Member Spotlight: Bernie
Date postedOctober 30, 2024
Meet Bernie Rupe!
Bernie(he/him/his) grew up in Oak Park, IL and now lives in Palatine, IL. Bernie is the Executive Director at Chicago Voyagers, a program providing Adventure Therapy services to low income youth of color. Tell us a bit about what you do at your organization.
We provide Adventure Therapy services to low income youth of color. As ED, I am overall leader for the organization - including still having a hand in program delivery!
Tell us more about yourself!
Bernie Rupe has 30 years of experience in the adventure therapy field and has 15 years’ experience working and managing AT programs. He is the founder and Executive Director of Chicago Voyagers. He is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NBCC), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified Clinical Adventure Therapist. He has developed a community-based model for providing services to youth in need and presented workshops twelve times at national conferences and is on the board of the Association for Experiential Education.
What excites you when you think about the future of Experiential Education?
The power of experience in changing lives.
Who or what inspires you?
Our youth.
In your free time, we can probably find you:
Bicycling or at Church
How long have you been involved with AEE?
Over 10 years - was invited by a friend.
What is the most rewarding part about being a Member of AEE?
Having a professional community.
Any specific AEE memories you'd like to share?
(re)Meeting Christine Norton after 15 years and engaging her in our research!
Find Bernie here:
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