GUIDEPOSTS
Wings Over Wilderness: Empowering the Next Generation of Conservationists in Partnership with Boeing SC
Wings Over Wilderness is more than just an outdoor education program—it’s a life-changing experience for students from underserved communities in the Lowcountry. Led by the Coastal Expeditions Foundation and fully funded by a generous grant from Boeing South Carolina, this initiative opens doors for youth to connect deeply with the natural world.
A Mission That Takes Flight
The program was created with a simple but powerful mission: to provide students who may not otherwise have the opportunity a chance to experience South Carolina’s wilderness in a meaningful and educational way. Through kayaking, hiking, and boat expeditions, students learn about local ecosystems, wildlife conservation, and the importance of protecting our coastal resources.
Each Wings Over Wilderness trip is carefully designed to blend hands-on learning with adventure. Students paddle blackwater rivers, explore salt marshes, and visit remote barrier islands—all under the guidance of expert naturalists and outdoor educators. These immersive experiences not only build knowledge but foster confidence, teamwork, and curiosity.
Breaking Down Barriers to Access
For many of the students who participate, it’s their first time kayaking, seeing a dolphin in the wild, or walking through a maritime forest. By removing the financial barriers that can prevent access to outdoor education, Wings Over Wilderness creates equitable opportunities for youth to build lasting connections with nature.
Thanks to Boeing South Carolina’s full sponsorship, there is no cost for participating schools or students. This support covers transportation, equipment, staffing, and all logistical needs—ensuring that the only thing students need to bring is their sense of wonder.
Why Programs Like This Matter
Studies show that time spent in nature improves mental health, academic performance, and social development. Yet many children—especially those in low-income or urban areas—lack access to green spaces or outdoor learning. Wings Over Wilderness is helping to change that.
By reaching students at a formative age, this program encourages environmental stewardship and introduces possible pathways to careers in science, conservation, and the outdoor industry.
A Shared Vision for the Future
Boeing South Carolina’s investment in Wings Over Wilderness reflects a shared commitment to education, equity, and environmental responsibility. Their support enables the Coastal Expeditions Foundation to deliver high-impact experiences that make a real difference in the lives of young people—and in the future of our planet.
