Kim Keprios was first introduced to Wilderness Inquiry after graduating from the University of Minnesota in 1980. As a therapeutic recreation therapist she attended a workshop where Wilderness Inquiry was highlighted. She was immediately intrigued and applied for the summer Boundary Waters trip the same year.
The BWCA trip with WI opened her eyes to the beauty and power of Mother Nature. On this adventure she learned the importance of our dependence on one another. Whether on the trail, in the workplace, or within our communities, this value was integral for her.
A few years after her trip she left the health care sector and started as the Director of Camping and Leisure Services for The Arc Greater Twin Cities. Later joining the YMCA Backpack Club, she accepted an invitation for a cross-country ski trip that became a 25 year tradition. Kim truly believes her immersion with WI in the BWCA set her on a path she would never had imagined for herself.
Kim Keprios continued on to become the CEO for The Arc Greater Twin Cities. Her organization partnered with WI to introduce people with developmental disabilities to canoeing through community events.
As a lifelong advocate for people with different abilities, she loves the mission of WI and the impact it has on both individuals and communities. She appreciates how WI changes lives and attitudes through action. We’re constantly seeking new and creative ways to bring people together through outdoor experiences.
Favorite Wilderness Inquiry Memory
My WI trip to the BWCA will forever stand out in my ‘Top Ten’ list of life events to cherish. Paul Schurke and his then girlfriend Sue were our trip leaders. Paul was an exceptional guide – he had trail experience from the BWCA all the way to the North Pole! Sue was an equal partner with different skills – she played her guitar for us and gave thoughtful support along the way.
We had quite a cast of characters on our trip, from contemplative to hilarious. Jeanne Calvit and her former spouse from Germany both added a constant source of laughter no matter the circumstance we were facing. The trip featured endless stories around the fire, creative problem-solving, and teamwork.
Prior to the trip I had never been in a canoe and wasn’t the greatest swimmer – I nearly failed gym class because I refused to jump in the deep end. My trip partners were Brian and Dorman, both men who were blind. My time with these two men was profound for me. I was struck by their courage, trust in themselves, sense of humor, and endless patience. Our group was unified in spirit and recognized that each member contributed to our experience.
Back at Wilderness Inquiry
My life has come full circle returning to WI as the Interim Executive Director. It is an incredible honor to be among the extraordinary people who make up Wilderness Inquiry. As a lover of the outdoors and sibling of a brother who is differently abled, I am grateful for this opportunity to serve and support WI. We all are facing extraordinary challenges with COVID-19. However, I know we will get to the other side of the woods together!
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We’re excited to welcome back Kim Keprios to Wilderness Inquiry! We’re thankful for her positivity and leadership during this time. Welcome back, Kim!
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