Are age requirements flexible?

The target age range for this expedition has been set to make for a challenging participant experience, while maintaining a high potential for the group's success toward reaching its goals. Having a tighter age range also ensures that there is a positive group dynamic. Applicants outside the 9-12 age range may be considered based on their maturity and experience in the outdoors.

Will participants be safe?

The expedition will be led by Wilderness Inquiry, an award-winning guiding company with 30+ years of experience leading people in the outdoors, including individuals with disabilities. Wilderness Inquiry staff are certified in Wilderness First Aid and recieve special leadership training to address potential challenges relating to diabetes and other health issues. Our guides will be especially experienced in the Yellowstone region, where the expedition will take place.

Can I be in touch with my child during the expedition?

One of the primary goals for participants on the expedition is developing a sense of self-confidence and independence. Therefore, we will ask that participants do not use cell phones during the trip. Guides will have communication devices in case of emergency. "No news is good news!"

How do we get to Billings?

It will be the participants responsibility to get to the expedition start and finish location in Billings (TBA). From there, Insulindependence will provide ground transporation through the rest of the trip. Friends and family members are welcome to travel to Billings to send participants off/welcome them home.

Where will the kids stay in Billings on July 11th?

Insulindependence will be recommending a hotel for each of the families traveling to Billings. For child participants traveling alone, we will provide accomodation in a room with one of the Insulindependence staff mentors.

How are we expected to fundraise?

Insulindependence will provide each participant with his/her own personal fundraising page, as well as with a fundraising toolkit for tips on raising the necessary funds to cover the cost of the trip. Historically participants have had no trouble reaching their goals, especially those who start early.

What if we're not able to meet fundraising deadlines?

Participants' families will be responsible for meeting the fundraising deadlines so Insulindependence can cover the costs associated with the trip in a timely manner. In the case that deadlines are not met, families will be charged on a personal credit card after being notified by Insulindependence.

How does Insulindependence use the funds that are raised?

A majority of the funds raised by participants families are used to cover the cost of the expedition, in addition to costs associated with training/recruiting leaders and mentors. A smaller percentage is used to assist with overhead costs, such as marketing, web design, etc.