At our latest LinkUp! event, mentors and mentees traded their usual meeting spots for the great outdoors. Thanks to Mona Clayton, a longtime Allies supporter, former board member, and current board member of the Indiana Audubon Society, our matches spent a beautiful fall afternoon learning the art of birdwatching.

Mona thoughtfully planned the day, providing binoculars, bird guides, and a fun scavenger hunt to help the girls spot different species along the nature trail. After a short introduction, mentors and mentees set off in pairs, eager to see what they could find.

What began as a new experience quickly turned into a delightful adventure. The girls loved being surrounded by nature, away from their usual routines.  Many were surprised by how peaceful and enjoyable birdwatching could be.

As they listened for calls and pointed out flashes of color in the trees, something deeper took flight: connection. Moments like these remind us how simple shared experiences can open doors to trust, joy, and healing.