Catalina Island Reentry Nature Excursion

On December 13, Land Together staff and participants gathered for another Explore the Coast Day, our monthly nature excursion series for reentry participants. We spent the day together on Catalina Island, starting with breakfast at the ferry terminal and ending with a closing circle overlooking the island.

Many participants had only known each other from inside or through virtual programming. By the end of the ferry ride, guardedness gave way to conversation, laughter, and ease. There is no substitute for sharing actual space.

We walked the botanical garden, visited the Wrigley Monument, shared a beautiful lunch, and closed the day with a participant-led meditation. 

Later, one longtime participant confided that he had just had a port placed in his chest and was preparing for 35 rounds of chemotherapy. He shared that he is desperately trying to live, while also understanding that this could be his last outing. He told us how much he needed this trip — how it was the best medicine he’s ever had. Despite the weight he’s carrying, he never once lost his smile, finding comfort in nature, laughter, and being among community.

We’re deeply grateful to be able to share days like this with our participants.

A special thanks you to California State Coastal Conservancy for making these transformative excursions possible.