VOC regularly highlights different VOC leaders, in all capacities, so that we can share with you the inspiring work they do to care for Colorado's outdoors! Here, we'd like to recognize VOC Cairn Youth Mentor, Garrett Bourcier. 

The Cairn Youth Program is an outdoor stewardship program for high school students, and its mentors serve as role models for the teens. From leading environmental education activities and helping facilitate monthly outdoor leadership experiences, to organizing field trips and other learning excursions, Cairn mentors help make a tangible difference in the lives of Colorado youth and strengthen their connection to the outdoors.

"It was during summers in college when I first got in involved with VOC," said Garrett. "Being an environmental studies student, I was looking for ways to meet people passionate about the Earth. I found it here, but after college, I wanted to have something that looked even better on a resume and that was when I found the Cairn Youth Program."

Now in his third year of being a Cairn mentor, Garrett says it has evolved far beyond just a resume-builder. "I love helping high schoolers take care of Colorado's natural resources and I like seeing their passion for preserving land and educating others about the work we do," he said.

Currently, Garrett is pursuing his master's degree focused in energy and sustainability at the University of Denver. "I still am working toward finding ways to better the planet and love the chances I get to go outside and relax in nature with the Cairn Youth Program," said Garrett. Apart from school and Cairn, Garrett enjoys photography, coaching and playing soccer, getting outside, and hanging out with friends.