health: Extensive empirical literature documents the health benefits of nature. The National Library of Medicine has reviewed how nature helps reduce stress, blood pressure, and cortisol levels; boost mood; improve attention and executive functioning; and strengthen immune systems. It has been proven, when nature is in your life, your physical and emotional health improves. Decreased Long-Term Costs for Towns: The CR would last forever and eliminate the possibility of residential development on the property. Residential development is known to cost municipalities and public services more than the tax revenue it generates over time. A CR decreases future costs for the town and its taxpayers. Enhanced Community Resource: Funding that backs the Hale CR supports a community-based organization whose mission is to provide education and recreation programs for all. The funds will provide better opportunities for the community to enjoy all that Hale has to offer. How much will Hale grow in the future? Hale’s camps and educational programs have been receiving accolades across the Commonwealth. Even as more educational institutions see the advantages of project-based learning and outdoor education, growing demand does not mean there will be an increase in the number of people at Hale at any given time, especially during the summer. Hale monitors and limits the number of learners on the property to maintain an optimal outdoor learning environment. Hale’s future plans include spreading programs out over the calendar year by designing more learning opportunities during the fall, winter, and spring. To implement these program objectives, we need to make some physical plant changes. This does not include new access points to Hale or entirely new camp sites. It does include upgrades to and replacement of older buildings. These older buildings are not accessible for people with disabilities, so we intend to bring them up to code while also making them more welcoming to visitors of all abilities. What about municipal funding? The campaign launched with the hope that the municipalities of Westwood and Dover would participate with some funding to purchase the Conservation Restriction. Due to competing projects and legal complexities, the towns were unable to participate within the timeline for completing the campaign. Fortunately, private donors stepped in to make sure the opportunity to protect Hale was not lost. Join the Hale Education Community Contact Us Donate TODAY --- - Published: 2023-05-30 - Modified: 2024-09-13 - URL: https://hale.education/conservation-sustainability/ Conservation and Sustainability Through programs and practices, we encourage people to build relationships with nature that honor our belonging and connection. CAMPAIGN FOR conservation community solar garden A Sustainable Future Nature invites us to listen. It asks us to immerse ourselves in its beauty, and it reminds us that our survival hinges on our ability to live sustainably. As continued development scars our planet, Hale is exploring innovative ways to develop a regenerative business and community, one that actively reverses climate change, heals social systems and ecosystems, and integrates communities with their environments. Current Initiatives Today, Hale is: Exploring the concept of regenerative communities through internal education, public symposia, and curriculum design Working with schools to integrate outdoor education into their curricula and teaching practices Monitoring trails and program sites for erosion and diverting runoff from ponds and streams Limiting the use of fertilizers and road salt, and regularly testing our watershed to ensure ecological health Ongoing Projects Our Community Solar Garden’s array of panels, situated on a capped landfill, allows us to capture and share the sun’s energy with our neighbors. Developed by BlueWave Solar and built by local contractor Conti Solar, the panels are now owned and operated by a subsidiary of Amp Energy. Customers who purchase solar shares lower their electricity bills and reduce their carbon footprints. Please contact us if you'd like to learn more. Hale is also mitigating climate change by increasing its composting efforts. Improperly disposing of biodegradable food not only adds mass to landfills but also contributes to methane emissions, a powerful greenhouse gas. Mindlessly tossing these items harms Earth’s land, water, and energy. Conversely, composting is regenerative. It can support farmers, improve and restore wildlife habitats, and renew contaminated soils. Composting can also reduce methane emissions and improve carbon sequestration in soil. Conservation Efforts Hale is proud to collaborate with several organizations to protect and pursue the conservation of its land. The Westwood Land Trust and Dover Land Conservation Trust work in our local communities to preserve our natural resources and wildlife. The Dover Open Space Committee and Westwood Environmental Action Committee are both proponents of green initiatives and land protection. The Trustees cares for countless special places across Massachusetts and intends to hold the CR. We thank these groups for working alongside Hale to advocate for permanent land protection. Together, we stand united in our belief that this open space plays an invaluable role in our local community and regional ecosystem. Hale's conservation efforts are many years in the making, and we are working hard to secure support and amplify the impact of our community’s investment. Additional details are available on our Conservation Restriction page. Pollinator Pathway Hale is proud to participate in the Pollinator Pathway initiative, which is working to establish pollinator-friendly habitat and food sources for bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinating insects and wildlife. Learn More Public and private pesticide-free corridors of native plants provide nutrition and habitat for pollinating insects and birds. Pollinator Pathway Protect Nature Advocate for conservation, make a donation, explore our programs, and get involved. Join us in promoting land stewardship that creates a brighter tomorrow for future generations. support conservation make your gift --- - Published: 2023-05-30 - Modified: 2023-10-26 - URL: https://hale.education/about/mission/ Our Mission Our belief statement (commonly referred to as our mission) guides us in realizing our founder's vision. Hale believes nature, education, and recreation inspire us to learn, empower us to lead, and challenge us all to create a world in which people, place, and purpose are united. --- - Published: 2023-05-30 - Modified: 2025-03-25 - URL: https://hale.education/about/history/ Our History From Indigenous peoples who first stewarded the land to modern-day programs that foster outdoor learning, our shared history spans thousands of years. Timeline Indigenous Peoples For thousands of years, an Algonquian tribal federation called the Moswetuset—later known as the Massachusett, which translates to “people of the great hills”—occupied what is now eastern Massachusetts. Its tribes included the Powissit, Cowate, Natick, Ponkapoag, Neponset, Pegan, and Wisset, among others. At first, entire tribes moved with the seasons: in the summer, they lived in communal longhouses as they fished and shell fished near the coast; in the winter, they lived in single-family wetus and wigwams as they hunted further inland. Over time, however, the advent of farming resulted in more permanent settlements. Tradition suggests that one such settlement existed south of Hale’s property, in an area known as Powisset Plain. Archaeologists from Harvard’s Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology have determined such sites were in use as early as 3,000 B. C. At Hale, artifacts support this theory. Carby Street, formerly known as “Old Indian Path,” leads to a Native American campsite near Storrow Pond. Its inhabitants quarried felsite—a dense igneous rock that they knapped into arrowheads and tools, such as scrapers, knives, and drills—at nine known sites throughout Hale. They also used a stone adze to carve dugout canoes, which suggests they harvested natural resources from marshland that is now Noanet Pond: reed to make sleeping mats and cover shelters, cattail fluff to pad infants’ breechcloths and diapers, and wild rice to supplement meats, fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Unfortunately, Europeans brought disease, war, and oppression to North America. The Massachusett Federation lost its language and customs as settlers forced its tribes to assimilate. A smallpox epidemic in 1633 ravaged southern New England and further reduced the native population. Descendants of survivors continue to live near Hale and frequent the property today. Colonial Life Notes from Ernest J. Baker tell us that in 1645, Rock Fielde—the seven acres immediately north of present-day Carby Street—was sold to Edward Hawes by Dedham’s first teacher, Ralph Wheelock. He and other early settlers built an extensive network of stone walls to mark property boundaries and confine livestock. These can still be appreciated throughout the property today. Throughout the late 1600s and 1700s, settlers regularly harvested local cedar trees to make clapboards and build split rail fences. Deeds suggest a sawmill stood on Rock Meadow Brook, and the remains of a charcoal kiln were once visible near Powissett Pond. They also built “cart roads” so that teams of oxen could pull carts of timber and charcoal out of the woods for Boston’s ship building and iron industries. By 1717, Old Indian Path “had become so important that the town1 found it necessary to take it over and lay it out as a town road. ” The road’s early monikers included the “Road Leading to Dover,” the “Highway Leading to the Wilderness,” and the “Road Leading to Cedar Swamp. ” But it wasn’t until the early 1800s that it would be renamed for the Carby family, who operated a farm near Cat Rock. As settlers felled trees and farmed, their desire to protect livestock intensified hunting and trapping. Beavers, raccoons, wild turkeys, deer, and even moose were frequently sighted, and settlers were known to use them for food and clothing. But the area was also “‘infested with wolves, bears, and wildcats, as well as foxes and other predatory animals. ’” By 1647, Dedham declared that wolves in particular were “‘greatly anoysome’” to cattle and doubled its ten-shilling bounty to twenty shillings per head. Bears were eradicated by 1730, and the last moose was seen in 1745. Less is known about what happened on the property during the following century, but we believe farming and logging likely subsided as the Industrial Revolution reshaped the nation’s economy. This change would have given way to the second-growth forest we see at Hale today. By the early 1900s, bucolic Cat Rock Pasture was postcard-worthy. 1 of Dedham; Westwood didn’t incorporate until 1897. Scoutland Era The Boy Scouts of America was chartered in 1910, and soon after that, local scouts began exploring the property. On March 11, 1918, Robert Sever Hale officially invited them to use his land, and by 1923, camping was in full swing at Hale. Mr. Hale led the construction of a dam on the east side of Goat Island2 in 1926. On August 12 of that year, he checked the flow of Wilson’s Brook (now Powissett Brook) and Storrow Pond resulted. The camp’s original building, “a picturesque log hut3 constructed under the directions of Herman Templeton, a Rangeley, Maine, guide who the scouts woodcraft,” stood on its shore. Nelson House (at that time known as “Ye Olde Trading Post,” and later referred to as “The Chapel”) was also erected between 1925 and 1927, purportedly by Italian bricklayer Rumelio Luttazi. Nelson House was originally used to sell canned goods and rent pup tents, blankets, mattresses, and water bags; it was subsequently converted to serve as a place of nondenominational worship. Restored4 in 1961 and renamed yet again, it is now officially The Robert Sever Hale Memorial Building. In the 1930s, a new Trading Post appeared across the street. Campers gathered there to purchase supplies and recount stories. After numerous additions and renovations, this Trading Post was demolished in 2008. The present-day Trading Post stands on its footprint. Scoutland continued to thrive during the 1930s under the direction of Mr. Hale. Scouts built more than 40 cabins throughout the property; the present-day Carby House and Main Office served as the ranger’s and superintendent’s homes (respectively). Dover Road was described at that time as a “winding, tortuous route through wild, rocky country,” and as the reservation expanded, Carby Street—a “narrow rough road bordered by a second-growth forest... for hardy souls only”—served as its primary entrance, although Grove Street was used as well. Powissett Pond served as Hale’s go-to spot for a quick dip; scouts, as well as residents who purchased club memberships, were free to enjoy its 12 acres of water. Throughout his time as head of Scoutland, Mr. Hale regularly wrote and published The New England Steam Kettle. In it, he described himself as an individual who wanted to let readers know what he and others thought. The publication served as a clearinghouse for anyone who wished to express their own ideas and opinions, and he honored authors’ requests for anonymity and eagerly solicited subscriptions, news, and controversial articles. “The Steam Kettle,” Mr. Hale wrote, “aims to have hot water up to its neck while it sings merrily all the time. The fuel for its fire is provided by Robert. S. Hale as chief offender. ” Readers could purchase issues in person for 3 cents per copy, or pay 5 cents per copy to receive the publication by mail. Mr. Hale passed away on Dec. 31, 1941 and bequeathed his land so that it could be used “to develop intelligent, capable, and responsible citizens. ” 2 Goat Island refers to the large rock on the shore of Storrow Pond. 3 built in 1926 and destroyed by fire in the early 1950s; its chimney (built in 1928) remains. 4 under the direction of Louis Grunner and Walter W. Nutile. Modern Times Over time, the organization’s attention turned away from scouting and it began to develop its own programs. The “Rangers” program emulated military battalions and practiced leadership skills as they stewarded the property during hard times, and in 1949, the organization was renamed in Mr. Hale’s honor. But by the mid-1950s, it was in a full-blown financial crisis. Having relied too heavily on the United Community Services (UCS) for income, Hale’s board was faced with a most difficult decision when UCS dissolved the partnership: Should they sell a significant piece of the property to salvage what they could for the future? Hale was never a cash-rich organization, and hundreds of acres would surely appeal to residential builders looking for land in the beautiful suburbs of Boston. Others hoped to establish a 70-acre gravel pit on the property. By selling 500 of the more than 800 acres, Hale’s managers hoped to create an endowment large enough to support the remaining 325-acre property. But on August 15, 1956, a motion to dissolve the board of directors forever changed the trajectory of the organization. A special meeting of managers convened to better represent participating agencies and “avoid liquidation of any of the and to maintain it intact as a community asset. ” While this change of heart was a relief, the new board needed a financially viable business plan. They increased programming and made capital improvements to increase interest in Hale. They also entered a 99-year lease with the Jewish Community Center (JCC), which to this day runs Camp Grossman on Hale’s property. Cash from that lease enabled Hale to purchase more land surrounding Powissett Pond and provided funds to create what would become Noanet Pond. Construction began near the end of 1962, as confirmed by then-executive-director Lon Smith’s late-October statement to The Westwood Press. He announced that the U. S. Soil Conservation Service5 and Norfolk County Soils Conservation District would support the design and construction of the 1,200-foot dam. Great care was taken to perform water drainage studies for the 60-acre pond, and engineer Henry Ritzer was personally commended for generously lending his time and expertise to the endeavor. By the mid-1960s, Noanet Pond—its name appropriated from a fictional account6 of an actual Native American chief—was open for use. Capable of serving up to 600 families, the property’s new focal point offered members-only access to two beaches. Members of the Dover-Westwood Conservation Club (now Hale's Family and Community Program) frequented the pond’s southern shore. Its northern shore was (and continues to be) “reserved for youth charity organizations from Metropolitan Boston. ” There was a problem, though: Smith and his team had secured funds for the dam, beaches, roads, and parking lots, but they had yet to raise enough money for facilities. The impact of this is still evident: while beautifully landscaped, South Beach and North Beach feature few permanent structures. Construction of a modern restroom facility at South Beach brought Hale one step closer to fully realizing the Noanet Pond Construction Committee’s vision for the area. As the environmental education movement gained traction in the ‘60s and ‘70s, Executive Director James Earley recognized that society’s attention was turning to the natural world and he began repositioning Hale as a “center for outdoor education in the community and in the area. ” In 1969, The Patriot Ledger reported on his plans for a new trail system7 that would include trails for people with disabilities and expand public access. Numerous schools started participating in Hale’s programs. Hale Day Camp and the Official Partner Camps of Hale thrived under his leadership. Earley doubled down on Mr. Hale’s focus on serving youth, particularly “overlooked” teenagers in need of “wise recreation. ” 5 The U. S. Soil Conservation Service is now known as the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. Congress established the agency in 1935 when it recognized that wasting natural resources such as soil and moisture menaced national welfare. Hugh Hammond Bennett, a surveyor and the agency’s first chief, believed that “land must be nurtured; not plundered and wasted. ” Its work was supported by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the Civil Works Administration (CWA), and the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Since 1944, SCS, now NRCS, has constructed nearly 11,000 dams on some 2,000 watershed projects that continue to provide flood control, water supplies, recreation, and wildlife habitat benefits. 6 King Noanett written by Dedham resident Frederic Jesup Stimson in 1895. 7 including the Allan S. Beale Nature Trail and Split Rock Trail. Present-Day Hale’s past is echoed in today’s programs. We continue to provide first-rate outdoor learning opportunities through our summer camps, family and community programs, after-school clubs and extracurricular activities, experiential learning programs for schools and colleges, youth leadership development programs, and professional development for adults. During Eric Arnold’s tenure as executive director from 2001–2024, Hale substantially expanded academic, community, and corporate partnerships. Collaboration with Boston Public Schools gave rise to Hale Outdoor Learning Adventures and Intrepid Academy at Hale. In accordance with our values and through the generosity of donors, Hale continued to welcome the public to responsibly recreate here—and community members rallied to raise $38MM through the Campaign for Kids, Conservation, and Community. This historic effort paved the way for a conservation restriction on more than 1,100 acres. As Executive Director Aaron Morehouse begins charting Hale's future, we continue to appreciate the shared history of our land and organization. Mr. Hale expected that his property would be used to develop intelligent, capable, and responsible citizens, and we’re proud to carry that mission forward into Hale’s next century. Founder Robert Sever Hale was born to George Silsbee Hale, a prominent attorney, and Ellen Sever Hale on October 3, 1869. He graduated from Harvard in 1891, completed a two-year graduate course in mechanical lines at Cornell in 1893, and went on to work as a research engineer at the Edison Electric Illumination Company. A “wealthy society man” whose family maintained homes in Boston’s Back Bay and Bar Harbor, Maine, Mr. Hale took up residence at the exclusive Tennis and Racquet Club. While at Lucerne in 1912, Mr. Hale met 27-year-old milliner and international beauty prize winner May N. Wilson of Boston. Ms. Wilson was a daughter of John T. Wilson of Glasgow. The two were married in Boston by the Rev. Dr. A. A. Berle on December 23, 1913. A “society sensation,” their wedding made national news and was announced in the New York Times, Chicago Daily Tribune, and San Francisco Call and Post, among others. The couple boarded the Lusitania and honeymooned abroad. It was during the final years of Mr. Hale’s marriage (which ended in 1922) that Lord Robert Baden-Powell, who is widely regarded as the father of the scouting movement, wrote Rovering to Success. The book detailed how young men could continue their personal development during adulthood. Baden-Powell’s service-based philosophy captivated Mr. Hale, who by 1918 had already begun permitting local Boy Scout troops to use his land (known at that time as the Dover-Westwood Scout Reservation). A staunch advocate of self-reliance, he began publishing newsletters in earnest and quickly established the epicenter of Rover Scouting in New England. In the midst of the Great Depression, Mr. Hale chartered Scoutland with his brother, Boston lawyer Richard Walden Hale, on May 19, 1930. Throughout the following decade he led various efforts to improve the organization’s communications, finances, infrastructure, and ecosystems. He was a major proponent of education: In addition to launching a book rental program for scouts, Mr. Hale personally funded scholarships for Harvard students to work at Scoutland. In addition to writing extensively about scouting, Mr. Hale published two books, The Language of Economics and Ethics (1936) and The Revolution in Economics (1938). In the latter, he aimed to address “those who are willing to... --- - Published: 2023-05-30 - Modified: 2025-06-19 - URL: https://hale.education/about/ Uniting People, Place, and Purpose About Hale Hale connects people from all walks of life with the outdoors, inviting generations of explorers to enjoy and protect the natural environment. Together, We Are Hale From students to campers to dog walkers to artists, Hale empowers people by giving them the resources and space needed to learn. https://player. vimeo. com/video/832717608 A Place of Growth for Everyone Our programs and work span Hale’s 1,200 acres and beyond. Our ponds, trails, plants, animals, birds, fish, and insects spark curiosity. Lifelong learners enjoy limitless opportunities for growth and discovery here, whether they’re overcoming a fear of heights on the challenge course or spying a family of deer along a trail. Whether they’re ascending Powissett Peak, performing in a talent show, or learning about leadership development, our community members challenge themselves, channel their creativity, and develop a deep sense of compassion for the world. Tomorrow's Leaders We’re creating a stronger tomorrow by offering innovative programs for all ages. Opportunities for personal growth, such as Youth Leadership Development Programs and Volunteer Opportunities bring creative and talented people together and offer them the necessary tools to become future leaders. Students & Educators Hale customizes and delivers high-quality adventures for schools and their students. Our professional facilitators lead programs such as Hale Outdoor Learning Adventures, Intrepid Academy at Hale, and Field Trips, which blend academic content with hands-on outdoor learning. Hale programs strengthen relationships and safely challenge participants to reach objectives and goals. Kids & Families Kids and family members immerse themselves in our programs and activities year-round. During the summer, we invite campers to make friends at Hale Day Camp, build outdoor skills at Hale Adventure Camp, shred trails at Hale Mountain Biking Camp, or hang out with friends and neighbors in our Family & Community Program. We also host a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year that invite participants to gather, learn, and appreciate nature.   