“Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.” ~ by Ralph Waldo Emerson
Wild Air for Youth was created by Denali National Park drivers to honor the people who have paved the way for so many to experience Denali. Inspired by long-time driver, Bob Tourtelot, the fund supports under-served youth in experiencing Denali.
Bob began his driving career in 1983 and became family to many of us who still travel the road today. When asked, “So how many years have you been coming to Denali, Bob?” his answer was simple. “I have made a living bearing witness to Denali.” This is true for so many drivers that have spent decades sharing Denali with over half a million visitors each year. It is a job that park drivers take great pride in, and return each year as part of the fabric of Denali’s giving community. It is our privilege to be present and bearing witness to Denali’s greatness, during our journey through it.
One of Bob’s favorite quotes typifies our goal in sharing Denali with visitors:
Bob began his driving career in 1983 and became family to many of us who still travel the road today. When asked, “So how many years have you been coming to Denali, Bob?” his answer was simple. “I have made a living bearing witness to Denali.” This is true for so many drivers that have spent decades sharing Denali with over half a million visitors each year. It is a job that park drivers take great pride in, and return each year as part of the fabric of Denali’s giving community. It is our privilege to be present and bearing witness to Denali’s greatness, during our journey through it.
One of Bob’s favorite quotes typifies our goal in sharing Denali with visitors:
“Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.” ~ by Ralph Waldo Emerson
Each year through Wild Air for Youth, the park drivers community hopes to support youth in their time bearing witness to Denali’s greatness. Driver’s tips and wages can be donated at any time, or during the in-person donation drive during the busy summer tourist season.
