The COLT process is designed to permanently redirect teens to a successful, positive, and productive new lifestyle. This process begins, as teens become relieved from the negative influences found daily in their present settings. Teens will experience a radical change of environment in the COLT program. The rugged beauty of mountains and the physical challenges of outdoor activities present a wholesome world of opportunities for new growth.
Our Philosophy
As teens gradually build trusting relationships with an adult counselor who becomes a positive role model the high level of challenging activities fosters development of a wide range of desirable character qualities. A strong work ethic develops from daily chores and work projects. These qualities, in turn, lead to a new sense of selfworth as well as positive interpersonal skills. Then in the context of a solid relationship with a caring and mature counselor, the young person is able to sort out and overcome the conflicts that have hindered them. As they progress, they are set free from their previously destructive lifestyle to walk in a new life as a happy, productive person.
Location
COLT has an administrative headquarters and base camp location west of Missoula, Montana on the Alberton Gorge of the Clark Fork River at Tarkio. We are isolated by state and forest service lands surrounding us, which give us the opportunity to hike, bike, backpack, snowshoe, or ride horseback over more than a hundred miles of public land. This location is also at the end of a well-known whitewater section of the river, which provides whitewater rafting and kayaking upstream and canoeing downstream.
