Trailblazers is an innovative program for teens (13-16) to build real-world skills and confidence. Students will launch businesses, stay active with wellness workouts, plan an exciting travel experience, explore creatively in drama, organize a fundraiser event, and embark on adventure days. With hands-on learning, this program is designed to inspire leadership, teamwork, and independence. Ready to blaze your own trail?
Our Trailblazers program sits parallel to our Adventurers program. If your teen is not aligned with what Trailblazers has to offer, perhaps Adventurers is a better fit!
Trailblazers Details at a Glance
Enrollment Requirements
Interested students must complete the below Alignment Tool prior to registration. This should be completed by the student (not the parent). Once reviewed, families will be notified of next steps. The tool is designed to help students and families better understand the program and determine if it feels like a good fit.
Upcoming Trailblazers Program
Fall 2026 Semester
Tues-Steve Michaud Park Blding
Thurs-Hometown Church & Camp Streefland (every other week)
9/14 – 11/19 (10 wks)
Winter 2027 Semester
Tues – private residence
2/16 – 3/9 (4 wks)
Plus 2 coaching calls (Dec + Jan)
No Additional Cost
Spring 2027 Semester
Tues-Steve Michaud Park Blding
Thurs-Hometown Church & Camp Streefland (every other week)
3/22 – 5/27 (10 wks)
Trailblazers Classes
In Voyage, students learn how to plan a trip from start to finish—researching destinations, building itineraries, and managing budgets—while gaining confidence and real-world problem-solving skills along the way.
Participation in the trip is required for all enrolled students. The estimated cost is up to $1,500 per student (final cost may be lower), billed in installments from January through April.
Student business profits and the group fundraiser are intended to help offset costs, but families are ultimately responsible for all expenses.
Chart Your Path. Embark on Adventure.
Head Coach: TBA
2027 Trip Dates: May 14 -17
2027 Trip Max Budget: $1500
Learning Lab is a rotating bi-weekly workshop where community members share practical, hands-on skills with Trailblazers. From learning how to change a tire or tune up a bike to exploring crafts like macramé or meal prep, each session introduces students to something new. Through these experiences, students gain confidence, try new things, and discover real-world skills they may carry with them for years to come.
Where curiosity meets capability.
Students don’t just learn about business—they build and launch their own. From idea to sale, they create products or services, develop marketing strategies, and manage finances while building real-world skills like leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability.
Students may start a new business or grow an existing one, with a focus on reflection, profitability, and iteration. Each student receives weekly 1:1 coaching and guidance from guest entrepreneurs and professionals.
Opportunities include two Trailblazer markets (no booth fees) and quarterly promotion within the OVS community. A $50 seed fund is provided for supplies. Students will also use real-world tools including AI platforms, Slack, Zoom, and limited social media (via parent accounts when needed).
Where Young Entrepreneurs Hatch Big Ideas
Head Coaches: Heidi Fish & Maria Stalsberg
In WellFit, students explore the key elements of a healthy lifestyle, including nutrition, mindfulness, and physical wellness. After gaining valuable insights on how to take care of their bodies, they participate in an energizing group workout designed to build strength, flexibility, and endurance. This class is all about feeling good, moving well, and living a balanced life.
Empower Your Health. Energize Your Body.
Head Coach: Heidi Fish
The Morning Hangout is a relaxed and fun start to the day where students come together to connect, share, and build relationships. This casual gathering provides a space for them to catch up, chat, and say good morning, setting a positive tone for the day ahead. It’s all about fostering a sense of community, building friendships, and starting the day with a smile and a little social time before diving into the learning ahead.
Friends. Fun. Community.
In Drawing Board, students take on the challenge of planning, marketing, and executing fundraiser events to help fund their trip. From budgeting and securing sponsorships to promoting and hosting the event, students gain hands-on experience in event planning, teamwork, and leadership. This course empowers students to think creatively, manage real-world logistics, and see the direct impact of their efforts—all while developing skills that translate into business, leadership, and future career opportunities.
From vision to venue—where great events begin.
Head Coach: Heidi Fish
2027 Event Date: week of 5/3-5/7 subject to venue availability
Through storytelling, debate, and performance, they develop articulation, logical reasoning, and audience awareness. By stepping into different roles, they build adaptability, critical thinking, and stage presence—skills that translate into real-world leadership and communication.
Speak. Persuade. Perform.
Coach: Amy Strawn
Adventure Days push students beyond their limits, building confidence, endurance, and leadership through hands-on challenges. They develop resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while embracing exploration through new experiences. By stepping outside their comfort zones, they foster grit, adaptability, and a lifelong sense of adventure.
Build Strength. Embrace Challenge. Lead Boldly.
Coordinators: Heidi Fish & Maria Stalsberg
Schedule by Day
Tuesday
(on-site, weekly)
9:30-9:45 Morning Hangout
9:45-11:15 Voyage or Learning Lab
11:15-12:15 WellFit
12:15-1:15 Lunch/Social Hour
1:15-3:00 Business INCubator
Thursday
(on-site, every other week)
9:30-9:45 Morning Hangout
9:45-11:45 The Drawing Board
11:45-12:45 Lunch/Social Hour
12:45-2:00 Drama Lab
2:00-3:00 WellFit
Thursday
(off-site, *every other week)
Some sort of Adventure in the Twin Cities area.
*2026-27 Adventure Day Dates:
9/17, 9/24, 10/8, 10/22, 11/5, 4/1, 4/15, 5/13, 5/20, 5/27