Jim Cummings, Director of Experiential Learning
In 2004, at the age of 53, Jim Cummings sold his small business and began full-time ministry, integrating his passion for nature and adventure. In partnership with UrbanPromise, he created an expeditionary learning program called UrbanTrekkers. Jim believes the best way for young people to discover purpose and meaning for their lives is through education. He seeks to teach urban youth basic life skills by widening their comfort zones while stretching them physically and emotionally.
UrbanTrekker expeditions include outdoor activities like backpacking and kayaking, community service, and urban "adventures." Trip destinations include New Jersey's Pine Barrens, Mt. Washington, New Hampshire, the Florida Everglades and the Pacific Northwest. Each excursion includes themes of environmental awareness, community service, historical perspectives, outdoor adventure, and cross-cultural exchange.
In 2009, UrbanTrekkers began a wooden boat building program called Urban BoatWorks, in which students learn to construct boats, swim, sail, and paddle, all while gaining skills that relate directly to science, math and technology.