About Us
WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE DO
Wild On Purpose is an adventurous backpacking and outdoor exploration group dedicated to providing both adults and youth the opportunity to experience the wonders of nature in a way they might not otherwise get to. Through carefully curated trips, the group offers a unique space where participants can disconnect from the everyday and immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors, all while building lasting connections with others.
Wild On Purpose creates an environment where fun and community are at the heart of every adventure, whether it’s a challenging hike through rugged terrain or a serene camping experience. Along the way, participants learn valuable outdoor skills—from navigating trails and setting up camp to Leave No Trace principles—while exploring areas that many might not have access to on their own.
The group fosters an inclusive, supportive atmosphere, encouraging people of all experience levels to step outside their comfort zones, learn new skills, and grow in a supportive, welcoming community. Whether it’s a first-time backpacking trip or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast looking for new experiences, Wild On Purpose offers the chance to explore hidden gems, push personal boundaries, and, most importantly, have fun in nature with others who share the same passion for adventure.
Meet The Team
Rosie
Rosie
Rosie
Rosie is the Founder and Group Coordinator for Wild On Purpose. Having lived in California for the past 10 years and worked with people from backgrounds of complex trauma, she realized the free and natural benefits the great outdoors has to offer in helping people navigate life's challenges. Rosie is a lover of camping, stand up paddle boarding and anything that gets her out in the sunshine!
Dan
Rosie
Rosie
Dan is a former wild land firefighter for CAL FIRE, a technical gear specialist and the owner of Redding's longest standing outdoor sporting goods store- "The Hermit's Hut". As a Redding local, Dan grew up exploring the far reaches of NorCal's outdoor scene and later served as the Outdoor Health Specialist for Whiskeytown Environmental Sc
Dan is a former wild land firefighter for CAL FIRE, a technical gear specialist and the owner of Redding's longest standing outdoor sporting goods store- "The Hermit's Hut". As a Redding local, Dan grew up exploring the far reaches of NorCal's outdoor scene and later served as the Outdoor Health Specialist for Whiskeytown Environmental School. Dan provides technical advice and support for those planning a trip with Wild On Purpose.
Lael
Erick
Erick
Lael grew up in Vancouver, Canada, and after going on a backpacking trip to Australia in 2000, she ended up moving there for 20 years! Lael has worked in a variety of Youth Mentoring Programs teaching in schools, leading teams across South East Asia, and facilitating events. Lael is a Co-Leader of our Youth Explore Program. She loves moun
Lael grew up in Vancouver, Canada, and after going on a backpacking trip to Australia in 2000, she ended up moving there for 20 years! Lael has worked in a variety of Youth Mentoring Programs teaching in schools, leading teams across South East Asia, and facilitating events. Lael is a Co-Leader of our Youth Explore Program. She loves mountains, volleyball, and has a heart to see young people championed and empowered to live in the fullness of who they are.
Erick
Erick
Erick
Erick is a Co-Lead for our Youth Explore Program and is a former Division Chief for CAL FIRE. After a very long and rewarding career he is excited to give time back to our local youth. Erick has worked locally in a variety of volunteer positions as a youth mentor for the past several years, and
his love of the North State's mountains, rive
Erick is a Co-Lead for our Youth Explore Program and is a former Division Chief for CAL FIRE. After a very long and rewarding career he is excited to give time back to our local youth. Erick has worked locally in a variety of volunteer positions as a youth mentor for the past several years, and
his love of the North State's mountains, rivers, lakes and endless outdoor adventures aligned him with this role. He has a passion to expose and provide opportunities for growth by experience.
Erick and his wife Amy have two children and five grandchildren that live nearby, and are blessed with a life filled with frequent family time. Amy and Erick love all outdoor physical activities but really gravitate towards trail running, hiking and snow shoeing. Every day is a good day for Erick, but some are EPIC!