A Message from the Founder

As we begin our second year, the Adirondack Folk School has moved from the “dream” stage into a full-fledged reality.  With so many firsts for which we can all be proud, none stands out more to me than seeing the vision of our school realized by the students who participated in our classes.  We set out to be a school that would “inspire the heart, hands & mind” and it was rewarding to see it felt by so many.  None of this would have been possible without the significant support and encouragement of our members and volunteers – thank you all!  I received numerous kind notes and emails in which people expressed how much they enjoyed their experience at the school.  I was particularly touched by a woman and her son who took the “A Stick & A Hike” class, and later told me how much it meant to them.

There is something special about creating with ones own hands.  Learning new skills and trying new things touches us on so many levels.  We gain a greater appreciation for the arts, of nature, and our Adirondacks.  We find we really do have creativity within us, even though we tell everyone we’re really not creative.  And most importantly, we feel a sense of personal accomplishment having explored new experiences.

We hope to see you at the school soon.  In 2011, we begin in earnest as a year-round school offering many exciting new classes.  Take a class, volunteer or just stop by to say hello.  Be one of our “ambassadors” and tell friends about the school, come together and make something special.  Make a part of the Adirondacks yours.

Jim Mandle

Founder