First Descents opens new programs, looks for medical volunteers

First Descents is a non-profit organization that provides free outdoor adventure therapy for young adults with cancer. The program is designed to "empower them to climb, paddle and surf beyond their diagnosis, defy their cancer, reclaim their lives and connect with others doing the same."The outdoor programs last anywhere between a day and a week and accepts young adults with cancer, regardless of physical challenges, cancer type or prognosis. Not only does the program help survivors regain self confidence and empowerment, but creates a special bond with other young adult survivors. (Our latest guest blogger can't wait to reconnect with her kayaking group this year in "Celebrate Good Times".) The group has exciting news for the upcoming programs, including adding more than 10 new locations for this year. To accommodate the new and existing programs, First Descents is seeking medical volunteers to help care for participants, including physicians, nurses, physician assistants and nurse practitioners. (Volunteers need not be skilled in kayaking or surfing, if you're worried about that qualification!) However, each volunteer should have a valid and current license in the program's state (the organization is based in Colorado, but there will be programs across the country). Applicants will need to commit to the entire duration of the program.Individuals interested in donating their time as a medical volunteer or another volunteer position at camp should visit http://firstdescents.org/volunteer-2 for more information and an online application.