Hayes Hitchens - The Story Behind MOONDANCE ADVENTURES
Hayes Hitchens stands as a beacon of inspiration for both parents and teens, exemplifying how challenges can catapult us toward unexpected success. In today's fast-paced world, where screens dominate our lives, Hayes has carved out a unique path with Moondance Adventures, a teen adventure travel program that focuses on personal growth, leadership skills, and an appreciation for the outdoors. This post unpacks the transformative journey of both Hayes and the teens who embark on Moondance adventures and why this experience is essential in our digital age.
Hayes originally intended to step into the world of summer camps, driven by a childhood fondness created through family experiences. His ambition was to establish a traditional summer camp in North Carolina. However, as fate would have it, an opportunity to purchase a historical camp fell through, forcing him to rethink his plans. Instead of retreating, Hayes came up with an innovative idea to launch Moondance Adventures. This was a pivotal moment—his “sink or swim” realization set the wheels in motion for the impactful adventures that would soon unfold.
In its inception in 1996, Moondance Adventures had 34 kids participating, a modest start filled with uncertainty. But carefully fueled by networking and a commitment to sharing transformative experiences, the program began to take off. Word-of-mouth became the cornerstone of its marketing, as Hayes leveraged his connections from his prior job at Lovett School and the relationships with various organizations and families across different states. Each summer, unique stories began to emerge from the experiences shared by participants—a true testament to the profound impact of adventure travel.
A unique aspect of Moondance is its handling of technology. In an era where teens are glued to their devices, Hayes recognized the negative impact technology has on young people's ability to connect authentically. Upon arrival at camps, phones are willingly collected from the teens, allowing participants to immerse themselves in their surroundings. This intentional disconnection encourages relationships to flourish without digital interruptions. The connection gained from shared experiences and challenges experienced in nature fosters deep, meaningful relationships that last well beyond trips.
One of the remarkable shifts observed in young adventurers is how they interact with one another. Many arrive anxious, often dependent on familiar faces for comfort. However, Moondance enforces a singular-friend policy; participants are allowed to bring one friend but must leave the rest behind. This challenge promotes new connections, diversifying the bonds formed. The magic happens as teens share experiences outside their comfort zones—where they discover resilience and camaraderie, often feeling stronger and more connected by the end of their journey.
However, leading teen adventures is not without challenges. Ensuring participant safety while delivering exhilarating experiences is critical. Hayes elaborates on the importance of effective risk management and liability coverage, detailing how outsourced professional guides and outfitters enhance safety. Challenges may arise, such as ensuring logistical efficiency during peak seasons, but the experienced full-time team enables robust operations year-round. The business's evolution illustrates how meticulous planning and adaptability can lead to successful, life-altering adventures for teenagers.
Hayes's inspiration extends beyond the teens; he fosters the leadership capabilities of Moondance’s staff as well. Trip leaders—many who started as participants—undergo rigorous training and mentorship. Each summer, leaders not only guide participants through nature’s challenges but also grow personally, gaining valuable skills in problem-solving, leadership, and communication. This dual benefit exemplifies the interconnectedness of personal and group growth within the Moondance model.
Looking ahead, Moondance Adventures aims to expand its impact, considering new opportunities for growth within both kid and adult markets. The desire to craft enriching life experiences resonates not only with children but also with adults seeking meaningful connections. Hayes eagerly embraces the potential of this evolution, highlighting that the comeback toward personal interaction amidst technology-laden lifestyles is more necessary than ever.
In summary, the story of Moondance Adventures is one of resilience, growth, and the unfurling potential of youth. Hayes's journey underscores how adversity can launch remarkable endeavors. By focusing on fostering connections, authentic experiences, and personal growth, Moondance Adventures remains positioned as a leader in transforming the lives of countless teens—reminding us all of the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones to forge lasting memories. The challenges faced may adapt, but the enduring spirit of adventure drives success in this ever-evolving world.