Donors Hale’s efforts to preserve and protect our land, serve as a community resource, and offer best-in-class programs wouldn’t be possible without the support of our donors. Through their financial support, generous individuals, foundations, and corporations help maintain the integrity of our property and ensure the local community can continue to call Hale a sanctuary for outdoor recreation and education. Outdoor Enthusiasts Whether you’re a dog walker, mountain biker, trail runner, or cross-country skier, you’ll discover endless opportunities to stay active outdoors throughout the year. We invite you to plan your visit by exploring activities and charting your course before setting out on Hale’s 1,200 acres of adventure. Learn More About Hale Inspired by the Past, Dedicated to the Future We’ve been changing lives by connecting people to the outdoors for more than a century. Learn about the history, mission, and impact of our programs. Our History The land we now call “Hale” has a long and rich natural history, and served as hunting, fishing, and gathering grounds for Indigenous peoples. In 1918, Robert Sever Hale first made it available to scouts from Greater Boston communities, inviting them to build shelters, camp, and farm. Originally dubbed “Scoutland,” the organization evolved to become an invaluable community asset that “develops intelligent, capable, and responsible citizens. ” Mr. Hale’s vision and land bequest set the stage for Hale Reservation, which flourished as a center for outdoor education in the 1960s and '70s. Today, Hale Education is reimagining learning through its camps, academic partnerships, and as a community resource. explore OUR History Our Mission Hale exists to unite people in diverse learning communities that build meaningful relationships, bridge connections to the natural world, and develop common goals. Our belief statement articulates the importance of providing activities, events, and programs that make outdoor learning accessible for all. reAD What We Believe Our Impact Every learner belongs at Hale. Through camps, school programs, professional development, public events, and open space, we spark curiosity and bring friends, neighbors, parents, students, donors, and outdoor enthusiasts together to build connections and close the nature and opportunity gaps. Our long-standing partnerships with local organizations extend Hale’s impact. SEE OUR IMPACT Join the Hale Education Community Donate TODAY EXPLORE PROGRAMS --- - Published: 2023-05-05 - Modified: 2025-07-25 - URL: https://hale.education/team/ Meet Our Team Hale's inclusive community warmly welcomes everyone. We invite you to learn about the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our team members. We Believe in Nature, Education, and Recreation Whether we're working at desks in cabins, facilitating programs in trees, or teaching kids to float in ponds, our team thrives in non-traditional learning and work environments. Join Our Team Meet Our Board of Directors Our governing and corporate boards work together to ensure more children and families have opportunities to learn about nature, themselves, and each another. Board members’ backgrounds span education, construction, law, finance, and communications. Meet Our Board Join The Hale Education Community Volunteer to support a program. Help steward a trail. Apply for an open position. Express interest in joining our board. There are countless ways you can get involved. Contact Us Employment opportunities --- - Published: 2023-04-18 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://hale.education/about/impact/ Our Impact Robert Sever Hale wished for us to engage with this space, and each other, in ways that are "charitable and benevolent in nature... to provide education which will develop intelligent, capable, and responsible citizens. " Make Your Gift Impact Report Hale's Impact Areas Our program's serve several thousand children and families from 70+ Greater Boston communities annually, and invite visitors to enjoy our 1,200 acres of forests, ponds, and meadows in Westwood and Dover, Massachusetts.   Reimagining Learning Education can be pursued outside classrooms, and information can be found beyond books. Everyone is a learner at Hale, and we help each other grow in the great outdoors. Building Community Community inspires. As the number of digital distractions increases, belonging to an authentic community has never been more important. Achieving Equity Equity requires access. Hale nurtures partnerships that serve more than 70 communities throughout Greater Boston. Fostering Wellness Wellness is multidimensional. It’s conscious, self-directed, and deeply personal, and it’s defined by our daily choices. Protecting Nature Nature matters. Hale serves as a leader in protecting and educating people about it. Even as it serves as a resource for communities. Our Programs If you believe in what Hale Education stands for, see our community in action today. EXPLORE PROGRAMS Impact Partners The Official Partner Camps and Schools of Hale deliver programs in close collaboration with our staff. Hale's facilities and activity specialists afford participants from their respective communities with opportunities to swim, boat, hike, learn about nature, and climb on our challenge courses. Learn ABOUT OUR PARTNERS Annual Impact Reports More information about these reports, and copies of reports from previous years, are available by request. Contact Us 2024 2023 2022 2021 Join the Hale Education Community Make a Gift Explore Programs --- - Published: 2023-04-18 - Modified: 2025-07-03 - URL: https://hale.education/visit/ Visitor Guidelines Hale is open to the public for passive recreation every day, all year. Visitor guidelines, trail maps, and information about activities, hours, and parking are available below. Pay Daily Parking Fee Annual Parking Pass Welcome to Hale Hale is a private nonprofit that warmly welcomes visitors. While we invite the general public to freely use our trails, please know that on-site parking requires payment of a $10 daily parking fee (upon arrival; contactless payment is available and strongly encouraged) or purchase of an annual membership valid from Mar. 1, 2023 through Feb. 28, 2024. Members of Indigenous tribes are welcome to park free of charge. Please review and abide by the following guidelines as you explore the property. We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to seeing you on the trails soon. Before Your Adventure Consider the weather, check current hours, make sure enough daylight remains, and note any trail closures.  Trail conditions, weather, programs, and special events necessitate changes from time to time, so double-check Hale’s website and social media. Remember to pack gear that ensures safety and comfort, including layers, water, a snack, hats, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent, a headlamp or flashlight, first aid kit, trail map, and compass. Do not bring private watercraft, all-terrain vehicles, motorized dirt bikes, firearms, fireworks, alcohol, or drugs. These are all strictly prohibited at Hale. Dogs At Hale Our canine friends may accompany all visitors between Labor Day and Memorial Day.  Members may bring their dogs to Hale during the summer months, too. Keep in mind all dogs must be licensed, vaccinated, well-behaved, and in good health.  No more than two dogs may accompany each visitor at any given time. Dogs are not permitted on fields, playgrounds, beaches, or in ponds. Each dog must be on a leash and under its owner’s control at all times. Owners are responsible for bagging and properly disposing of pet waste; trash bins are located at major trailheads. Please note that hired dog-walkers may not provide services at Hale. Annual Parking Pass Benefit: Passholders may bring their dogs onto Hale’s property between sunrise and 8 AM seven days a week; from 4:30 PM until closing time Monday through Friday; and anytime during the day on weekends. For the safety of several hundred campers and program participants, during the summer, dogs are not allowed on the Red Trail or in the vicinity of Noanet Pond and must be leashed at all times, regardless of where they may be on Hale’s property. Failure to comply with this policy may result in suspension or revocation of your annual parking pass and/or changes to these terms. Getting To Hale Hale’s Main Office is located at 80 Carby Street, Westwood, MA. Access the following sites via this entrance (lots require payment of a $10 Daily Parking Fee or an Annual Parking Pass): Andrew Cucchiara Learning Center (ACLC)—Pass the Main Office on the left and turn right. Continue up the hill and into the ACLC’s gravel parking lot. Cat Rock Parking Lot—Pass the Main Office on the left and continue to the first paved parking area on the left. North Beach—Park in Cat Rock Parking Lot. Follow the dirt road to the right of the bulletin board. At the end of the road, turn left to get to the beach. Powissett Lodge—Pass the Main Office on the left. Continue for about 1. 5 miles. The parking area is on the left, and Powissett Lodge is a short walk up the road. Trading Post and Simches Family Center—Pass the Main Office on the left. Continue for about 1 mile. You will pass a small island in the road, turn sharply up a hill, and pass the Trading Post on the right. Park in the gravel lot on the left, opposite the Trading Post. South Beach has a separate entrance (open seasonally) and requires the purchase of a South Beach Day Pass or Family & Community Program Season Pass. From Route 109, turn onto Dover Road and continue for about 1 mile. South Beach’s entrance is on the right, opposite 576 Dover Road; its blue street sign reads “Bruné Way. ” Once You Arrive Parking on site requires payment of a $10 daily parking fee (upon arrival; contactless payment is available and strongly encouraged) or purchase of an Annual Parking Pass valid from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. Hale also welcomes members of Indigenous tribes free of charge. Be sure to read “Activities at Hale” below for more information about what you can (and can’t) do at Hale! Know the speed limit and park in a lot.  The speed limit is 15 miles per hour throughout Hale. Thank you for driving carefully to ensure the safety of people, dogs, and wildlife. Parking is only allowed in designated parking areas; roadside parking is not allowed. Chart your course.  Hale boasts many miles of trails and three ponds (Noanet, Powissett, and Storrow).  Download a trail map or pick one up at the Main Office, familiarize yourself with the property, and orient yourself before you set out. Learn to use a map and compass if you plan to explore, and observe any trail closure or detour signs you may encounter. Do not rely on a GPS device or your smartphone, as many areas of Hale lack cell service. Remember to tell a friend or family member where you plan to go and when you plan to return. Observe the Leave No Trace Seven Principles.  Any visitor who defaces, damages, or removes plants, trees, signs, posters, barriers, buildings, or other elements—natural or built—may be banned from Hale. Take only photos—and know that our staff might capture a few of you, too! All visitors are subject to Hale’s Media Policy, and by visiting, you consent to its terms. Consult a Trail Map Download Hale's trail map to navigate the property. Third-party apps can also be an excellent resource, but keep in mind Hale does not endorse these tools or monitor user-generated data (and wireless isn't reliably available in many parts of Hale). DOwnload Hale’s Trail Map Activities At Hale Visitors (this includes people who have paid Hale's Daily Parking Fee and Annual Parking Pass holders who are visiting for passive recreation) may NOT swim, boat, camp, build fires, hunt, or trap.  Please refrain from using program areas when activities are underway. Private watercraft are not permitted on Hale’s ponds. Ice skaters should note that any pond ice is not monitored. Picnicking Visitors and families are welcome to picnic at Hale. No barbecuing is allowed. Fishing No license required! Private watercraft and baitfish are banned. Catch-and-release is encouraged. Each visitor may keep two trout, two bass, and unlimited sunfish. Horseback Riding Equestrians are welcome! Please avoid heavily used areas. Ideal riding areas are south of the East/West Fire Road and south of Powisset Street. Hiking Twenty miles of trails traverse the property. Remember to download a map, assess conditions, and share your route with a friend or family member. Mountain Biking A variety of terrain appeals to all skill levels. Before you ride, please click below for important information. Snowshoeing Hale is beautiful after a heavy snowstorm. If you're familiar with the property and winter orienteering, snowshoeing can reveal areas you've never accessed. Trail Running There's a reason trail running clubs love Hale. Lace up, leave paved roads, and you will too. Cross-Country Skiing Ski snow-covered roads and trails at your own risk—they aren't groomed! But after big storms, they naturally lend themselves to this winter pastime. South Beach Lovingly dubbed "the best beach in the world," South Beach is accessible to the public by way of a South Beach Day Pass or Hale's Family and Community Program. Please note that Hale's standard $10 Daily Parking Fee is for lots accessible via our 80 Carby Street entrance and does not grant access to South Beach parking lots or services—those require a South Beach Day Pass or program enrollment. South Beach Day Pass From June 30–Aug. 24, South Beach is open on weekdays from 9 AM–7 PM and on weekends from 10 AM–6 PM. Available for purchase at South Beach, the South Beach Day Pass (SBDP) includes access to Hale's South Entrance parking lots, our private beach with open swimming and boating, beach toys, picnic areas, playgrounds, restrooms, rinse stations, volleyball and basketball courts, canoes, kayaks, and more. SBDPs cost $15 per person, per day, up to a maximum of $50 per passenger vehicle. Passes are just $5 per person after 5 PM. South Beach is always free for babies and toddlers under the age of 2. Please note that SBDPs do not include swimming lessons or boating lessons (sessions of Swimming Lessons are available à la carte, and boating lessons require enrollment in Hale's Family and Community Program). SBDPs are only available upon arrival, space permitting. Hale's South Entrance is located at Bruné Way (next to 573 Dover Road, Westwood). Please call ahead to check if the beach is already at capacity: 781-326-8985. Get Directions Family & Community Program Summer is more fun with family, friends, and neighbors! With unparalleled access to Hale’s 1,200 acres of adventure that include 20+ miles of trails, South Beach is home base for our Family & Community Program. It offers a secluded place to disconnect from devices and reconnect with each other. Season passes offer beach access, open swimming, open boating, and community events. Passholders enjoy pre-season and post-season beach access, annual parking at Hale, and a 30% discount on swimming lessons! Learn More Swimming Lessons Our à la carte swimming lessons are taught by American Red Cross-certified Water Safety Instructors. Two-week sessions offer six levels of daily lessons so students can continually build on progress—most of them advance at least one full level per summer! Instructors use tried-and-true teaching techniques to meet children's developmental needs. Both group and private lessons are available. Family & Community Program passholders enjoy a 30% discount on lessons. Learn More Hours Main Entrance Carby Street Access to the property via Hale’s main entrance at 80 Carby Street changes throughout the year. Hale hosts many programs during the summer, so for the safety of our campers, families, and staff members, access is limited on weekdays during that time. Public restrooms are not available. Hale's main entrance is currently open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. DATES (2025)Open TimeClose TImeJan. 1–March 88 AM5 PMMarch 9–April 308 AM7 PMMay 1–June 128 AM8 PMJune 13–Aug. 24 (Weekdays)4:30 PM8 PMJune 13–Aug. 24 (Weekends)8 AM8 PMAug. 25–Sept. 308 AM7 PMOct. 1–Dec. 318 AM5 PM South Entrance Bruné Way Access to the property via Hale’s south entrance on Bruné Way (opposite 576 Dover Road) is only available for Family & Community Program participants, special events, and private rentals. Public restrooms are not available. This area may be reached on foot or by bike—if you plan to do that, we recommend parking at Powissett Lodge or Noanet Landing (both accessible via Hale's main entrance). DATESOpen TimeClose TImeJan. 1–May 23ClosedClosedMay 24–June 22 (Weekends Only)12 PM6 PMJune 30–Aug. 24 (Weekdays)9 AM7 PMJune 30–Aug. 24 (Weekends)10 AM6 PMAug. 25–3112 PM6 PMSept. 1–Dec. 31ClosedClosed Sen Ki The Land of Stone Sen Ki (which means "Land of Stone") is open for public access throughout the year from dawn to dusk. This 30-acre parcel sits between High Street and Hartford Street in Westwood. Please note that dogs and bikes are not permitted at Sen Ki. Restrooms are not available. Sen Ki is currently the only portion of Hale's property protected by a conservation restriction, which is held by Westwood Land Trust. Parking Parking is available in lots accessible via Hale’s 80 Carby Street entrance in accordance with the dates and hours posted above. There are two ways you can park at Hale: Pay a Daily Parking Fee ($10 per vehicle, per day), or Obtain an Annual Parking Pass by Directly registering for one of our many programs that include it as a benefit, or Making a gift of $60 or more using the form below. Hale is a 501(c)(3) organization, and gifts to Hale are generally tax deductible (please consult your tax professional for more information). Our EIN is 04-2111550. If you have a question about your tax statement or giving record, email giving@hale. education or call 781-326-1770. Annual Parking Pass Upcoming Events Explore All EVents Preserve And Support Hale We rely on support from outdoor enthusiasts like you! Please consider a gift to preserve the land and support our programs. Donate Contact Us --- - Published: 2023-02-09 - Modified: 2025-01-02 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/ Hale Blog Join The Hale Education Community Today Contact us Donate --- - Published: 2018-05-17 - Modified: 2025-07-14 - URL: https://hale.education/ Uniting People, Place, and Purpose through nature, education, and recreation Welcome to Hale Education We're a private nonprofit widely recognized for our flagship camps, youth programs, family and community activities, school partnerships, and professional development opportunities. For more than a century, we've been helping people learn, grow, and thrive in the outdoors. Our Story Summer Programs There's still time to register for upcoming sessions of Hale Summer Camps and our Family and Community Program. Sign up today! Explore Summer Programs What We Do We serve thousands of children, families, friends, and neighbors from 70+ Greater Boston communities every year. Programs Dozens of programs that span a variety of fields, interests, and ages Hale offers education and recreation for everyone. From day camps for kids and a summer program for families, to teambuilding, field trips, and challenge course initiatives for schools and organizations, we reimagine learning and build community year-round. Explore Programs Professional Development The skills, capacity, and confidence to lead schools and organizations Hale promotes lifelong learning. The Perrone-Sizer Institute offers graduate credit and supports qualification for principal licensure. We also provide coaching and consulting services, plus a variety of courses and workshops. Discover how our professional development opportunities can advance your career. Meet Our Faculty Public Use 1,200 acres of adventure for personal recreation and community events More than 20 miles of trails meander along forests, ponds, and meadows, and regular events—including equinox and solstice hikes, community beach days, and concerts, classes, and clinics in everything from painting to mountain biking—promote well-being. explore public use Featured Programs Explore All Programs Our Mission and Impact Hale believes nature, education, and recreation inspire us to learn, empower us to lead, and challenge us all to create a world in which people, place, and purpose are united. Our work spans five areas. Reimagining Learning Education can be pursued outside classrooms, and information can be found beyond books. Everyone is a learner at Hale, and we help each other grow in the great outdoors. Building Community Community inspires, and belonging to one has never been more