This year-round after-school program in Minneapolis welcomes middle school students to explore outdoor activities like cross-country skiing, mountain biking, trail running, orienteering, paddling, and camping throughout the school year and summer months. Meeting 2-3 days weekly during the academic year with expanded summer offerings, Junior Loppet combines training sessions, races, events, and weekend camping trips to help students build healthy habits, strengthen social-emotional skills, and develop resilience. The program specifically serves schools where most students qualify for free and reduced lunch, creating an inclusive community where youth can experience growth, healing, belonging, and empowerment through physical activity and teamwork.