Shiloh's Edge is a non-profit organization which is intent on using the outdoors to invest into the lives of students. We use high adventure activites such as rock climbing, backpacking, canoeing as an avenue for enhancing the life of a teenager, not only physically but also mentally, socially and spiritually. Some of our signature programs are a Traveling Climbing Team which climbs together year-round, both indoors and out; a state-of-the-art High Ropes Challenge Course; an annual Spring Break Trip to a warm(er) climbing destination, and numerous Summer Expeditions to remote destinations nationwide. We train students not only in the special disciplines necessary for the activity of the trip but also in leadership, giving students numerous responsibilities and opportunities to lead their peers. Our Connection to YFC: Shiloh's Edge is a division of Capital District Youth for Christ which is an Upstate New York chapter of Youth for Christ, USA. Our Denominational Affiliation: Shiloh's Edge and Youth For Christ operate under a non-denominational format, incorporating all young people into its scope. As a Non-profit organization: Shiloh's Edge operates on the donations of its financial partners. Its activities are priced to cover costs, not to provide our staff with salary. Things to know when considering a Shiloh's Edge trip I have no outdoor experience, can I still come? Absolutely! Shiloh's Edge expeditions are for students who have a sense of adventure and a willingness to try new things. Many of our students are first-time backpackers, paddlers and climbers. In fact, we love to introduce people to the outdoors and watch their comfort level grow on just the short time while they are on the course. What kind of physical conditioning do I need? The physical conditioning required for your trip will depend upon the specific activities involved. There is no need to be an Olympic paddler or world-class marathoner but we do ask that you choose a course which is right for your activity level. On our paddling courses, you can expect 12-18 mile days and on backpacking trips we cover between 6-10 miles with 40-50 pound packs. What equipment do I need? All of the technical equipment necessary for Shiloh's Edge trips will be provided, however, if you have a pack or sleeping bag or something that you might want to bring, feel free to bring them and we'll decide whether it's appropriate for the course. We will provide you with an equipment list upon registration. It is important that you follow this as closely as possible. Where do we start the trips from? All trips begin at our base in Latham, NY. If you need to fly in, Albany is the closest airport and we would love to pick you up, even if it has to be the night before the trip. How do I help fund my trip? Shiloh's Edge high school outdoor club activities are run at a bare minimum of cost to the students, however, with the travel and rentals involved in some of the summer expeditions, costs can grow rather quickly. If you are unable to come up with the entire tuition please contact us. Some scholarships are available. What is included in the cost of the trip? Any airfare or travel expenses, food, equipment, rentals, etc. You will be responsible for travel meals (ie Fast Food stops) on the first and last day of your course. Call us with any other questions you might have. There is no such thing as a stupid question.
It wasn't nearly as cold in Southern California as Melissa and Pinto make it look here. We here at Shiloh's Edge would love to hear from you and answer any questions about the program or specific activities that you may have. Shiloh's Edge adamcatalano@hotmail.com (Adam) If you miss us in the office, please leave a voice mail message and we will be sure to return your call as soon as possible.
Steve Prettyman: New York State guide's license (Rock and Ice Climbing, Camping and Hiking) AMGA professional member, top rope site manager Steve emerged on the CDYFC scene in August of 1997, revamping the existing wilderness adventure program, Adventures Unlimited, and relaunching the program as Shiloh's Edge. Steve holds a New York State guide's license and was trained as a Wilderness EMT. He was also trained by both Outward Bound and the National Outdoor Leadership School and graduated from Liberty University in Virginia with a degree in Outdoor Recreation. A native of Maryland's eastern shore, Steve spent some time working with juveniles in an outdoor setting in Pennsylvania prior to venturing up to New York's Capital District. He is married to another Maryland native, Kim, who is now a reading specialist at an elementary school in nearby Niskayuna. And their family welcomed a daughter in February of 2005. Part-Time Assistant Director
Adam Catalano: New York State guide's license (Rock Climbing, Camping and Hiking) AMGA Top Rope Site Manager Adam joined the Shiloh's Edge full-time staff in June of 2000, after two consecutive years as a summer intern. Adam came to the Capital Region as a veteran in the outdoors, having begun his leadership training with the National Outdoor Leadership School in Lander, WY and continueing with two years as an intern under Steve Prettyman. He is a graduate of Colby-Sawyer College with a degree in Exercise and Sport Sciences and spent a year in the Dartmouth College Sports Publicity department where he honed his writing and editing skills. Adam is a New York State and AMGA climbing guide. He has taken students on donzens of trips to just about every corner of the country. Adam now is part-time staff and when the kids are in school he is at home raising his young daughter. His wife, Lisa, works full-time in the anthropology department at the NY State Museum. |
