Project Blueprint 740 Takes Trip out West

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Project Blueprint 740 is a local program created by Bryan Wolfe that reaches out to disadvantaged boys in an effort to build their accountability and self esteem.

J.W. and M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation Special Events Director Beth Fox shared how their organization along with the Muskingum County Community Foundation sponsored a trip for Project Blueprint 740 to attend the No Barriers Mountain Campus in Colorado. 

“We left Ohio on June 16th and we were there Sunday through Thursday,” Fox said. “Once we got to camp, we had camp leaders that were with us every step of the way. Our last day there, we were able to do a community service project. So we were able to give back to the same campus that was given so much to us.”

Fox noted how the changes of scenery, first time experiences and all the outdoor adventures helped them build confidence. She also emphasized how assigning separate campsite tasks that other group members relied upon gave them a purpose and let them know they were important. 

“They learned about how important it is to surround ourselves with people that support us,” Fox said. “So I think that the lessons they learned may not be able to be checked off of a worksheet or a… you know, a test form but these lessons that they learned about… you know, having self resilience, being ok with failing once in a while, getting back up and then just supporting one another. I think those are the lessons that will last, hopefully a lifetime.”

The No Barriers Mountain Campus was started by Eric Weihenmayer, a blind mountain climber who overcame his disabilities to accomplish more than many without disabilities could never achieve. Weihenmayer’s inspirational life story has influenced many and allowed him to network with organizations around the world including ones right here in Muskingum County.