True North is a summer program for guys aged 11-15 (7-10-year-olds with a male adult sponsor accompanying them) at Venture Church in Austintown, Ohio, where we learn wilderness survival skills while building a solid foundation for life. At each session, participants will get hands-on training and experience in things like fire starting, shelter building, navigation, and foraging in safe and positive environment. 

 

We will also develop things like survival mentality, self-confidence, teamwork, discipline, preparation, and problem-solving as part of each session. Toward the end, we'll gather around the campfire to discuss how the skills we've learned relate to life and how we can develop a solid foundation for life by learning the truth of God. Our property features five wooded acres, so most of the activities will take place in the woods, rain or shine (as long as the weather is safe to be in). 

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Venture Church has been part of the Austintown community for more than 115 years and many of the True North volunteers, including pastor Eric, are lifelong Austintown residents and Fitch graduates. This is our home which is why we feel led to provide a free program like True North to young men in our community as a fun and engaging Summer activity that will help them thrive. If you have any questions about True North, please email Eric (Venture's pastor) at eric@myventurechurch.com.