important. Hale is a community of communities—one that welcomes a variety of ideas and interests, and honors a shared history that spans generations. Achieving Equity Equity requires access. Hale aims to close the nature and opportunity gaps, and nurtures partnerships that make outdoor learning available to all. Fostering Wellness Wellness is multidimensional. It’s conscious, self-directed, and deeply personal, and it’s defined by our daily choices. Hale promotes the care of mind, body, and spirit. Protecting Nature Nature matters, and it must be protected. Hale educates people about the many plants, animals, birds, fish, and insects that call its property home, and instills appreciation and respect for our planet. Our Impact Hale Education lives its mission every day in so many ways. See Our Impact “Students are being challenged mentally. They’re being challenged physically. They’re being pushed to make new friends, and to get along with other kids they have never met before. This is an incredible program. ” Resources --- --- ## Posts - Published: 2025-08-14 - Modified: 2025-08-14 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/caring-for-our-water-how-you-can-help-protect-noanet-pond-and-the-charles-river-watershed/ Water is one of our region’s most precious and vulnerable resources. At Hale, we’re fortunate to steward Noanet Pond, a beautiful and ecologically important body of water that’s almost entirely within our boundaries. It may seem small, but it plays a big role in the health of our surrounding environment, especially as part of the Charles River Watershed. A watershed is an area of land where all the water drains to a common outlet — in this case, the Charles River. That means every stream, brook, and pond within the watershed contributes to the health of the river itself. Noanet Pond is one of those contributors, and how we care for it matters. Unlike rivers or ocean beaches, which often suffer from runoff from roads, agriculture, and development, our pond’s threats are more localized and manageable. The biggest concerns are humans, dogs, and geese. Hale’s operations team works year-round to monitor and protect water quality. “We regularly test Noanet Pond in accordance with state guidelines to ensure it's safe for swimming, paddling, and wildlife,” says Tyler Simpson, Hale’s Director of Operations. “But keeping the water clean requires community effort — it’s not something we can do alone. ” That’s why Hale takes proactive steps, like reducing the impact of waterfowl and maintaining buffer zones around the pond to minimize erosion. Still, one of the most impactful ways to protect Noanet Pond, and the greater watershed, is simple: Pick up after your dog. No matter where you are — even if you’re far from the water — rain can carry pet waste into streams, ponds, and rivers. If you’re visiting Hale, please don’t allow your dog to run around on beaches or swim in ponds; it’s actually against the rules! Keeping our water healthy ensures that you, your neighbors, and future generations can continue to enjoy it. Hale’s mission is to connect people to nature, and water plays a vital role in that connection. With your help, we can keep our pond, and the watershed it supports, clean, healthy, and thriving. Want to learn more about watersheds or how Hale protects its natural resources? Join one of our community tours during the summer, or visit us for a hike! --- - Published: 2025-08-06 - Modified: 2025-08-06 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/how-to-pack-the-perfect-picnic-for-a-day-at-hale/ Mid-August is the sweet spot of summer. The days are long, the evenings are warm, and there’s still time to slow down. If you’re looking for a simple way to reconnect with nature, pack a picnic and make the short drive to Hale’s trails and ponds in Westwood. Whether you’re coming solo, with a partner, friends, or with the whole family, a little preparation can turn an ordinary outing into a memorable experience. Start by thinking about the kind of food that will taste good after having fun in the sun. Cold pasta salad tossed in olive oil, crisp vegetables rolled into wraps, juicy slices of watermelon, and a handful of nuts or dried fruit can go a long way. Cheese and crackers are always a win, especially if you keep them cool in an insulated bag. Frozen water bottles serve a double purpose: they’ll keep everything chilled, and you’ll have something cold to sip once you arrive. Once you’ve got your meal, consider where you’ll sit. A classic picnic blanket is great on dry ground, but if it’s been damp lately, you might want to pack a tarp or folding chairs. Even a yoga mat can make an uneven spot feel more comfortable. Just don’t forget the sunscreen and bug spray. One of the best things about Hale is that your picnic isn’t the whole experience—it’s just the beginning, or maybe the reward. Before you eat, you can walk through the woods on the Page and Sadie trail. After lunch, lie in a field and watch clouds drift by. Kids love Hale’s natural playscape, and everyone can appreciate its peace and quiet. As always, we ask visitors to leave no trace. Bring reusable containers and utensils when you can, and carry out whatever you carry in. A small trash bag and a few wet wipes will come in handy, especially if you’re traveling with young adventurers. Hale is a shared space, and your care helps keep it beautiful. So before summer slips away, grab a cooler, load up the car, and carve out a few hours to enjoy something simple: fresh air, good food, and the kind of quiet you can’t find just anywhere. We’ll be here when you’re ready. --- - Published: 2025-07-22 - Modified: 2025-07-23 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/5-tips-for-hiking-with-young-kids/ How to Turn Family Outdoor Adventures into Lasting Memories Hiking with young kids isn’t about logging miles or reaching impressive elevations. It’s about building curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong connection to the outdoors. At Hale, we see every day how even the shortest trails can spark awe when experienced through a child’s eyes. Whether you’re exploring our 20+ miles of trails or a local loop near home, these five tips will help make your outing fun, low-stress, and memorable for all the right reasons. 1. Let Curiosity Set the Pace Young hikers are natural explorers. A stick becomes a magic wand. A puddle turns into a science experiment. Instead of rushing to a destination, let their wonder lead the way. Allow plenty of time for discovery, and treat the hike as a sensory adventure—not just a walk in the woods. “When children are given freedom to explore, they build deeper connections with the world around them. Following their curiosity is one of the best ways to begin. ” Aaron Morehouse, Ph. D. Executive Director, Hale Education 2. Make It a Game Turn the trail into a scavenger hunt. Count how many birds you can hear, look for rocks that resemble familiar shapes, or spot different shades of green. Printable scavenger hunt templates make it easy to get started. For older kids, kick it up a notch with geocaching, a real-world treasure hunt using GPS to find hidden containers along the trail. Whether it’s spotting pinecones or tracking coordinates, playful exploration keeps kids engaged and excited. 3. Pack Snacks, Then Pack More Nothing motivates a kid like snacks. Bring a mix of healthy treats — think fresh fruit, granola bites, or trail mix — and use them as rewards along the way. Create simple “trail incentives” by setting mini-goals: “When we make it to that big rock, we’ll have apple slices,” or “At the top of this hill, it’s time for a granola break! ” These little motivators help break the hike into manageable sections and keep spirits high. A special “summit snack” (even if the summit is just a picnic table) gives kids something to look forward to and makes the experience feel celebratory. 4. Give Kids a Role Kids love responsibility. Let them carry their own small backpack, hold the trail map, or lead the way for a stretch. When they feel like they’re part of the adventure — rather than just along for the ride — they’ll be more engaged, focused, and confident. If they have a camera or notebook, encourage them to document their discoveries and share what they notice along the way. 5. Celebrate Small Wins (and Plan Ahead) Even short hikes can feel like epic adventures for little legs. Set achievable goals and celebrate every milestone, whether it’s reaching a scenic lookout or spotting a frog near the water’s edge. Planning ahead helps: Use Hale’s trail map to pick a route with highlights like boardwalks, bridges, or pond views. When kids know what to expect — and you’re prepared for detours and breaks — you’ll all enjoy the journey more. Final Thought The goal of hiking with young kids isn’t perfection — it’s presence. At Hale, we believe that early positive experiences in nature help kids grow into resilient, curious, and compassionate people. So take your time, follow their lead, and let the outdoors do what it does best: inspire. Explore our Visit page for more information about hiking and other outdoor activities you and your little ones can enjoy at Hale. --- - Published: 2025-07-20 - Modified: 2025-08-13 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/if-we-want-young-people-to-care-about-the-climate-start-by-getting-them-outside/ Ask young people how they feel about climate change, and you’ll hear fear, frustration, even despair. That concern is backed by data. A global study published in The Lancet found that 85 percent of young people worry about climate change. More than half, 58 percent, report feeling very or extremely worried. Here in Massachusetts, where sea levels are rising and extreme weather is becoming more common, those numbers are likely even higher. Continue Reading Related Posts View All Posts --- - Published: 2025-07-15 - Modified: 2025-07-15 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/5-ways-to-enjoy-summer-at-hale/ Summer is in full swing, and there’s no better place to explore, cool off, and connect with nature than Hale. Spanning over 1,200 acres across Westwood and Dover, our forests, ponds, and meadows feature activities in Massachusetts for every age and interest, whether you're looking for adventure, solitude, or just a break from your screen. Here are five ways to make the most of your summer at Hale: Take a Dip at South Beach When the weather heats up, head straight to the water. South Beach at Hale welcomes all and offers both day passes and season passes. With Noanet Pond’s clean water, soft sand, and space to relax or play, it's an ideal destination for a family outing or a solo recharge. It’s also the perfect spot to learn to swim, and our highly regarded instructors lead six levels of Red Cross swimming lessons throughout the summer. Explore South Beach Explore Miles of Hiking Trails Hale’s extensive trail system includes more than 20 miles of marked paths through woodlands, along streams, and past historic landmarks. Whether you're in the mood for a gentle walk or a more ambitious trek, the variety of trails offers something for everyone. View the trail map Go Mountain Biking Looking to pick up the pace? Our trails are favorites among mountain bikers. With routes suited for beginners and intermediate riders alike, it’s a great way to get active while taking in the natural beauty of the area. And if you’re looking to level up your skills, we offer a variety of clinics, camps, races, and events for youth and adults. Learn more about mountain biking at Hale Join Summer Camp (Spots Still Available) It isn’t too late to give your child the gift of a summer outdoors. While many of Hale’s day camps fill months in advance, a few have limited availability for late summer sessions. Campers spend their days hiking, swimming, building skills, and making lasting memories, all in a safe, nature-based environment. Register for summer camp Contribute to Conservation Science Download the iNaturalist app and help track local species right here at Hale. From birds and butterflies to foxes and frogs, your observations contribute to real conservation science. You never know what you might find. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime friend of Hale, there’s always something new to discover. Make this summer count with time outside, fresh air, and a deeper connection to the natural world, right in your own backyard. --- - Published: 2025-07-08 - Modified: 2025-07-08 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/why-an-outdoors-based-summer-camp-stays-with-kids-for-life/ For many families, summer camp is about filling time. But at Hale, it’s about something much bigger. It’s about giving kids the chance to step outside, stretch beyond their comfort zones, and experience the lifelong benefits of nature-based learning. The research backs it up. Studies consistently show that time spent in nature boosts physical health, mental well-being, and social development in children. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, outdoor play is linked to lower stress levels, improved attention spans, and stronger relationships with peers. And it doesn’t take weeks in the wilderness to see those benefits. Just regular, meaningful exposure to outdoor spaces can make a lasting difference. That’s exactly what happens at Hale. Whether it’s paddling across Noanet Pond, navigating a forest trail, or building a shelter in the woods, campers here aren’t just passing the time. They’re building confidence, resilience, and a connection to the natural world that stays with them long after summer ends. Nature Teaches in Ways Classrooms Can’t An outdoors-based camp like Hale gives kids the kind of learning experience that can’t be replicated indoors. Studies published in Frontiers in Psychology and Nature point to improved cognitive functioning, creativity, and problem-solving skills among children who spend time in nature. At camp, challenges like learning to kayak, trying a ropes course, or working as part of a team on trail projects help kids develop independence and perseverance. These are qualities that shape how they approach school, friendships, and challenges later in life. Building Social and Emotional Skills — Naturally Camps like Hale are also proven spaces for building social skills and emotional intelligence. Research from the American Camp Association shows that campers report increased self-esteem, empathy, and communication skills after just a few weeks at camp. The shared experiences of trying new activities, overcoming obstacles, and learning together foster friendships and teamwork in a way few other settings can. Lifelong Connection to the Outdoors Perhaps most importantly, an outdoors-based camp experience cultivates a respect for and relationship with the natural world. Studies from organizations like the Children & Nature Network show that children who spend time in nature are more likely to become adults who value environmental stewardship and outdoor recreation. That’s not just good for the individual. It’s good for the world. It Stays With Them for Life The splash of pond water on a hot summer day. The quiet pride of lighting a campfire for the first time. The sense of accomplishment that comes from hiking to the top of Powissett Peak. These are the kinds of memories that shape kids well beyond their camp years. And more importantly, they’re the kinds of experiences that instill confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. At Hale, it’s never just about keeping kids busy. It’s about giving them tools, skills, and connections that will serve them for years to come. And, of course, it’s about giving them a summer they’ll never forget. Interested in learning more? Explore our summer camp programs and see how the outdoors can help your child grow. --- - Published: 2025-06-21 - Modified: 2025-06-23 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/hale-education-hosts-summer-solstice-swim-and-smores/ Arriving at Hale’s South Beach in Westwood, the sounds of splashing overlaid children’s joyful screaming as the sun began to dip lower in the sky. Blankets and chairs were left empty as people wandered in and out of the water, cooling off on one of the first days of summer vacation. To celebrate the start of the summer months, Hale hosted its Summer Solstice Swim and S’mores event on June 18th. Free and family-friendly, the event featured open swimming and boating, followed by s’mores to roast over campfires on the beach. Continue Reading Related Posts View All Posts --- - Published: 2025-06-06 - Modified: 2025-06-05 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/five-tips-for-a-successful-summer/ The transition from school to summer can be a big one, not just for kids, but for parents and guardians, too. We all know that young people thrive with routines and clear expectations, and that’s why summer preparation is key. Here are five simple ways to set your family up for success this June. Let Them Be Bored Letting your children get bored may seem simple, but in reality, it’s a practice in patience for parents and guardians. It can be tricky to listen to constant complaints of “I’m bored” at the onset of the summer. However, the boredom will benefit the whole family in the long term. Once they find an activity they enjoy (which can take children up to an hour to discover), open-ended free play can lead to longer play time, more fulfillment, and meet developmental needs. Cutting back on providing entertainment lowers pressure on parents to constantly plan and rush around. Set Expectations Early Whether it’s setting times for snacks, screens, or outdoor activities, communicating clear expectations minimizes the number of times you'll be asked for another pack of fruit snacks or a few more minutes of Minecraft. Creating routines and making daily or weekly visual schedules can help children answer their own questions. Weekly activities, like swimming lessons, beach time, or regular play dates, lightly mimic the structure of school schedules and can be a valuable tool. Plan Time Outside Every Day From fresh air to sensory input, from physical activity to mental well-being, we're all aware of the benefits of getting outside. Planning that time around your family’s rhythm can be an important way to make sure their needs are met (and that kids are tired at bedtime). If it’s going to be a very hot day, get out first thing in the morning. If it’s going to rain, plan your mud pie-making and puddle stomping before regular shower time. If your children burst with energy after dinner, plan evening walks. Remember: Getting outside doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple stroll around the neighborhood can do wonders. Familiarize Your Children With Their Summer Camp If you're sending your child to summer camp, spend some time familiarizing (or re-familiarizing) them with their camp. Visit your camp’s resource page, website, or social media channels so your camper can visualize the space, activities, and staff. If the camp is nearby and you can visit it together, even better. Slow Down Many children are overscheduled, and it’s important for their well-being that families prioritize rest during school breaks. Whether children are home, on vacation, at camp, or working a summer job, rest is a productive part of the day and can prevent meltdowns. This might mean scheduled quiet time, family movie nights, reading time, or all of the above. Whatever rest looks like to your family, it should receive equal billing to the adventures you plan throughout the summer. Summer doesn’t have to be chaotic. With thoughtful planning and creativity, you can create a rhythm that works for everyone—and leave space for spontaneity and joy. --- - Published: 2025-05-12 - Modified: 2025-05-13 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/aaron-morehouses-first-year-leading-hale-education/ In Westwood Living's latest podcast episode, Tom Leyden connects with Aaron Morehouse, the executive director of Hale Education, as he approaches his one-year anniversary on the job. Aaron Morehouse took over as Executive Director of Hale Education in August, 2024, assuming the role held by Eric Arnold for decades. Aaron and Tom discuss his background, how he ended up at Hale, what he has learned in the ten months since taking the job, the latest on the conservation restriction to protect Hale’s land in perpetuity, what changes and additions have been made at Hale as the summer season approaches, and what brings him most joy. Listen on Soundcloud https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=AUGgP-7XvGc --- - Published: 2025-04-29 - Modified: 2025-04-29 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/the-joy-of-swimming-outside/ When local parents look for Westwood swimming classes, they’re sure to come across South Beach—it’s where generation after generation of young explorers join the Hale family and become lifelong members of our adventurous community. There’s just something about learning to swim in a pond that can’t quite be replicated in a pool. Maybe it’s the way a breeze moves across the water, or how the trees sway gently as kids float on their backs. Whether through Hale Summer Camps or our Family & Community Program, swimming at Hale isn’t just about mastering strokes—it’s about boosting confidence, becoming independent, and discovering the magic of the outdoors. Our à la carte Swimming Lessons take place right at South Beach, nestled on the edge of Noanet Pond. Here, young swimmers trade the tiled walls and chlorine of a pool for fresh air, open skies, and the soft rhythm of waves lapping the shore. It’s a place where frogs might join your freestyle, and dragonflies skim the surface beside you. Learning to swim in a natural body of water offers kids a chance to adapt, explore, and thrive in a dynamic environment. A pond's water is real: It’s heated by the sun, replenished by the rain. There are no restrictive lane lines or fluorescent ceiling lights. It challenges swimmers to engage all their senses, to pay attention to the wind, the temperature, and the feeling of sand beneath their feet. It’s swimming with a side of life skills and invokes a bit of wonder. Parents often say their kids return from Hale with more than stronger strokes—they come home a little braver, a little calmer, and a lot dirtier (in the best way). And while the classic neighborhood pool has its place, there’s something undeniably special about a swim that begins with a hike down a wooded trail and ends with laughter echoing across the pond. Whether you’re watching your child take their first dive after a session in Hale Summer Camps or cheering them on during their first open-water swim in