On Saturday, January 4, 2025, The Young Women’s Leadership School of the Bronx finally got the chance to embark on their much-anticipated outdoor adventure at Bear Mountain, after being postponed twice due to cold weather. Although the temperature was below freezing, the group decided to go ahead with the event, embracing the winter conditions for a day of fun and camaraderie.

Due to the extreme cold, the planned hike was canceled for safety reasons. Instead, the group spent their time enjoying the outdoor ice skating rink at Bear Mountain State Park. Ten out of twelve students had never ice skated before, but by the end of the day, they were confidently standing on their feet, gliding across the ice, and no longer holding onto the rink’s edges for support.

The students showed remarkable teamwork and encouragement as they helped each other through the experience. They cheered each other on, offering tips and support as they learned. There was plenty of laughter when someone would fall on their bottom, but the group always quickly showed concern, helping their friends back on their feet and encouraging them to try again.

They expressed their gratitude to NYC ICO for providing such wonderful opportunities and eagerly asked when the next trip would be, excited for their future adventures together.