Healing Outdoors: Client Stories with Adventure Recovery

Last Updated March 11, 2025

Hotckess Residents Find Strength in Nature

March 11, 2025

On March 11, three residents from Hotchkiss House spent a gorgeous spring day at St. John’s Ledges in Kent with Collin and Ryan from Adventure Recovery. According to McCall Case Manager Conrad Sienkiewicz, “They discussed recovery (especially in regard to experiencing discomfort and facing fears) and learned how to climb up rocks and rappel down. This was a very challenging activity but all three faced their fears, summoned their courage, and became stronger in their recovery.”

Reflecting on the adventure, one resident exclaimed, “It was awesome! I got out and enjoyed the day. I also got outside my comfort zone and proved to myself that I can achieve a goal, even if that goal feels scary. It reaffirms that most fear is irrational. Overall, I am very grateful for the experience.”

Another resident/adventurer stated, “I am grateful for Conrad making the time to take us out of the house, and to Collin and Ryan for teaching us something new, showing us a part of the world we didn’t know existed.”

A third resident/adventurer said, “It was such an out-of-world experience. I had never tried these things before. I love McCall for giving us this opportunity!”

Adventure Recovery Ignites Connection at Hotchkiss House.

November 4, 2024

The following account was written by our esteemed Guest Contributor, McCall Case Manager Conrad Sienkiewicz.

On January 14, five men from Hotchkiss House and I enjoyed a wintery afternoon at the Adventure Recovery basecamp in Canaan. Max Elder and Jamie Megrue were our guides. With them, we explored the grounds, got an explanation of the sweat lodge site, observed the ice on the Housatonic River, checked out the remains of an old chimney in the woods, and enjoyed the winter beauty.

We then learned how to start a fire with flint and steel – each person had the experience of starting a fire in their bare hands, before tossing it into the
shared fire. Next, we began to carve cedar spoons around this fire, using hot coals to burn out a small bowl in the cedar – this was a very mindful activity, as we had to focus on the hot coal and the burning cedar. We talked about what it takes to start and keep it going, and how it applies to building recovery. We also enjoyed hot cocoa and hot cider. It was a very cold day, but our spirits were warmed by the activities and camaraderie.

We look forward to returning to Adventure Recovery in February and March, as a recent grant from the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation is generously funding three outings for Hotchkiss House residents.

Below are some quotes from the guys:

“Adventure Recovery was great. Being outdoors with fellow clients, learning about the ways of our ancestors, and the companionship that we gained was immeasurable. I would attend all future Adventure Recovery dates with optimism and gratitude.”

“Adventure Recovery was an incredible experience. Minus being cold, I had a great time learning a little about a different culture and their elders, making fire without the use of modern lighters or anything advanced, and crafting spoons with coals. Overall, ten out of ten. I would like to further this experience.”

“Adventure Recovery was an amazing experience. Just being out in nature among peers was so relaxing and freeing of all worries and stress. I look forward to any and all other outings. It was great to feel a connection with my surroundings as well as with my inner self.”

“I had an amazing time at Adventure Recovery. The men working there were very knowledgeable and made the time there very enjoyable. I love being outdoors and I’m hoping to be able to do more activities with Adventure Recovery in the future.”

“I had a blast at Adventure Recovery. I learned a lot from the guys running it. I really enjoyed their time, patience, and knowledge. I am hoping to return for other activities. It really helps with my recovery and connection with nature – thank you.”

Return to our Blog for more inspiring stories and insights.