Hale's Family & Community Program, you’ll know they aren't just swimming—they’re experiencing the joy of summer, the way it’s meant to be. If you'd like to learn more about swimming, join us online May 7 for a Zoom session: Swimming Lessons 101. --- - Published: 2025-04-23 - Modified: 2025-04-23 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/hales-conservation-restrictions-nearing-the-finish-line/ If all goes as hoped and expected, by the end of this June, a conservation goal which Hale Education (Hale) has had in its sights for decades will finally come to fruition with two conservation restrictions (CRs) that permanently protect approximately 1,100 acres of Hale’s land in Westwood and Dover. That equates to 95 percent of Hale’s property being protected from development. If approved by the state, the two CRs will result in the largest tract of contiguous, privately owned land to be protected in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in many decades. Continue Reading Related Posts View All Posts --- - Published: 2025-04-01 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/making-space-in-mountain-biking/ How Women Are Opening Doors to a Male-Dominated Sport Caitrin Maloney, co-owner of The TrailHouse and Sustainable Trailworks, grew up riding trails in Vermont with her mother in the ‘90s. While she was one of only a handful of female mountain bikers at the time, Maloney's mother was quite literally the only female rider on the same trails when she grew up there in the ‘70s. The contemporary sport of mountain biking began as a fringe activity in the '50s, and its popularity, trail networks, competitive opportunities, and awareness have changed a lot since then. Over the last few decades, though, the sport’s evolution for female and gender-expansive riders has been especially significant. BikeAstra. com estimates that female participation in competitive events has tripled over the past decade. Today, it’s easy to find women-only clinics and festivals, as well as businesses and nonprofits focused on getting more women and gender-expansive riders into the sport. There’s even a women’s mountain biking category in the Summer Olympics. People like Maloney are enthusiastically supporting this trend. “Starting to coach women in mountain biking was my way of growing the sport’s culture, especially for women, because there are some barriers to getting into mountain biking that are gender-based,” she says. “During the pandemic, we started hosting a weekend mountain biking camp for women. It was such a powerful experience. ” Despite this progress, a recent survey by ShredTrail. com found that male riders still outnumber females by two to one. This imbalance can make it difficult for women to break into the sport. “Many women have tough introductions to mountain biking by trying to follow more experienced riders,” explains Nicole Freedman, executive director of the New England Mountain Biking Association (NEMBA). “And since mountain bikers are still mostly men if you’re new and one of the only women, it’s doubly hard. ” That’s why it’s so important that women have time to ride with other women and gender-expansive riders. NEMBA offers Elevate, a weekend of riding clinics and camaraderie. Hale coordinates Everwild, a celebration of International Women’s Mountain Biking Day. Like TrailHouse, it also offers MTB camps and clinics that create space for riders of various ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Since it can be easier to build confidence and have fun with riders who face similar barriers—which for women commonly include primary parenting responsibilities, financial limitations, and the intimidation of riding with more experienced male peers—opportunities like these are crucial. “I think it's so important for women to take some time for themselves and really connect with other women,” says Maloney. “There's no competitiveness. We create a space that is very supportive. There are no dumb questions. ” While there are many male allies in the sport, women’s events have been an important stepping stone in diversifying it. More than 75 years in, New England’s extensive trail network, enthusiastic donors, and network of stewards are more focused than ever on making the sport more inclusive and welcoming. “We’re creating spaces where we can be ourselves, build community, and push our boundaries,” says Everwild coordinator Jackie Ross. “And in the end, isn’t that what everyone is looking for in every sport? ” Photo Caption: Bikers ride through picturesque scenery while participating in NEMBA's Elevate festival in Vermont. Photo courtesy of Gretchen Powers. --- - Published: 2025-02-28 - Modified: 2025-02-28 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/climate-change-mspca/ What happens to domesticated animals like cats and dogs when a major weather event like a hurricane or earthquake arrives? As natural disasters caused by climate change displace an ever-growing number of animals, their need for human advocacy has never been greater. Rescue organizations, including MSPCA-Angell in Jamaica Plain, are often destination shelters for animals in need. This is sometimes true for pets whose owners can't keep them. But it’s even more true for shelter animals. Shelter animals are often transported long distances to other shelters with capacity for more animals. The MSPCA takes animals from along the East Coast and sometimes from as far away as Texas. National organizations, including the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Best Friends, and Bissell Pet Foundation, partner with state organizations like the MSPCA to facilitate the transport of animals. For example, the MSPCA was very actively involved in supporting recent relief efforts after hurricanes Helene and Milton. When disasters strike, it’s important to quickly make kennel space available for an influx of displaced animals. Efforts are more effective when entire communities respond. Shelters often waive adoption fees to place more pets in permanent homes, and foster families step up by taking in more animals. When a large transport of animals arrives, they have somewhere safe to go. But how do the animals cope with being uprooted and relocated, especially with so many other homeless animals? Jamie Garabedian, project manager of the Animal Protection Division at MSPCA-Angell, says that animals are incredibly resilient creatures. Even so, they do need time to decompress after arriving at a new shelter. “We allow them a few days to settle in while we work to evaluate their behavior and provide any medical care they need before making them available for adoption. ”  Garabedian recommends adoption as one of the best ways to support animals affected by climate change. Those who are not in a position to adopt can volunteer for or donate to organizations that provide these services. But no matter how people choose to respond, choosing to respond at all is important. “Natural disasters are becoming more frequent, and are happening in more areas of the country than ever before, says Garabedian. “They will continue to affect and displace animals. ” Photo Caption: Fifteen dogs were transported to the Northeast Animal Shelter from North Carolina just before Hurricane Helene struck. Photos courtesy of MSPCA-Angell --- - Published: 2025-02-28 - Modified: 2025-02-28 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/climate-change-red-cross-ma/ When we think of disaster relief, we often think of volunteers from organizations like the American Red Cross, and there’s a good reason for that. The Massachusetts chapter alone boasts 2,400 volunteers across the commonwealth. The response work provided by chapters across the country, including the local Dedham branch, addresses the immediate needs of victims by providing shelter and food, as well as supplies including blankets, drinking water, snacks, and cleaning products. In the weeks after initial needs are met, the organization provides physical and mental health services, financial assistance, and resilience training, including CPR, First Aid, and fire safety education, so community members are better prepared to face future disasters. With an increase in natural disasters due to climate change, the need continues to grow. “The Red Cross is responding to nearly twice as many large disasters as we did just a decade ago. In 2023 alone, the U. S. experienced an all-time high of 28 billion-dollar-plus disasters— things like floods, wildfires and severe storms,” says Kelly Isenor, Director of Communications for the Red Cross of Massachusetts. Efforts always begin locally, but when a major weather event occurs, volunteers and employees from around the country— and sometimes other countries— travel to lend a helping hand. When we think of recent disasters, we might recall a variety of locales stricken with need. However, it’s important to know that many areas are repeatedly affected. “Extreme weather disasters don’t hit everyone equally,” says Isenor. “There are many parts of the country that see back-to-back disasters, and some of those front-line communities are already dealing with other chronic social issues. ” People with disabilities, older adults, communities of color, and families with low income are often disproportionately impacted by disasters due to longstanding health and financial disparities. An example that illustrates these disparities is the story of a woman living in an emergency shelter in Florida after Hurricane Helene. Isenor met her while she was staying with her newborn, who had been born during Hurricane Debby, and her toddler, who was born during Hurricane Idalia. This one family was impacted by three major weather events in just the span of just one year. “I wish stories like these were outliers, but they are common in many frontline communities,” says Isenor. So how can we help these communities? The Red Cross is always looking for more volunteers, and regularly donating blood or platelets helps the organization ensure hospitals have a stable supply of both. While the scope of climate change and its harrowing effects can often make us feel hopeless, Isenor reminds us of Mr. Rogers’ advice: “Look for the helpers. ” First responders, volunteers, scientists, medical professionals, and others are working to build climate resiliency and, with it, hope for the future of our planet. Photo Caption: Red Cross volunteer Kelly Isenor surveys the damage from Hurricane Ida in September 2021 after delivering a cleanup kit to a disabled veteran in Manville, New Jersey. Photo courtesy of Diane Concannon/American Red Cross --- - Published: 2025-01-28 - Modified: 2025-01-31 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/activity-cone-snatch/ Activity Cone Snatch Cone Snatch is a quick, fun energizer that requires fast thinking and action. It's a great way to teach language skills, too. If you don't have cones on hand, you can substitute them with other objects. Assign a leader, then break your group into pairs. Ask each pair to take at least one cone (they may take more). Partners should then face each other and place their cone(s) between them. As the leader calls out various actions, players swiftly respond. Keep momentum high. Examples include Simon Says, naming body parts (head, shoulders, knees, and toes), or calling out actions (such as spin, hop, and jump). Get creative! Encourage active listening and get everyone moving. After the leader calls out a number of commands, they say “cone,” and participants race to be the first to pick up their cone. Variations Switch partners after each round to increase movement and variety. Before starting, ask partners to ask each other a getting-to-know-you question. Examples: What is your favorite color? What is something that makes you laugh? You can improve accessibility by placing the cone on a table, with participants standing or seated on either side of it. Raising the height of the cone makes for less bending, stretching, and twisting. Make It More Challenging Ask participants to stand further away from the cones, forcing them to walk or run to them. Incorporate locomotor skills, such as running in place or high knees, while calling out body parts. Use multicolored cones, and call out specific colors participants should pick up. Cone Snatch promotes coordination, fosters teamwork, and makes teambuilding fun. It develops and improves reaction time, enhances executive functioning, improves focus, and develops cohesion with teammates. Subscribe for Resources If you liked this post, sign up to receive more activities, games, initiatives, and other teaching and facilitation resources. You'll get our seasonal e-newsletter for educators, the Teambuilding & Experiential Learning Quarterly, as well as Hale's monthly eNews. --- - Published: 2025-01-06 - Modified: 2025-01-28 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/reaching-new-heights-with-hales-climbing-tower/ When campers and participants hear “challenge course,” sometimes the term is met with blank stares: Not everyone is familiar with it, or the concept of low and high ropes elements. But challenge course elements are often among people's favorite activities at Hale, because they help us move outside our comfort zones and grow. With three challenge courses—one at Cat Rock, another at Powissett Lodge, and our newest at South Beach—you might wonder how Hale’s new climbing tower is different from other elements at Hale. Read on to find out! What Sets It Apart Familiar Construction Hale’s living tree challenge courses share characteristics with high ropes obstacle courses, the kind groups often book for birthday parties and field trips. The new climbing tower has more in common with a rock climbing gym's facilities and may be more familiar to new participants. Emerson Badessa, Assistant Director of Teambuilding & Experiential Learning, says that's why “a climbing tower eases some anxiety about climbing. ” The new structure also lowers the barrier for less experienced climbers to build confidence. It has three walls: an easier wall for novice climbers, a more difficult wall that allows intermediate climbers to scale up and down, and a wall with an overhang for more advanced climbers. It also has a cargo net that allows dual climbs. Accessibility  Hale is committed to removing barriers, and the new tower's location at Cat Rock Field makes it more accessible to people who use wheelchairs. While elements including the Flying Squirrel, Angie’s Ring, and Stacking Towers are accessible, their locations on the property can be more difficult to access than the tower's new site. The climbing tower is easily accessible from both Carby Street and Cat Rock parking lot. Our planned addition of a Wellman pull-up bar to the chair and harness will make the climbing tower Hale's most accessible element. More Opportunity to Participate  Participants in a variety of programs will benefit from the climbing tower, and it creates new Teambuilding opportunities. In the summer, campers from Hale Summer Camps, as well as Hale’s partner camps, will have an opportunity to climb. Australian belays (which allow students to belay each other by stepping backward) will increase participation. “This is a way to involve more students and enhance trust,” says Sue Crumbaker, Director of Teambuilding & Experiential Learning. “It’s something we’ve wanted for a long time, and we're thrilled to be able to offer it. ” How We Ensure Safety  Safety is always our priority at Hale. Our challenge courses are licensed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and accredited by the Association for Challenge Course Technology. Project Adventure regularly inspects all of our elements, and our staff inspects and monitors each element on any day it’s used. We routinely train, re-train, and verify the skills of our staff, and periodically incorporate third-party training as well. Building Community Through Climbing  From vendors to accreditors to donors, it takes a community to get a project like this off the ground, but it's well worth the effort. “The climbing tower diversifies the types of programs we can offer," says Badessa, "and it creates excitement for new and returning participants. " With speed and sport climbing becoming official sports in last summer's Olympics, climbing will surely become even more popular in the years to come. And with our new climbing tower, more participants can now find their first foothold right here at Hale. Use of Hale's climbing tower and any other challenge course elements is only permitted by way of participation in one of Hale's programs. --- - Published: 2024-11-06 - Modified: 2024-11-06 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/mushroom-identification/ Exploring the world of mushrooms is a fun and rewarding way to connect with nature, especially in the fall when many species are thriving. With the right tools and guidance, beginners can quickly take their first steps into the fascinating world of fungi. Books A good guidebook is one of the best companions for mushroom identification. When you’re out exploring, having a book handy lets you compare the mushrooms you find with clear descriptions and photos. Some great options for beginners include Mushrooms Demystified by David Arora and the National Audubon Society Field Guide to Mushrooms. Apps and Websites For those who prefer using technology, there are several apps designed to help you identify mushrooms in the wild. Simply snap a picture of the mushroom and the apps will help you narrow down what you’ve found. iNaturalist connects you to a community of naturalists who can help verify your findings, while Shroomify is a beginner-friendly app focused solely on mushrooms. Picture Mushroom is another option that provides suggestions for what species you’ve found based on photo submissions. In addition to apps, websites like MushroomExpert. com offer in-depth information on species, habitats, and identification techniques. You can also check out Learn Your Land, a YouTube channel that provides videos on mushroom identification. While apps and websites are handy, remember to pair them with other resources, like books or advice from experts, to ensure accuracy. Groups and Hikes One of the best ways to learn about mushrooms is by joining a group or going on a guided hike. Hale features miles of trails that are perfect for discovering different types of fungi and practicing your identification skills. Additionally, the Boston Mycological Club is a fantastic resource, offering walks, talks, and events where you can learn from experienced foragers and mushroom enthusiasts. Safety Mushroom identification is fascinating, but it does come with risks. The main goal when starting out should be learning and appreciating the diversity of mushrooms. Foraging plant life has a fairly steep learning curve, which includes learning sustainable harvesting practices, possible contamination considerations, and, of course, the risk of poison. If you are interested in taking mushroom identification to the next level, always make sure that you seek the expertise of experienced mushroom enthusiasts. --- - Published: 2024-10-03 - Modified: 2024-10-03 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/the-art-of-noticing/ Using Your Five Senses To Learn About Trees Spending time around trees is a great way to learn the art of paying attention. By slowing down, you take care of yourself and connect with the natural world. Using our five senses promotes mindfulness and helps kids (and adults) focus for longer periods of time. Sight Leaves vs. needles are an obvious first detail to point out. If trees do have leaves, what shape are they? Are they pointed or round on the corners? Collect as many different leaves as you can. Next, display them side by side and group them if they have the same characteristics. After, you can use a tree identification app or a guidebook to identify the species or put a piece of twine through each leaf and make a garland to decorate your classroom or home. As the leaves fall, you can also search for a variety of colors to make a natural color wheel. Touch Collect different pinecones and nuts. Are the pinecones smooth or sharp? Are they sticky with sap? If there is a nut, what kind is it? Is the outer shell hard or soft? What animals eat them? Carefully, smash the nuts open with small rocks or the heels of your shoes and compare what is inside. Smell Collect a few pieces of bark (only grab the pieces that have fallen or are about to fall off since insect eggs may be living inside). Smell the different pieces of bark or the trunk itself. You can also smell the pinecones, needles, and leaves. Since smell is directly tied to memory, what do the scents remind you of? Taste Taste can be another window into the world of a tree. If you are in an orchard, pick various species of apple and pear, slice them, and then rank the fruit in terms of sweetness, sourness, or preference. If you have foraging experience and are not near fruiting trees, you can also make pine needle tea. Did you know that pine needle tea is high in vitamin C and sailors used to drink it to fight off scurvy while away at sea? Sound Closing your eyes and listening to each tree in the breeze is a great way to relax. You might also notice the sounds of specific animals. Do they know what a squirrel sounds like? How about a woodpecker? What do you think the animals are communicating about? --- - Published: 2024-09-17 - Modified: 2024-09-17 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/activity-whos-in-the-room/ Activity Who's in the Room Who's in the Room invites participants to learn about each other by asking and answering general getting-to-know-you questions. While this activity can easily be facilitated inside (hence the name), it's also a great opportunity to invite participants to move outside on a playground or field. It's an excellent way to kick off a class, meeting, or orientation! Invite participants to stand in a circle. Next, ask the group a question. Whomever it applies to steps inside the circle. After the question has been answered, participants move back into the circle. Ask a series of questions (eventually prompting participants to ask a few of their own) so everyone gets to know each other. Debrief the activity by asking participants what they learned about each other that was interesting. Sample Questions Who went to the beach this summer? Who likes to eat pizza? Who is excited about today's activity? (This can provide excellent feedback for the facilitator, but be ready to respond accordingly! ) Subscribe for Resources If you liked this post, sign up to receive more activities, games, initiatives, and other teaching and facilitation resources. You'll get our seasonal e-newsletter for educators, the Teambuilding & Experiential Learning Quarterly, as well as Hale's monthly eNews. --- - Published: 2024-08-01 - Modified: 2024-11-01 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/hale-education-announces-aaron-morehouse-as-next-executive-director/ Hale Education, Inc. (Hale) is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Aaron Morehouse as its next Executive Director. With a career dedicated to educational innovation and community empowerment, Dr. Morehouse brings extensive leadership experience to Hale, particularly in nonprofit management, strategic innovation, and program design to drive positive environmental and social change. Dr. Morehouse succeeds Eric Arnold, Hale’s Executive Director for the past 23 years, and begins his work in mid-August. “Hale is incredibly fortunate to have Aaron joining our team,” said Jack Sharry, Hale’s Board President. “Aaron brings executive leadership, global perspectives, strategic vision, and the hands-on education experience needed to take Hale into the future. ” Most recently serving as Executive Director of The Climate Safe Lending Network, Dr. Morehouse led a multi-stakeholder collaborative of climate finance experts from around the world. His leadership in launching pioneering programs such as the Climate Safe Finance Catalyst Contest and the Climate Safe Learning Lab underscores his commitment to positive change through education.   