Uplifting Oregon’s Youth
A mere glimpse of thousands of hosted summer program experiences in the natural heart of Caldera
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
From its humble beginnings in 1996
Caldera has helped realize the dream of the creative visionary Dan Wieden by hosting thousands of experiences for underserved youth communities in its in-nature art center located in Central Oregon.
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
Nature-centered since its beginning
Caldera's natural setting has proven to be more than a place, it’s a sanctuary for creative discovery. A positive natural environment is essential for creative learning.
Discovery
There is something special in the air, water, and land on which Caldera has hosted their summer programming for over 28 years. It's an intangible experience.
Across the meadow next to Blue Lake
During late summer, many students sign up for a photography class field trip—the bravest trek to the trail's end, where surprising photo opportunities unfold.
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
On the journey to Central Oregon
Many young people claim their confidence, re-discover their voices, and become leaders who change their communities.
Discovery takes many forms
It's a place where dreams are penciled in, in creative spaces like the film loft, and aids the creation of short films, music records, and beyond.
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
Engaged minds learn from each other in community
Community building practices are a huge part of the summer programming, and Caldera’s art center provides the perfect setting for learning.
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
It’s a place of awe and discovery
Environmental education is a long-standing tradition in Caldera's programming; many students engage with nature for the first time in natural settings.
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
Caldera is a place of joy
There's a welcoming energy in the amber glow of the architecture in Caldera’s Hearth Building and the energy youth bring to the space.
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
Outside of the Hearth Building
Young learners assemble in the outdoor atrium outside the Hearth Building. This is the center of the world during summer programming.
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
Sharing spaces and listening to young voices
In safe spaces, Caldera facilitates structured introspective programs that nurture the creative development of participants.
Caldera Summer Program by E.N. MoralesCaldera
In meaningful spaces, Caldera shapes confident people
A familiar smile and side hug could be the one thing that brings art, nature, mentorship, and creativity all together. Maybe it’s that simple.
This shared story is part of a decade-long visual chronicle in the making, documented by E.N. Morales, highlighting the fundamentals of Caldera programs.
Editor, Randal Garcia