Previously, Dr. Morehouse played pivotal roles at organizations such as World Learning Inc. , where he directed global education programs in 40 countries centered on racial equity, sustainability, climate resiliency, and conservation. His leadership at the Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute further exemplifies his dedication to community engagement and equitable access to place-based education opportunities.   As Executive Director of Hale, Dr. Morehouse will lead efforts to expand and enrich educational programs for children, families, and adults across Greater Boston. His expertise in strategic planning, program development, and stakeholder engagement will be instrumental in advancing Hale's mission to empower children and families through immersive learning experiences.   "I am honored to join Hale. Place-based experiential education is a powerful tool to advance positive social and environmental impact. I'm excited to collaborate with the dedicated team at Hale and work alongside the many partners, community members, and others to drive positive change. Together, we can foster a deeper connection between people, place, and purpose. ”  Please join us in welcoming Dr. Aaron Morehouse to Hale Education, Inc. His visionary leadership and passion for educational excellence will continue Hale’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections between people and place. --- - Published: 2024-06-07 - Modified: 2024-11-01 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/hales-holobiont/ Insights From Our Fall Equinox Celebration Last September, Maria Pinto’s keynote at Hale’s Fall Equinox Celebration explored the concept of the holobiont (read on—this word was new to us, too). A self-fashioned mycophile who has led forays and given talks about mushrooms for the New York Mycological Society, the Central Texas Mycological Society, the Wisconsin Mycological Society, The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, and Telluride Mushroom Festival, Pinto is currently working on an upcoming nonfiction book inspired by fungi. Here are excerpts from her talk. A holobiont concept goes like this: Physiologically, a unit known as an organism is not philosophically separable from the many other organisms that live on and within it—the parasites, the mutualists, the bacteria, the fungi, the viruses, and other critters that make it up. I used to see trees the way they are imagined in a child’s drawing, with roots, a trunk, and leaves; but an image of a tree holobiont made me view each tree as an ecosystem unto itself, a sort of vital decaying battleground of causes and concerns that is almost its own galaxy. For instance, I learned that a tree’s roots are not the most important way it gets nutrients from below ground. Fungal filaments attached to the root tips should be thanked for doing that job. That really begs the question of where the tree ends, and the fungus begins. “We live within some profoundly nonsensical borders and isolations and enclosures. It’s making us and the land sick. ” If an organism is a holobiont, a moving community whose health is determined by the balance struck between those entities that make it up, then our community's health must be similar. If Quincy isn’t healthy, then Milton isn't healthy, then Mattapan isn’t healthy, then Dedham isn’t healthy, then Westwood isn’t healthy, then Massachusetts isn’t healthy, and on and on, until we’re looking at the blue marble from space. Mattapan makes Milton and vice versa. Brookline invents Jamaica Plain just like I invent my gut biome and it invents me. What goes in the river here washes up on the banks there. It’s not that these communities border each other; it’s that they are each other, in the most profound way. This article originally appeared in the 2024 issue of Hale Magazine. Protect Hale --- - Published: 2024-05-24 - Modified: 2024-05-30 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/why-our-trails-are-in-jeopardy/ They run like ribbons through our landscape, meandering past meadows and shorelines, or vanishing into a thicket of trees. Some are rugged, taking us from mountain tops to canyon bottoms. Others are historic, giving us a look into our past, and perhaps offering a glimpse of our future. Trails connect us to each other and to the world around us. They are our lifeline to the outdoors, our link to nature, and our chance for solitude in an often chaotic world. Whether blazed by people or animals, trails play an important role in all our lives — even if we’ve never hiked, biked, ran, skied, or ridden a horse on one. “Trails bring communities together, whether they are cities in Greater Boston or rural communities,” says Leo Roy, commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, the agency that manages the Commonwealth’s nearly 4,000 miles of trails set on 500,000 acres. Add to that the miles of publicly available trails on privately held land—including 20 miles of trails on Hale’s 1,137-acre property—along with all the paths maintained by local governments and The Trustees, a conservation nonprofit. Together, they make up one of the most extensive trail systems in all of New England. No matter what kind of outdoor enthusiast you are, Massachusetts has a trail for you. Whether it’s Boston’s historic Freedom Trail that draws tourists from across the country, the Skyline Trail at Blue Hills Reservation with its panoramic views of the city, or the Cape Cod Rail Trail, one of the most popular cycling spots in the nation, trails are woven into the fabric of life in Massachusetts. “Trails really improve the quality of life, especially in our urban areas,” Roy says of the patchwork of paths that encircles Boston. The Rose Kennedy Greenway, Millennium Park, and Franklin Park are just a few properties that compose an arc of greenery known as the Emerald Necklace. It isn’t just a getaway from the chaos of Boston’s car-filled streets and crowded sidewalks, though. “It’s been proven being outdoors improves our health. It’s restorative to the soul,” Roy adds. Recent research from Stanford University confirmed that exposure to nature can lower the risk of depression and anxiety and improve mood, cognitive function, and memory. Other studies found a drop in mortality rates as well as a decline in cardiovascular and respiratory diseases when people spend time in nature. “There’s a lot of evidence that being in nature plays an important part in being healthy,” says Stephen Sloan, owner of Open Space Results, LLC, a land management firm in Belmont. “The natural environment can be invigorating and soothing... it allows us to slow down from our fast-paced lifestyles. ” Richard O’Brien, owner of the land protection and management firm Conservation Works, says establishing a connection with nature “helps us live a fuller, more enjoyable life. ” Westwood resident Richard de Reyna couldn’t agree more. When he bought a house near Hale 22 years ago, he began walking its trails, first with his two young sons and later with the boys’ scout troop. “It was unstructured play for them,” he says. “They would lift up rocks and play with leaves. It was such a wonderful way to engage kids in the outdoors. ” de Reyna credits those hikes for a trove of memories, but also for igniting a passion that led him to scale the highest peaks in New England, travel a 100-mile path in Scotland, and hike trails in Kenya. “It’s a super activity,” de Reyna adds, rattling off a list of benefits that include exercise, fresh air, a chance to notice seasonal changes, and the ability to clear your mind of problems and stress. It even serves as a social network of sorts, allowing hikers to interact with others on the trail, rather than behind a screen. “I wouldn’t trade it for gym time—ever. ” D. A. Hayden manages a portion of the 117 reservations owned by The Trustees, the largest land conservation agency in Massachusetts and the oldest in the country. “The trails really foster a shared community,” says Hayden. “People who use trail networks get to meet others. ” Yet despite all of these positive aspects, trails across the country are facing a crisis years in the making. Widespread construction is taking away green space that once defined cities and suburbs, advocates say. To prevent that, some private property owners have put conservation restrictions on their properties to prevent them from being developed in the future. Others, like Hale, rely on donors, volunteers, and program revenue to maintain solvency and protect open space for future generations. Communities have also stepped up to save open spaces. Many are buying large tracts of land to spare them from development. The town of Walpole purchased two former farms, Adams Farm and Jarvis Farm, and turned them into public spaces where residents can walk along open trails that stretch for miles. Sudbury purchased Camp Sewataro's 44 acres for $11 million, and Middleton plans to buy and preserve 23 acres of a golf course. Others are following suit throughout Massachusetts. These purchases will spare some green space from development, but still more needs to be done according to conservationists. They argue that maintenance must not be forgotten. “Many cities in Massachusetts are pretty savvy about development and trails,” says Kristen Sykes, director of conservation strategies for the Appalachian Mountain Club. “They can work with developers to say we want you to have a trail as part of this development. ” Developers are getting the message. Today, many are starting to incorporate trails into their designs. Those who do are finding that adding trails to a community means higher property values and quicker sales and resales. And owners love it. “For all demographics, it’s a huge amenity,” says Sykes. It can also lead to economic success for some municipalities, O'Brien says. The Freedom Trail, for example, favorably impacts Boston’s economy thanks to the many history-loving tourists it attracts. In Milton, Blue Hills Reservation attracts city dwellers who love hiking and skiing. In Sturbridge, hikers can check out the Grand Trunk Trail, which follows an old unfinished railroad that is part of a larger system dubbed the “Titanic Rail Trail. ” Even further west, towns along the Appalachian Trail host countless hikers as they trek from Georgia to Maine. “Trails entice people to come to Massachusetts and spend their recreational dollars,” O’Brien notes. “That helps improve and create a quality of life. ” Even so, not every wild space can save itself from development. Other forces are weighing even more heavily on the state's trail system. Federal funding to create, maintain, and clear trails of fallen trees and overgrown vegetation is dwindling. Under the Federal Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program, $82 million in funding has remained stagnant for the last three years, and that figure was already down approximately $14 million from its high of $96 million in 2011. Privately funded nonprofit trail advocacy groups report that while donors are supportive, the money they provide is rarely sufficient for proper trail maintenance. “Funding is always an issue. It takes a lot of volunteers and a lot of money to maintain trails,” says Hayden. Yet even with a $5 million appropriation in 2018—the largest amount ever dedicated to trails in Massachusetts—that money is only enough to fund construction and maintenance of 71 trail-related projects. And despite an additional $25 million environmental bond bill that Governor Baker's pro-trails administration hopes will link multi-user rail trails, the money still doesn’t come close to achieving the ultimate goal of linking all the trails in the state system. That goal, some say, is years, if not decades, away. Still, any improvements (especially along the region’s abandoned railroad easements, like the popular Cape Cod Rail Trail) are much appreciated, says O'Brien. “The state has recognized, very correctly, that these rail trails are not only recreational. They are a critical and important means of transportation. They are getting cars off the road and getting bikes and skates and shoes on the trail. It’s a positive thing,” he says. Sometimes, however, money isn’t the solution. A lack of funding is just one of many problems our trails face. Take, for instance, the conflicting demands from different user groups whose competing interests complicate trail management. With bikers, hikers, runners, dog walkers, horseback riders, cross-country skiers, hunters, ATV riders, and others often using the same trails, resolving differences requires a significant amount of diplomacy. “We really try to encourage a share-the-trail mentality,” says Mike Francis, a stewardship manager with The Trustees, whose properties serve more than one million visitors annually. To encourage that mindset, the state erects signs reminding trail users to be considerate of others using the trail—even those using it for a different purpose, Roy says. The conflicting demands of different users can sometimes manifest in damaging ways. One of those ways, says O'Brien, is in the proliferation of unauthorized trail construction. “Many people who use these types of trails aren’t educated or lack the experience to design a proper trail, so a lot of these trails are unsustainable,” he says. “They are not ecologists... frankly, they don’t know what they’re doing and it causes problems. ” Those problems, O'Brien says, can cause trails to collapse or send runoff into areas that are susceptible to erosion. Even worse, many of these unauthorized trails cut through fragile environments that are home to several endangered species. Plants, insects, turtles, and salamanders have already been affected, he says. “If you destroy clumps of milkweed, you destroy native pollinators and that impacts our existence,” O'Brien notes. “When you impact those layers of the food web, you impact the entire network. ” In other words, a poorly cut trail doesn’t just affect a plant or an animal. It negatively affects everything connected to it. Volunteers, he says, have attempted to remove unauthorized trails by replanting native foliage, but when they return to such areas, unauthorized trails have often been rebuilt. “We’ve tried everything,” says a frustrated O'Brien. “We’ve tried educating people, posting signage, eliminating trails, restoring habitats, all without success. We're still fighting those battles, and they're not easy to win. ” There are still more battles ahead, conservationists predict. Among them lies the biggest: getting volunteers interested in trails and their upkeep. “There are many different issues, but in my opinion, the single biggest one is recruiting the next generation of trail stewards,” says O'Brien. “If we spend all of this money making new trails but we don’t have a dedicated corps of volunteers to maintain them over the next 200 years, what’s the sense of spending the money? We need to begin training and recruiting that next generation of trail stewards and get them hooked on the benefits of trails for themselves, their families, and their communities. ” Today, many conservation volunteers who help clear storm damage, replant vegetation, repair boardwalks, and replace trail markings are retirees who are unable to complete the more physically demanding work that full-fledged trail maintenance requires. Sykes, who works with the Bay Circuit Trail, said youth programs are instrumental in getting kids involved. “There are many avenues to get kids outside,” she says. Hale supports youth interest in trails by way of its programs. From orienteering activities to community hikes to partnerships with schools and towns, it is decidedly committed to developing the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. Getting people outside on those rambling paths is just the beginning. Developing a deep love of nature, an interest in wildlife, and an understanding of the seasons also creates a sense of responsibility for those green spaces that could turn the trail users of today into the conservationists, donors, and volunteers of tomorrow. This article originally appeared in the 2019 issue of Hale Magazine. As of 2024, Hale's total property size stands at over 1,200 acres. With the exception of Sen Ki and a small parcel in Dover, its space is currently unprotected from development. Protect Hale --- - Published: 2024-04-23 - Modified: 2024-04-23 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/recycled-terrarium/ Activity Recycled Terrarium Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can grow plants with a homemade terrarium. You only need a 2-liter bottle, some dirt, and seeds or a small plant to make a fun, easy-to-maintain biology experience. Here's how to make a homemade soda bottle terrarium. Supplies Empty 2-Liter Bottle Scissors or Knife Soil Small Rocks/Pebbles Water Seeds Fertilizer (Optional) Activated Charcoal (Optional) Moss (Optional) Sand (Optional) Nature Stickers (Optional) Fertilizer will help seeds grow faster. Seeing plants grow quickly can maintain student interest. Instructions Take your empty 2-liter bottle and ensure it is clean. Lay the bottle on its side. Cut a window flap in the bottle; leave it connected at the top. Make the window large enough to put your hands in to fill it. Consider using sandpaper to reduce the sharpness of edges. Fill the bottom half of the bottle with layers of sand, pebbles, and small rocks. This provides drainage for your terrarium. It’s okay if you don’t have sand available, but some pebbles or rocks really help! Next, add a thin layer of activated charcoal if you have some. This reduces odor, which is helpful if you keep your terrarium indoors. Add a layer of potting soil. This should nearly reach the bottom of your bottle's window. Add seeds or small plants to the soil. Add any plant fertilizer according to instructions, and then water your seeds or plants. Fold the window flap back; you can tape it to hold it in place. This traps moisture to help the plant grow. You will need to add water periodically though, because it is not entirely sealed. Decorate the bottle as desired. Place your terrarium in your yard or window to get light, then watch your plants grow! Frequently Asked Questions Do I need to water my terrarium? While terrariums do create more of a closed system that lets your plant have more water, you will still need to add water regularly. Maybe not as frequently as other plants, but you must still water these. What kind of seeds should I use? Try chia seeds, lima beans, or any other seed you have handy. You can also start larger plants and re-pot them as they get bigger. Subscribe for Resources If you liked this post, sign up to receive more activities, games, initiatives, and other teaching and facilitation resources. You'll get our seasonal e-newsletter for educators, the Teambuilding & Experiential Learning Quarterly, as well as Hale's monthly eNews. --- - Published: 2024-04-03 - Modified: 2024-05-30 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/the-value-of-conservation/ How Local Leaders Protect Land for All Conservation, in short, is complicated work. Legally speaking, it’s often enforced through what’s known as a conservation restriction or CR: an enforceable agreement that ensures permanent protection, and limited use, of designated land. In Massachusetts, CRs require the approval of the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs and are subject to review by the Division of Conservation Services. Private landowners who wish to place conservation restrictions on their properties are known as “Grantors. ” Organizations that hold CRs—often a local government or one of nearly 200 nonprofits that ensure the terms of CRs are upheld—are known as “Grantees. ” When Grantors sell or donate certain rights (such as the ability to build on their properties), they “extinguish” the development value of those parcels and ensure open space is protected in perpetuity, even as they maintain ownership of the land. Municipalities have been known to leverage resources like the Community Preservation Act to protect larger tracts for the public good. But despite the prevalence of conservation restrictions, “a lot of people don’t even know what a CR is,” says Tom French, president of the Dover Land Conservation Trust (DLCT). “People understand ownership of land by one organization, but the notion that an owner can retain ownership of land—but sell the development rights—can make it hard for the public to appreciate the substantial economic value of what is giving away, and that it’s to the community’s benefit. ” French grew up in a family that was committed to conservation and has lived near conserved land throughout his life. He moved to Dover nearly three decades ago, in part for its open space. This relationship between people and open space is mutually reinforcing, he says; a virtuous loop in which the opportunity to experience and appreciate nature makes one more inclined to preserve it. French would know: DLCT holds CRs on roughly 60 acres of land and protects more than 700 acres in Dover, some of which are adjacent to Hale. And having contiguous open space is critical, says Karen Manor Metzold, president of the Westwood Land Trust (WLT), who grew up in a rural environment in upstate New York. “One of the reasons we chose to live in Westwood was because it was so close to Boston but still had open space,” she says. “For those of us who like to hike, trails and access to nature practically in our backyards. And open space is vital to protecting waterways, streams, and vernal pools. ” The Perry property, a 36-acre preserved parcel on Hartford Street that abuts Hale’s Sen Ki area, is one of many spaces Manor Metzold collaboratively worked to protect. “The Perry family wanted to preserve their property. The appraisal valued it at more than $3. 45MM,” she recalls. “The Perrys offered WLT the opportunity to extinguish development rights for $1. 5MM. Through many private donations, WLT raised the funds, and a conservation restriction was placed on the property in 2005. WLT is the holder of the CR, and the New England Forestry Foundation is the secondary . ” The motivation to preserve open space is different for everyone, says D. A. Hayden. As Portfolio Director—Charles River Valley for The Trustees, Hayden is responsible for properties owned and managed by the largest land conservation organization in Massachusetts. “Advocates often fall into one of three groups,” she finds. “There are individuals who naturally appreciate and understand the benefits of open space. There are residents who don’t want to see space developed or infrastructure expanded to support it. And then there are people who just know in the backs of their minds that it’s the right thing to do. They may not know about habitats, biodiversity, or carbon sequestration, but they get behind efforts to preserve land. ” And while some would argue that urban planning and development generally benefits communities, these leaders question to what extent. Environmentally speaking, Hayden cites the USDA’s estimate that one acre of forest can absorb six tons of carbon dioxide and produce four tons of oxygen, an important consideration in the face of climate resiliency. French hopes people will carefully examine economic arguments. “Towns often think that if land gets developed, it provides a tax base,” says French. “But people who study these issues point out that when large tracts of land are developed, infrastructure needs to be scaled to support it, and the cost of scaling infrastructure tends to outweigh any financial benefit of real estate property taxes. ” Whether for conservation or new construction, “you have to pay for things you value,” he concludes. “How much do you value open space, as a community? You have to decide what matters to you. The cost of not preserving it, and letting it get developed, is higher than you probably think. ” This article originally appeared in the 2024 issue of Hale Magazine. Protect hale --- - Published: 2024-03-04 - Modified: 2024-04-03 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/a-community-of-communities-believing-in-the-outdoors/ Wilson Santos, youth Director of Congregación León De Judá and attendance supervisor at Boston Public Schools, is clear about what he believes: “I think there is a space for all people to be part of the outdoors. ”  You might know Santos’ Roxbury-based bilingual church by its English translation, Lion of Judah. The largest Latine church in Boston, León De Judá is committed to social justice. Through grant funding and partnerships with organizations including La Vida and Big City Mountaineers, it operates much like a community center. León De Judá offers everything from immigration support services to guidance counseling for first generation college-bound students to hunger relief for homeless individuals. Put simply, it helps a diverse population of people throughout Greater Boston.   Getting kids outside and into nature has been at the heart of the church's youth programs for generations. “The outdoors is always built in, every single summer,” says Santos. He fell in love with the outdoors as a teenager when his youth pastor introduced him to camping and hiking. Back then, the church was in Cambridge. The pastor, who also served as vice principal of the John D. O’Bryant School of Mathematics and Science, had grown up in a “concrete jungle” much like Santos. He was committed to serving Greater Boston’s highest-need youth, and over the years, subsequent ministries have reached families as far away as Chelsea and Lynn. León De Judá’s Friday night youth group attracts roughly 60 kids per week, many of whom join its outdoor programs.   Families stay in touch by email and regularly express interest in day trips, campouts, and multi-day backpacking excursions. Groups are youth-led, and the kids provide feedback and suggestions for upcoming travel and projects. As they grow, they’re given more responsibility. But whether they’re leading hikes, planning meals, or reading maps, one rule remains the same: no phones on the trail. “Without technology, they bond more than ever,” says Santos.   As an alum of Hale’s Boston Marathon team, Santos strongly supports Hale’s mission to bridge the nature and opportunity gaps. “People tell me all the time that they are not outdoorsy,” he says. “We live in cities, but in our inner desires, we are all outdoorspeople. That doesn’t mean you have to be a backpacker. It might mean walking through a park in your neighborhood, going for a walk, or just being in nature. ”  Photos Credit: Courtesy of León De Judá / Wilson Santos. This article originally appeared in the 2024 issue of Hale Magazine. --- - Published: 2024-02-23 - Modified: 2024-09-17 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/activity-walk-stop/ Activity Walk Stop Physical activity is important for learning. It improves concentration, boosts engagement, reduces disruptive behavior, and helps students stay on task. Here's a quick activity you can do anywhere. It helps learners move (and laugh) between less active assignments! Invite participants to spread throughout your activity space. Instruct everyone to start walking when you say “WALK,” and stop walking when you say "STOP. " You can demonstrate the commands as well, which may be helpful for younger participants. Issue a series of these commands, in any order, for 20 to 30 seconds to help your group practice responding. Begin the activity! Walk, Stop, Walk, Walk, Stop, etc. Once the group has the hang of it, announce that you will now swap the meaning of these commands. "WALK" now means people should stop walking, and “STOP” means they should start walking. Challenge your group and each individual to accurately respond to each command as quickly as possible. Now it gets really hard. When ready, announce two new commands: "NAME" invites each participant to say their own name out loud (all at once), and "CLAP" invites everyone to simultaneously clap one time. Practice these two new commands with "WALK" and "STOP. " Maximize the challenge. Announce that you will now swap the meaning of the last two commands, i. e. when you say "NAME" everyone claps, and when you say "CLAP," everyone yells their own name. Inclusive Facilitation: If a group member's disability precludes them from walking, but they can move with an assistive device, consider using "GO" instead of "WALK. " Other commands can be adjusted in a similar fashion. Subscribe for Resources If you liked this post, sign up to receive more activities, games, initiatives, and other teaching and facilitation resources. You'll get our seasonal e-newsletter for educators, the Teambuilding & Experiential Learning Quarterly, as well as Hale's monthly eNews. --- - Published: 2024-02-02 - Modified: 2024-04-03 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/a-community-of-communities-reading-in-roslindale/ Roslindale truly is a village, and no village is complete without a resident poet—or in this case, multiple poets. This 3. 5-square-mile Boston neighborhood is home to an active and vibrant poetry community, and Rozzie Reads is at the heart of it. The volunteer-led initiative organizes, schedules, and promotes regular poetry readings and other events that are free and open to the public.   “It’s not hard to find readers,” says Holly Guran, co-organizer of the committee sponsored by the Friends of the Roslindale Library. Guran is joined by Dorothy Derifield, Stephen Babcock, Maureen McElroy, Mary McCusker, and Vivienne Shalom.   During its founding years in the early 2000s, the group would congregate at a Boston-based ice cream chain’s location—but that venue proved to be too busy and too loud. Its new home, Roslindale House, is handicap accessible, has excellent heating and cooling, and offers a built-in community to invite to programs.   Speakers change, but the format stays the same. Events begin with two featured poets who each read for about 20 minutes. After a quick break for refreshments, attendees buy books and chat. They end with an open mic that draws poets from across the area.   “The whole process feeds our writing and our support of each other,” says Guran.   While this labor of love provides high-quality events for people in the area, Guran thinks that it’s the community itself that brings people back for more. Volunteers bond as they generously give their time together, and camaraderie develops among regular attendees. And even though members of Rozzie Reads are passionate about keeping it local, they regularly travel to join events hosted by other poetry groups, too: Chapter and Verse, JP Poets, and Poetry Nights at Hale have become part of the group’s extended community.   Photo Credit: Rozzie Reads / Holly Guran. This article originally appeared in the 2024 issue of Hale Magazine. --- - Published: 2024-01-20 - Modified: 2024-04-03 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/a-community-of-communities-aspiring-to-succeed/ Aspire is a Mass General for Children program that provides opportunities for children, teens, and adults who are on the autism spectrum. It also supports their caregivers and offers corporate and school consultations.   Hale is proud to have hosted Aspire’s summer program for more than 40 years. Today, it welcomes youth from throughout Greater Boston, including those who take advantage of bus service from Westwood and the program's original neighborhood, Charlestown.   “The longevity of some of these connections is pretty impressive,” says Scott McLeod, executive director of Aspire and clinical instructor in Psychology at Harvard Medical School. He points to a group of girls that sustained summer camp relationships with weekly Sunday morning meetups at each other's homes, and a group of close-knit adults whose lifelong friendships started at camp 25 years ago. Aspire's school-year social skills classes attract many of its summer program participants. Others come by way of referrals from educators and clinicians. Still others learn about it online or by word-of-mouth.   Serving anywhere from 90 to 95 children each summer, the program boasts a high counselor-to-camper ratio and interdisciplinary instruction in everything from anxiety management to social pragmatics. Intentional setup of physical spaces, thoughtful design of schedules and systems, and intensive staff training allow campers to thrive in a nature-based setting. Traditional camp activities round out each day.   “For some kids, it’s the first, or maybe most, meaningful form of membership that they feel,” says Jill Dyment, Aspire’s program manager of child services. “They really connect with . Their families can feel that, too. ”  Participants benefit from a blend of directed activities and organic, joyful time spent outside. The program also helps them better relate to classmates when they return to school in September, since many of their peers have had similar summer experiences.   “They want to capitalize on that and keep it going,” she says. “And some parents or caregivers are also looking for that, and so they take advantage of opportunities, too. ” This article originally appeared in the 2024 issue of Hale Magazine. --- - Published: 2024-01-05 - Modified: 2024-04-03 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/a-community-of-communities-living-like-lizards/ If you’ve spent any time in Cambridge, you’ve likely heard of Lizard Lounge. For 27 years, this venue under Cambridge Common has been a magnet for live music performances and the Poetry Jam community. Members of its passionate fan base and network of artists endearingly self-identify as “lizards” who return to the nightclub’s living room-like space week after week. Slam master and bassist Blake Newman says, “We’re in residence every Sunday, barring the occasional blizzard, Super Bowl, or worldwide pandemic. ” Starting at 7 PM, the poetry slam begins, followed by a featured poet and an open mic, both backed by Newman and drummer Phil Neighbors of the Blake Newman Group.   Slam competitors and open mic participants sign up each night on a first-come, first-served basis, so you never know who you might see or how their personalities and performances will build on each other. Lizard Lounge attracts a wide variety of people with diverse racial, gender, ethnic, and socio-economic identities, but art unites them. Energetic audience members—many of whom are performers themselves—create a call-and-response dynamic that performance poetry thrives on.   “It’s a safe space where everybody can feel included and special, where they can just express themselves and keep getting better every time they come back,” says Bill Stambaugh of Lizard Lounge.   Regulars set aside Sunday evenings to be together, but they also gather outside of Cambridge to collaborate, workshop pieces, attend cookouts, and, before COVID, travel to national poetry slam competitions. Some have even met their significant others over draft beers and friendly spoken word competitions. But whether they’re extending their reach locally at an unexpected venue like Hale or performing on a national stage, the impact of their work is deep.   “You will be moved by what you see here,” says Stambaugh. “You will be changed, and you will want to come back over and over again. ”  Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lizard Lounge / Bill Stambaugh. This article originally appeared in the 2024 issue of Hale Magazine. --- - Published: 2023-12-29 - Modified: 2024-03-14 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/hale-celebrates-the-winter-solstice/ On the evening of Thursday, December 21st families gathered at Hale Education to celebrate the winter solstice. The winter solstice is an astronomical event that occurs each year when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest away from the sun, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year. The winter solstice marks the first day of the winter season.   The event kicked off at 5pm with folks of all ages gathering at the barn at the Andrew Cucchiara Learning Center. Dazzling holiday lights were hung from the trees, creating a magical atmosphere on the grounds. There were two roaring fires... Continue Reading --- - Published: 2023-12-20 - Modified: 2024-03-12 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/join-a-community-of-outdoors-enthusiasts-at-this-nonprofit-just-outside-boston/ Back to Nature: Winter Edition Winter is no excuse for hiding indoors—not when there are outdoor adventures to experience. NEEDHAM, Mass. — Tonight Nicole Estaphan takes a hike with a duo (human and rabbit) who climb New England peaks together, then she ventures into the New Hampshire night air on a dogsled. At Crane Beach in Ipswich we meet kayakers and horseback riders for whom winter is no obstacle—and keep our eyes peeled for snowy owls. We also take in a performance of spoken word poetry at an expansive outdoor space. This segment originally aired February 28, 2023. Watch Chronicle https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=d4XxmwGeqXY --- - Published: 2023-12-18 - Modified: 2024-03-14 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/eric-arnolds-vision-for-hale-education/ Tom Leyden connects with Eric Arnold, the executive director of Hale Education. Eric Arnold has been the executive director at Hale Education for 22 years and announced in mid-December his plans to step down from his position in August of 2024. Tom and Eric discuss the mission of Hale Education, the unique path Eric followed to land the job as executive director in the early 2000s, how residents of the area can benefit from what Hale offers. Also, Eric provides an overview of what Hale is doing in an effort to protect 1,200 acres of land in perpetuity and how they are working together with private donors and town officials in both Westwood and Dover to get this done. Listen on Soundcloud --- - Published: 2023-12-05 - Modified: 2024-11-21 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/three-crafts-to-celebrate-winter/ Despite what the latest TikToks and reels might say, you don’t have to put yourself in debt to mark the change of seasons and bring a little winter hygge to your home. Check out these affordable, fun, and family-friendly activities and do them on your own terms. Whether you switch your decor the day after Thanksgiving, mark the change on the winter solstice, or wait until the end of January, these DIY crafts are a simple and fun way to get outside, slow down, and celebrate all that winter has to offer. While many of these are suited to younger artists, they’re also wonderful activities for grownups with and (without) little ones at home. Remember—if you’re crafting, you can’t doom scroll. It’s a win-win for everyone!   Pine Cones  Take a walk around the neighborhood or through a local green space to collect your favorite pinecones. Consider doing this on a sunny, dry day so the pinecones aren't wet or covered in snow. After your adventure, transition to some quieter table time (or craft outside if the weather permits). Get your glue, glitter, construction paper, pom poms, string, pipe cleaners, and newly found objects like leaves and sticks from nature. Put on some festive music and come up with a few designs. This is a great open-ended art activity that will hold your children’s interest because there’s no “right” way to complete this project! When you’re done, display them on a mantel or counter, or add a pipe cleaner to the top and hang them from a holiday tree or hook.   Wreaths  Wreaths are symbolic in cultures, religions, and holidays around the world. The circular shape has no beginning or end, and the materials used are able to last throughout the colder months, providing a sense of comfort and hope when the days are shorter. Get some Vitamin D outside and collect things like long grass, evergreen branches, small pinecones or acorns, and bird feathers. You can add items from your home like cinnamon sticks, dried flowers, or crafting supplies. When it comes to the structure of the wreath, use wire to make a circle and wrap the longer items around the wire until it doesn’t show, reinforce it with more wire or string, and then glue or tie the decorations on the circle afterward. Consider watching a few YouTube tutorials (sneak in some cultural education! ) and find the best method for your family. Display your wreath indoors or outside. Bird Feeders  In wintertime, food sources dwindle for wildlife, and a bird feeder can help our feathered friends. Check your recycling bin for things like tea boxes, plastic milk jugs, and cereal boxes that make excellent feeders. Cut the cardboard or plastic to make a little spot that a bird could easily access, being careful to avoid creating sharp edges. Use string, pipe cleaners, or even strong grass to tie a little handle over the top. Alternatively, if you have access to—or can borrow from your library—wood and tools, this could be a great construction craft for your family. Decorate the outside or leave it as it is, then fill the container with bagged bird food, nuts, seeds, or oatmeal. Carefully place the bird feeder in a bag or box to avoid crushing it and find a place where you’re permitted to hang it (as high as you can so animals don’t steal the seeds or threaten the birds). Wait to see who comes to visit and remember to refill or retrieve it once it’s empty—otherwise, it’s litter! --- - Published: 2023-11-29 - Modified: 2024-03-14 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/families-enjoy-scavenger-hunt-at-hale/ Returning for its eighth year, Hale Education in Westwood hosted a Fall Family Scavenger Hunt this past Friday, November 24th. The chilly and windy weather did not stop families and friends from gathering together on the trails to find some treasure!   This all day event included a self guided scavenger hunt for all to come and enjoy. When arriving at the starting point, there were an array of signs that provided all the information everyone would need for the day. In order to get started, there were four easy steps for participants to follow.   Step one encouraged participants to register their group in order to potentially win one to three big prizes... Continue Reading --- - Published: 2023-11-03 - Modified: 2024-05-23 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/four-benefits-of-summer-camp/ Summer camp offers a world of laughter, companionship, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you sign up for a few weeks or the entire season, it’s a magical journey filled with joy and friendship! Here are just four of the many ways camp can positively impact your child. Summer camp offers a world of laughter, companionship, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you sign up for a few weeks or the entire season, it’s a magical journey filled with joy and friendship! Here are just four of the many ways camp can positively impact your child.   Creating Friendships  Programs like Hale Day Camp help new friendships bloom after school gets out for the summer. Exploring nature's wonders and participating in camp activities reveal shared interests, introduce exciting challenges, and lead to successes that become the fabric of camp life. From storytelling that helps us understand each other’s experiences to thrilling adventures that ignite a sense of camaraderie, camp allows for deep connections. The laughter we share, the secrets we whisper, and the help we offer new friends create bonds that last a lifetime. Not only do we discover the joy of forming friendships, but we also learn the value of empathy, teamwork, and cherishing everyone's unique contribution. Gaining Independence  Summer camp nurtures a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Caring counselors and a spirit of exploration help campers step beyond the boundaries of their comfort zones. Every successful moment builds on the last, and soon personal growth becomes resilient self-reliance. The sense of accomplishment gained from conquering new challenges builds confidence and motivates campers to courageously face life's obstacles. According to the American Camp Association, camp helps kids understand the impact they can have on the world, and it fosters self-understanding and self-trust. At Hale Summer Camps, challenge by choice in all activities allows campers to grow at their own pace and in their own time. Embracing Nature  Amidst the beauty of nature, wonder and awe take hold. Camp becomes a sanctuary in which kids learn to appreciate and protect the natural world, fostering a deep sense of environmental stewardship. Swimming, rowing, and hiking across local ponds and trails reveals how living in harmony with nature is essential. As campers grow, they understand their role in preserving the planet for future generations. Being outdoors, campers are encouraged to explore the wonders of the natural world, discovering their connection with all living beings and the environment. This sense of responsibility paves the way for a greener, more sustainable future! Exploring Diversity  Summer camp is a place where kids from different cities and towns come together, bringing their unique experiences, cultures, and backgrounds with them. This variety of perspectives makes the experience more interesting, and fun! Learning to appreciate and celebrate diversity requires us to consider different viewpoints and work together to overcome challenges. These experiences help campers gain a better understanding of the real world and sets them up for future success. The magic of camp is in its ability to unite campers from different walks of life, creating a sense of community and empathy that lasts well beyond summer. Donate today --- - Published: 2023-11-02 - Modified: 2024-03-14 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/a-spooktacular-saturday-at-hale/ Families ventured into the outdoors on Saturday, October 21st, for a thrilling Halloween experience at Hale Education's Hale-o-ween. Ghosts, goblins, witches, and variety of creatures of all kinds converged to partake in a spooktacular day. Adorned in their imaginative Halloween costumes, children embarked on a spooky hike in pursuit of candy treats. Hale Education provided a range of activity stations for families to enjoy. At the first station, children had the opportunity to decorate their own Hale Education canvas trick-or-treating bags to house their Halloween loot. Additionally, young participants crafted magic wands and engaged in coloring Halloween-themed pages. The next station welcomed families to gather around a fire... Continue Reading --- - Published: 2023-10-04 - Modified: 2024-11-21 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/why-you-should-try-hiking/ Greater Boston is home to many beautiful trails. Blue Hills Reservation offers stunning scenery, and Wilson Mountain Reservation offers a peaceful escape. Hale Education’s 1,200 acres offer diverse trails, beaches, and four ponds to explore. No matter your level of expertise, you’ll find the perfect path here. Greater Boston is home to many beautiful trails. Blue Hills Reservation offers stunning scenery, and Wilson Mountain Reservation offers a peaceful escape. Hale Education’s 1,200 acres offer diverse trails, beaches, and four ponds to explore. No matter your level of expertise, you’ll find the perfect path here. A Natural Workout What better way to get exercise than by enjoying the beauty of the outdoors? No matter what level of difficulty you choose, any form of hiking is a great workout. If you’re looking for a challenging hike with mixed terrain, Noanet or Powissett Peaks may be a good fit. Other routes at Hale, such as Split Rock Trail, are flatter and more suited to beginner and intermediate hikers. Even just a few minutes on these winding paths will help you work your muscles and break a sweat. Afterward, stretch and relax by one of our ponds or, in the summer, go for a swim at South Beach. Mental Health and Stress Relief We could all use some time to better ourselves and reduce stress. Hiking in nature helps us reconnect our minds with our bodies. The American Psychological Association highlights how engaging in natural experiences can reduce anxiety and symptoms of depression. Hiking helps us unplug from the digital world. Discover Hidden Gems Hiking affords us views of nature’s most scenic landscapes, many of which can’t be observed in other ways. In addition to great views, encounters with wildlife are possible, too: Whether it’s an animal, plant, or rare mushroom, you’re sure to discover something new. Every step draws us closer to nature’s surprises. Create Community Hiking creates a sense of community when enjoyed with others. The Westwood Community Trails program invites people of all ages to explore routes around town. Led by an experienced guide, these short monthly excursions are a great way to meet other outdoorsy people. If you prefer to gather friends or family members and venture out on your own, consider a “Hike of the Year” from Hale Magazine. No matter how you decide to explore, remember to always follow the visitor guidelines on Hale’s website. See you on the trails! --- - Published: 2023-09-04 - Modified: 2024-04-03 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/a-community-of-communities-facilitating-a-professional-family/ Program facilitation attracts a playful, passionate, diverse group of people. Industry-wide, this seasonal work is fraught with turnover. But at Hale, that isn't the case.   A number of Hale's facilitators work in schools during the academic year and at Hale during the summer, while others frequent the challenge course from early May through late October. Regardless of seasonality, many return from one year to the next.   “Super” Sue Crumbaker, director of Hale’s Teambuilding & Experiential Learning programs, started at Hale as a part-time facilitator 10 years ago. Her entire family followed suit—all four of her children have worked on Hale’s challenge courses at some point during their careers. But the vast majority of this professional family’s members aren’t related by blood.   Whether new facilitators have worked in outdoor education and recreation for decades or have never spent a day in the woods, the team helps them develop hard skills (such as putting on harnesses, tying knots, and belaying climbers) and soft skills (such as shaping group dynamics).   “That’s what our community is about. We share so that we can be the best version of ourselves,” says Crumbaker. “Our training is very much like our programs. We play games. We laugh. We problem-solve together. "  That collaborative spirit encourages deeper bonds among participants as they’re challenged by novelty and guided by professionals. And making space for fun is especially important for schools and organizations that aim to help others thrive. Teachers succeed when students learn, and students learn best when they enjoy how they're learning.   “When people leave their comfort zones, they bond with others who are feeling the same way, with people who don’t feel at home in the woods,” says Crumbaker. “It allows for a sense of exploration. ”  This article originally appeared in the 2024 issue of Hale Magazine. --- - Published: 2023-06-30 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/give-in-to-a-slower-summer-restorative-outdoor-activities-for-all-ages/ Living in New England means summer is limited to a few short months. All winter, we dream of long days by the lake, evening walks after work, and all the backyard barbeques. But then, the culture of busyness grabs hold and we overschedule and double-book what could be one of the most restorative times of the year. Think back to the slower days of your youth and make the most of summer outside by slowing it down.  Way down. Encouraging Kids’ Summer Fun A nature walk, a playground visit, or a bike ride around the local park may seem mundane to adults, but for young children, this is what memories are made of. A simple motivator like our I Spy Summer activity might be all it takes to get them to use all five senses and be more mindful of the world around them. A visit to the local spray park or a walk to an ice cream stand can make even the hottest days more manageable. Tip: You can find ice pops at Hale’s Family and Community Program, and if you don’t have two weeks to spare, a South Beach Day Pass makes for a quick getaway.   Getting Teens and Young Adults Outdoors with the Family Coaxing teens and young adults to spend time outside with the family often requires a different approach. Consider allowing them to bring their friends for a hike or overnight camping trip, or offer to get their favorite fast-casual takeout for a picnic by the water. Trying something new together can also be a good way to bond with them. Take a day trip, or walk along Boston’s Emerald Necklace to appreciate the city’s greenery. Hale’s Paint Night on Aug. 24 is a fun way for empty nesters to try something new with adult children. The event invites new and experienced artists (21+) to paint al fresco as the sun sets over Noanet Pond. Outdoor Activities for Adults and Seniors Whether you’re a young adult, new parent, or empty nester, summer’s longer days should ease into mellow evenings. Outdoor tunes are plentiful in the area, including Hale’s Music in the Barn series and our upcoming Steam Kettle Festival. Swimming as the sun sets can be a special luxury as Hale’s youngest visitors head home. Whether you let the day’s worries float away or work them out during lap swim, round out the evening by grabbing a pizza or grilling your own food in the picnic area at South Beach. However you decide to enjoy this special time of year, we hope nature inspires you to slow down, restore, and enjoy the simplest joys outside with the people you love. --- - Published: 2023-06-14 - Modified: 2024-03-14 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/local-land-trusts-urge-westwood-dover-residents-to-protect-public-access-to-1200-acres-of-hale-property/ The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) has announced this week that it is joining forces with Westwood Land Trust and Dover Land Conservation Trust to raise awareness among residents of Westwood and Dover about the opportunity to preserve open space within their respective towns which together represents “the largest tract pursued for preservation in the greater Boston region in many decades, harkening back to the great era of parks creation in the early 1900s. ” The issue facing residents of Westwood and Dover is whether to purchase a conservation restriction on Hale property located within each town... Continue Reading Related Posts View All Posts --- - Published: 2023-06-01 - Modified: 2024-05-23 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/how-to-prepare-for-summer-camp/ Whether your child is about to begin their first summer program or they’ve been attending camp for years, planning is key to make the transition from school to camp a smooth one. It’s about more than just packing lists and sunblock (but those are important, too). Calming any anxieties and helping them know what to expect is also key to a successful summer experience. Choosing a Camp The “right” camp isn’t the same one for every child—what works for one camper may differ from what works for their friends or even their own siblings. Some children are more independent and flourish at overnight camps or day camps with overnight experiences (such as Hale Adventure Camp), while other children may feel more secure in programs that take place during typical school day hours (such as Hale Day Camp). Many children thrive in traditional camp environments that cater to a variety of interests and abilities. Others may be laser-focused on specific sports or hobbies. Hours, transportation, and financial aid are also important considerations that should be taken into account. Finally, check to see if your camp is accredited by the American Camp Association, which reviews and verifies “a camp’s commitment to the well-being of campers and staff. ” Equipment and Gear Camp is wonderfully messy, so while you may want to invest in a few items that can be used from year to year, like rain gear and backpacks, consider leaving favorite t-shirts and sneakers at home in case they get lost or caked in mud and tie-dye paint. To maintain your budget and go green, reach out to other caregivers in a local “Buy Nothing” or “Parent/Caregiver” group on social media, or visit a local thrift shop for tops and bottoms to get you through the messiest of days. Camps typically provide lists of items they recommend, but don’t forget sunblock, bug spray, and a water bottle no matter where your camper is headed! Overnight programs often require additional items like sleeping bags, toothpaste, and other essentials. Outdoor retailers often have clearance sales on camping pillows, swimsuits, flashlights, and more. But before you buy, confirm what gear your camp provides. And remember to label all of your camper’s belongings so they can be reclaimed from lost and found bins. Health and Safety Camps require children to be up to date on vaccines, so be sure to provide your camper’s current medical records before camp begins. If your child has any special needs, paperwork and documentation may be required for those as well (e. g. asthma action plans, allergies that require EpiPens, or IEPs). If your child is old enough, this is also a good time to review how to self-administer medications, if needed. If your child does not have any allergies, seize the teachable moment and help them understand that other campers may have nut allergies. Involve them in planning nutritious, nut-free lunches to sustain their activity-filled days! Emotional and Social Preparation Changing routines, making new friends, and adjusting to new locations can be challenging for children (and caregivers, for that matter). Help your camper adjust to their summer schedule by familiarizing them with the who, what, where, when, and why of camp. Most camps provide an online resource, whether it’s a website, social media page, or downloadable guide, where you can see the people and places that will be the foundation of your child’s summer. Visiting camp in person is always ideal, but virtual tours and Q&As can be great alternatives. Younger children may benefit from drawing pictures of their ideal camp experiences, reading books about children going to camp, or listening to stories from last year’s campers. Use a calendar to show them which weeks they’ll be away and explain why the experience will be so good for them. Role play can be an effective tool as well. Let your camper “play camp” with friends using a sample daily schedule and observing camper expectations. They can practice things like meeting new people, taking care of their belongings, and waiting their turn for activities. Communication Stay involved in your child’s camp by visiting their camper resource and social media pages for updates, signing up for newsletters, and debriefing the experience with your camper. At the dinner table or before the nightly tuck-in, consider asking them about each day’s “rose” (their favorite thing), “thorn” (their least favorite thing), and “bud” (what they’re looking forward to). If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your camp. They’ll be happy to help you and your camper make the most of your summer experience. Donate Today --- - Published: 2023-05-15 - Modified: 2025-05-22 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/5-benefits-of-outdoor-learning/ The world is full of amazing places to learn, but the greatest opportunities for growth are outside. Nature offers countless lessons for students and educators alike. The outdoors encourages us to reimagine the learning process and transform personal development. At Hale Education, we ground our community-based programs and events around the environment. We consistently see the benefits of outdoor classrooms, which: 1. Improve Attention Teachers often find students struggle to pay attention inside and don’t fully immerse themselves in lessons. Students may have trouble focusing or fully understanding what a teacher is trying to teach them. Without tangible examples, students may not grasp a concept or theory. Providing students with hands-on experiences, such as field trips or internships, promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and cooperative learning. Through unique outdoor activities such as observing wildlife, completing a scavenger hunt, or gardening, students develop an emotional connection that challenges them to have a heightened engagement with their surroundings. 2. Relieve Stress Children and adults can both experience high- stress levels, whether it’s through academic pressures or life circumstances. According to recent research, outdoor learning can reduce stress for students.  One study showed that outdoor education kept students calm, alert, and active. Green spaces provide ample room for students to engage with content and programs. 3. Build Self-Discipline It’s no secret that kids have a lot of energy. Indoor learning environments often lack adequate resources to focus their enthusiasm. Students who participate in outdoor learning activities have a heightened sense of responsibility. In natural environments, students gain a sense of control as they learn how to connect with animals, plants, and resources around them. This engagement boosts self-discipline. Outdoor learning enables students to recognize the impact of their actions on others and the world. 4. Develop Perseverance Learning how to navigate and learn from life’s struggles is one of the most important lessons a teacher can give a student. Outdoor learning is full of positive challenges. Students can learn how to build a shelter or nurture a plant, which requires skills like managing time, patience, cooperation, and strategy. It’s through these opportunities that students develop perseverance. When students learn to tackle problems appropriately, they build resilience and confidence, enabling them to care for the environment and themselves. This can lead to long-term positive outcomes, such as an interest in nature and lifelong learning. 5. Create Active Lifestyles Time spent outdoors greatly impacts their one’s physical activity and fitness level. Students who learn outside are less likely to develop sedentary behavior and are more likely to improve their health and wellness. The habits students form through outdoor exploration motivate them to get up, get moving, and learn from the people and places that surround them. Let’s Grow Together Hale would love to be a part of your educational experience. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher who would like help bringing classroom topics to life, or a young professional hoping to foster change and advance your career, Hale has a program for you. Browse our nature-based education programs and join us today! Let's get outside and grow together. donate today --- - Published: 2023-04-16 - Modified: 2024-11-21 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/how-to-spend-time-outside-this-summer/ Put down the smartphone and turn off the TV, because this summer, your family needs to spend time together outside. The kids won’t sit inside watching reruns or conquering worlds through video game consoles. Grown-ups won’t waste weekends catching up on email or scrolling through social media. It’s time to disconnect to reconnect — so leave the not-so-great indoors and venture into the really great outdoors. Plant a tiny garden Even if you don’t have a huge backyard, you can set up a family garden using flower pots on your windowsills, or even inside eggshells. Gardening is a wonderful family activity because it touches on so many topics. Kids can learn about botany and see the direct result of their efforts. Kids delight in eating what they’ve grown, even vegetables they used to frown upon. So if you choose to grow fruit or vegetables, your children just might eat that kale they’d otherwise push around their plates. You can even extend the gardening project into a cooking project for the whole family—plant herbs and use them in simple dishes everyone can help grill. Enjoy a movie outside Setting up a small outdoor theater in the back yard is easy and relatively inexpensive. Technology has come a long way in recent years and it’s simple to connect your laptop to a projector and show your favorite family movie on a big screen. No screen? Improvise with a white bed sheet. Make a game out of choosing which movies you’ll watch, or let each family member pick their favorite on a special day. Selecting a movie can also be a good reward for kids who do all their chores. Enroll the entire family in summer camp You want your kids to have the full summer camp experience, where they make new friends and learn to swim, kayak, and hit the bull’s eye in archery—but you also want quality time together. Get the best of both worlds in a program that includes the entire family. Hale’s Family & Community Program in Westwood offers outdoor fun for everyone, kids and parents alike. Whether you choose to spend your entire summer there or take a two-week staycation, adults can join their kids in all those memorable summer camp activities. Swim, kayak, and canoe in Noanet pond, brush up on your archery skills, or enjoy a family movie night together on the beach. There are plenty of activities for adults to enjoy while the kids are on their own adventures. Relax with a book while they swim, boat, and play. Take a yoga class, then meet up for a family lunch. Afterward, go on a nature hike with other parents, then end the afternoon grilling together with your family—and maybe a few new friends! However you plan your day, you’re sure to reconnect as a family when you enjoy countless activities in nature. Play lawn games If you’re a fan of barbecues, you probably know the number of lawn games seems to increase every year. Classic American pastimes are easy to set up and can stay in the back yard all summer long for big family tournaments. You can put an Italian twist on them with bocce, or a British one (croquet is making a comeback). Vikings supposedly invented Kubb, and Mölkky comes from Finland. Modern lawn games include giant Jenga and Connect Four, and Spikeball, a game that involves tennis balls and a mini-trampoline. Frisbee and Wiffle ball are always fun, and Gaga Ball is increasingly popular with older kids and teens (especially at Hale Summer Camps). Hale has stood the test of time, and our 1,000+ acres of adventure in nearby Westwood and Dover feature 20+ miles of trails, two ropes courses, and four ponds. Hale offers members access to private beaches and a fleet of canoes, kayaks, rowboats, sailboats, and SUPs. American Red Cross certified Water Safety Instructors teach swimming lessons for ages 3 and up. So come by for a visit, stay a while, and enjoy an unforgettable family summer together! --- - Published: 2023-03-31 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/splashing-into-spring/ Spring—known to some as “mud season”—requires us to be extra gentle with Mother Nature. It’s a time to spot snowdrops, crocuses, and fiddleheads as they are beginning to emerge, but it’s also a time when wet trails are especially susceptible to damage. Don’t be afraid to pull on your wellies and go puddle jumping on paved roads, look for returning birds, or snap photos of baby wildlife. Just be thoughtful about how you’re interacting with the environment as you do! Navigating Puddles and Pools Snowmelt and spring rain can make things messy in the woods. If your kids are new to getting muddy or have sensitivities, you may want to invest in rain gear. The right attire lets little ones make mud pies from sunup till sundown and won’t leave you wondering how to remove dirt caked on cotton pants. Bonus: They can always use their gear again at summer camp. Spring is also an ideal time to search for vernal pools at Hale. These small, temporary bodies of water can be found where the bottoms of hills meet forest floors. Frogs, salamanders, and worms are just a few of the critters you’ll find living there. These amphibians are themselves susceptible to harm, so it’s best to avoid handling them. Games and Activities “I Spy” games are always a popular pastime for little kids. You can download I Spy Spring at Hale to hunt for specific items, or you might even use a geocaching app or smartphone game like Pokémon Go. It’s good for the whole family to unplug, but there’s no shame in using technology to coax kids outside. Consider setting a time limit for any screen-based games, and there’s a good chance offline activities will attract their interest. Unstructured play, and even boredom, builds executive functioning skills and resilience. Leaving No Trace With so many acres to explore, it might be tempting to step or ride around wet areas when running, hiking, and biking. To prevent erosion, remember to abide by The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace. Making your own path can damage the environment that’s home to so many plants and animals. By thoughtfully exploring during the spring, we can ensure the environment is healthy and ready for warmer days ahead. Are you ready for summer? Hale Summer Camps launch in June and our Family & Community Program starts offering pre-season access around Memorial Day. Learn more and sign up today. --- - Published: 2022-11-23 - Modified: 2024-02-27 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/how-the-yawkey-foundation-has-been-one-of-hales-most-enduring-partnerships/ In 2004, old power lines fanning out to various buildings caused a small brush fire at Hale. Thankfully, the damage was not extensive, but it highlighted the challenges of aging infrastructure. Nonprofits—especially those with significant physical plants like Hale—often struggle with asset depletion. Buildings and equipment wear down, and over time, upkeep gets costlier. In this case, over a mile of power lines needed new poles and upgrades—no small task, and certainly, no small expense. The Yawkey Foundation’s Impact In stepped the Yawkey Foundation. Trustees visited the site, provided valuable knowledge and experience, and funded the repairs. It wasn’t a glamorous job, but it was essential. In many ways, the work reflected Tom and Jean Yawkey’s belief that one should “do what is right. Do it quietly. And don’t expect praise for being kind. ” Even so, praise is deserved, as we greatly appreciate the Foundation’s support. Replacing power lines is just one way the Yawkey Foundation has supported Hale over the years. More than two decades ago, the Yawkey Foundation began recognizing Hale Summer Camps‘ impact on children in Greater Boston. Initial grants seeded a campership fund to ensure those in need could experience Hale’s 1,100+ acres of adventure. And over the past two decades, investment by the Yawkey Foundation in significant capital needs—from power lines and sewer repairs to dam maintenance and several key building projects—resulted in important improvements that make many of our programs possible today. Its long history of support for essential projects like these has quietly made the Yawkey Foundation one of Hale’s most transformational donors. Working Toward Shared Goals The overlap between our respective missions is clear. Whereas the Yawkey Foundation (like its founders, Jean and Tom Yawkey) strives to “make significant and positive impacts on the quality of life for children, families, and the underserved,” Hale believes “nature, education, and recreation inspire us to learn, empower us to lead, and challenge us all to create a world in which people, place, and purpose are united. ” We share a deep commitment to improving lives by delivering high-quality programs. The Foundation’s most recent gift of $250,000 is funding design, site preparation, and infrastructure upgrades for a new lodge at Hale. The facility will feature a dining hall and learning spaces that will address inequitable food service, make overnight programs possible, and provide space for more education programs. The lodge will enrich Hale’s work, and it will be just one of many ways the Yawkey Foundation has impacted the tens of thousands of children who frequent our programs. Partnerships are a hallmark of Hale, and we’re thankful for the Yawkey Foundation’s enduring commitment to our community. --- - Published: 2022-11-17 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/what-are-the-different-styles-of-mountain-biking/ Mountain bikers explore diverse terrain that ranges from craggy mountains to lush forests. It can be a form of leisure, a way to exercise, and is often a little of both. The sport offers ways for everyone, from adrenaline junkies to pleasure riders, to enjoy the outdoors. There are various styles of mountain biking, but today we’re going to look at five that are most popular and the types of bikes they require. Styles of Mountain Biking Downhill Downhill, also known as park style, is described by its name. In downhill you start at the top of a mountain and ride down it. This type of riding is often found at lift-serviced bike parks at local ski areas during the summer. Downhill is not for the faint of heart. It’s the most thrilling and risky style of mountain biking, and the risk for injury can be high. That’s why downhill riders wear full body armor and helmets with face shields to maximize protection. Downhill bikes are designed with full suspension and big knobby tires, which makes them heavy. Cross-country Cross-country (or XC) is the type of mountain biking most people are familiar with because you can watch it at the Olympics every four years. This style is all about long rides in the backcountry that rely on a biker’s fitness and stamina for climbing and speed. Cross-country bikes are designed for low weight and smooth shifting. While they struggle on more technical terrain, they make up for that in rolling efficiency and pedaling. Extremely light full-suspension bikes are often extremely expensive. More economical hardtail mountain bikes offer suspension shocks on the front fork, but not the rear. All-Mountain / Enduro This style of riding evolved from leisure mountain biking, but is more aggressive, downhill, and technical. Rides in the backcountry are typically on single-track and eroded double-track trails. Enduro is similar to cross-country, but focuses more on endurance—daylong and multi-day rides include climbs and technical descents.   Traveling uphill is easier on enduro bikes than it is on downhill bikes, but they offer less versatility than trail or cross-country bikes. They also have more travel in the front suspension and are brawnier overall. Trail Trail is the most common type of mountain biking, and how most mountain biking beginners get their start in the sport. Trail focuses equally on technical downhill riding and uphill/rolling cross-country terrain. Trail bikes are the most popular mountain bikes, offering decreased weight, mid-range front fork travel, and bike geometry that prioritizes rider comfort over bike performance. These bikes usually feature full suspension. Fat Biking Fat biking is the newest style of mountain biking. It focuses on four-season cycling and less traditional terrain types, like snow and sand. As you can probably guess from the name, fat biking got its name from fat bikes’ big, five-inch-wide tires. Larger tires maximize grip on terrain that other mountain bikes can’t handle. Mountain Biking at Hale Hale has more than 20 miles of rugged multi-use bike trails with varied terrain suitable for both beginners and more experienced mountain bikers. Located just miles from Boston, its trails cater to riders who practice cross-country and enduro styles, with plenty of hilly and technical terrain to challenge all skill levels. Those looking for a post-Thanksgiving mini bike festival—one that includes guided rides and arrowed loops for folks to ride at their own pace—will be interested in the New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA)’s annual Turkey Afterburner. Learn more and register for this family friendly event on NEMBA’s website. Whether you visit Hale to mountain bike or enjoy a quiet walk in nature, its trails are open every day. With camps and programs for kids and adults, there’s no shortage of fun, outdoor excitement year-round! donate today --- - Published: 2022-11-01 - Modified: 2024-11-21 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/how-to-pick-a-day-camp-that-will-help-your-child/ Some camps (including Hale) open enrollment long before summer, so it’s never too early for parents to begin thinking about what their children are going to do all day during those months off from school. You certainly don’t want them sitting around playing video games, but if you’re a working parent, you likely can’t take off the entire summer to make sure they’re spending time in the great outdoors, either. That’s where local camps come in—and some programs can even serve your entire family. With so many options to choose from, you might appreciate some guidance. Here are three key factors to consider when picking a day camp. Research the camp’s reputation Reviews and ratings can be helpful. Feedback often reveals specific activities, and it can even provide a broad overview of a camp, but reviews don’t always paint a full picture. To really learn about a camp’s reputation, look for articles in your local paper or magazines, especially magazines geared toward parents. Ask the camp staff for references—other campers’ parents are often happy to speak about their experiences. Also look at what the camp does for the community. Some camps subsidize summer programs for families in need, collaborate with public schools, or offer financial aid. Hale Summer Camps, which are routinely named as top-five day camps by Boston parents, welcome campers from all communities and provide bus service to various cities, towns, and neighborhoods. Hale also partners with a number of organizations (including Boston Public Schools and Massachusetts General Hospital, to name two) that offer programs for children who wouldn’t otherwise have access to summer learning opportunities. Make sure the camp is accredited You’re leaving the most precious people in your life to be cared for by camp counselors for a day, a week, or even longer, so it’s important to know whether the camp is accredited. American Camp Association accreditation indicates that a camp’s entire operation—including its staff training, programming, and health and safety measures—has been thoroughly peer-reviewed. When you enroll your child in an accredited camp, you’ll know that activities are developmentally appropriate and that your child will explore the environment with an eye toward education. Your child will have plenty of fun, but will also find opportunities for personal growth, all while enjoying the activities summer camp has to offer. Look for camp pastimes that will help your kids grow Your child won’t be all that concerned with a camp’s reputation or accreditation; they just want to have fun. Little do they know that all the activities they enjoy at camp—swimming, hiking, archery, field games, and more—are actually helping them grow as leaders and team players. A well-rounded program is essential for your child’s engagement and education. A classic camp experience is grounded in the great outdoors. Many of us learned to swim in a pond at summer camp, and Hale’s campers receive lessons from instructors certified by the American Red Cross and enjoy free time each day in the beautiful Powissett and Noanet Ponds. Exploration—not just of ponds and forests, but also of new interests that can last a lifetime—improves physical and mental skills. Hobbies have long helped kids grow and build character. At Hale, children boat, mountain bike, and climb on a living tree challenge course. They learn to build forts, catch fish, and make friendship bracelets for all their new friends. Want to get in on the fun? Parents are invited to join their kids in Hale’s Family & Community Program, where the entire family can swim, sail, and relax together on Noanet Pond. All of these activities and pastimes, pursued with expert guidance, help your child discover their passion, gain a sense of achievement and grow into confident, compassionate and cooperative adults. A solid reputation, accreditation and programs that support and nurture your child are the three most important factors to consider when choosing your camp. --- - Published: 2022-10-04 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/7-important-accessories-for-mountain-biking/ Mountain biking (MTB) is a great way to experience nature and stay in shape. There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of shredding trails on your bike. But, if you’re a beginner, you’ll want to ensure you have these seven accessories before you head out. Together, they’ll make your time on the trails more rewarding while keeping you safe. You can find all these accessories—and a bike, if you haven’t bought one yet—at local shops like NEMBA’s website. Now, let’s look at the seven mountain biking accessories you’ll need before you tackle diverse and challenging trails like the ones available at Hale. Helmet A properly fitted helmet is your most important mountain biking accessory and piece of safety equipment. MTB helmets offer greater protection of your head’s occipital and temporal regions than traditional bike helmets. A full-face helmet provides extra protection for your face, chin, and mouth, which you’ll need for downhill riding. Research suggests that a high-quality helmet can reduce head injuries by 39% and facial trauma by 28%. Helmets come in various sizes, so it’s important to get one that fits your head. Helmets should fit snugly; with your helmet unclipped, you should be able to tip your head down and not have the helmet fall off. With your helmet clipped, there should be enough room to fit two fingers between the strap and your chin. Shoes and Pedals Your shoes are essential for bike control and performance. While you can wear any shoes while riding, a good pair offers many advantages. MTB shoes are rugged, hard-wearing, and stiff to improve power transfer to the pedals and wheels. Your pedals can be either flat or clip-in; this comes down to personal preference. Clip-in pedals allow you to use the pedal stroke to put down more power and the pulling motion to tackle steep climbs and complex trail features. Flat pedals are wide and strong to provide a solid platform and are typically fitted with pins to help with shoe grip. Consider how you’ll ride before making a purchase, and be sure to match your shoe with your pedal. Clothing MTB clothing is breathable and flexible so you can move around on the bike. It’s also often reinforced and made of more durable material to prevent ripping should you fall off. For your shorts, you’ll want something with at least one zipper pocket, a sturdy fastening system, and of some length to avoid chafing. Your jersey should be breathable, have extra space for protective padding, and be suitable for the climate you’ll ride in. As we move into the colder season, think about layers: You’ll want to regulate your body temperature based on your exertion level.   Gloves MTB gloves are typically full-fingered with protection across the top of the hand and knuckles. When choosing a pair of gloves, consider fit, palm grip, knuckle protection, and suitability for whatever temperature you’ll ride in. Good gloves can enhance your connection to the handlebars and offer protection if you go down while riding (your instinct will be to catch yourself with your hands). Eye Protection Protecting your eyes is another important safety precaution, making eye protection an essential accessory. You’ll be riding through trails with sticks and debris at head level as well as possible dust from other riders, so to keep your eyes safe, you’ll need a good pair of protective glasses. MTB glasses are like a combination of sunglasses and goggles: unlike standard glasses, they’re designed to curve around your head, fit with a helmet, and provide impact protection. Hydration Packs It’s essential to stay hydrated while you’re riding. When you become dehydrated, your energy level drops, which increases the risk of an accident. Because of this, a hydration backpack or hip pack is an essential accessory for mountain biking. While you can get by with a few water bottles, a hydration pack is ideal because you’ll have the water line near you anytime you need a drink. Packs also offer space to carry a first aid kit, snacks, and your repair kit. Repair Kit In your basic repair kit, you’ll need: A multi-tool with a screwdriver and hex key heads to tighten bolts A mini high-pressure air pump A spare time, tire tube patches, or extra goo if you ride tubeless tires One or two bike tire pry rods You never know what problems you’ll encounter on the trails, so it’s important to prepare for anything. Hopefully you’ll never need to use your first aid or repair kits, but if you do, you’ll be glad you have them. Beginner MTB Courses at Hale Are you just starting on your mountain biking journey and looking for some guidance from seasoned mountain bikers? Hale has 20+ miles of trails and a host of clinics, programs, and camps for aspiring mountain bikers of all ages. Take a look and sign up today! --- - Published: 2022-08-22 - Modified: 2024-06-24 - URL: https://hale.education/blog/why-you-should-watch-a-live-outdoor-music-event/ Whether it’s the beginning of summer or the very end of it, one of the best ways to spend the warmest time of the year is attending a local outdoor concert. Enjoying a Woodstock-style concert makes for a unique music experience that traditional indoor venues can’t match. And while many smaller outdoor venues lack seating capacity for larger acts, they make up for it by bringing in a wide variety of local musicians, introducing you to music you might never have heard otherwise. But supporting local musicians is just one reason you should check out a concert at your local outdoor venue. Here are a few more. No Assigned Seating You know the drill for traditional indoor concert venues. You buy your ticket and are assigned a seat. How good your seats are is usually based on how much your tickets cost. You won’t have any real feel for how good your view of the stage will be until you get to the venue for the show, and whether they’re great or not, you’re locked into those seats for the show. With an outdoor music venue this isn’t an issue. Most outdoor venues don’t have any seats to speak of, just an open grassy field. This gives you the freedom to choose where you want to stand, or sit if you brought your own folding chairs, or lay if you brought a blanket. That’s another perk: not sitting on uncomfortable metal or plastic seats. More Freedom Live music outdoors offers a type of freedom that you just can’t get from an indoor concert: the freedom to move around. Not being assigned to a designated seat gives you the freedom to move about at the concert.   Outdoor concerts provide a more communal experience, allowing you to move about the venue freely, chat with other concert goers, or even just get up and dance if you start to feel the rhythm in your bones. Outdoor music events offer a completely unique way to experience both the music and the community that forms around different genres and musicians. Enjoy the Outdoors Many outdoor venues offer something that indoor venues can’t, the enjoyment of nature along with great music. If you’re familiar with outdoor concerts, you know what we’re talking about. Feeling a gentle breeze blow against you as you enjoy a midday bluegrass concert, or watching the sky colored with reds, oranges, and purples as the sun sets during a rock show. There’s just no indoor concert that can compare to the sensory experience of a live outdoor concert. Family Friendly Open-air concerts are incredibly family friendly, giving kids the space they need to be kids. If they get tired of watching artists, they can keep themselves entertained by finding other kids to play with, or looking for bugs in the grass. If they’re feeling extra grumpy, it’s easy enough to leave without disturbing other concert goers. More than likely though, you’ll find the atmosphere and music of an outdoor concert will inspire them to dance their little hearts out.   Outdoor Concert Essentials As fun as outdoor concerts are, you’re still outside and exposed to the elements. And if you’re a New Englander and attend a lot of live outdoor music events in Boston, or the New England region in general, you know the weather likes to change on a whim. So, here’s a list of essentials you should bring to be fully prepared for whatever Mother Nature decides to throw at you during the show: Sunscreen Bug repellent Sunglasses and hat Blanket or tarp Umbrella/poncho Earplugs Portable charger If you’re coming to Hale for the Steam Kettle Music Festival, you’ll also want to make sure you bring some extra cash so you can grab something to eat and drink from the food trucks and beer garden. The Steam Kettle Music Festival takes place every September and offers a full, family-friendly day of great music, great food, and great drinks. The festival is just around the corner, so make sure you buy your tickets today! Save money with our early bird discount. Student discounts are available too. DOnate today --- ---