About the Youth Rites of Passage (YROP)
In every generation, young men face the challenge of stepping beyond the familiar ground of childhood into the unknown terrain of adulthood. The Youth Rites of Passage (YROP) offers a sacred, time-tested path for this journey.
Rooted in Illuman’s Men’s Rites of Passage (MROP) and adapted specifically for teen boys, this four-day, three-night experience helps young men ages 16 and 17 take a meaningful step toward maturity. Through nature-based rituals, storytelling, council circles, contemplative space, and trusted elder guidance, YROP invites boys to explore their inner world and take responsibility for the kind of men they are becoming.
We do not walk this journey alone. Each participant must be accompanied by a male mentor: a father, grandfather, uncle, or other trusted man willing to hold sacred space alongside him. Together, both generations learn, grow, and deepen in relationship with each other and the wider circle of men.
Event Details
Dates:
Wednesday, July 9 – Sunday, July 13, 2025
Location:
South Fork, Colorado
(Exact location and travel directions provided upon registration.)
Who Should Attend:
Teen boys aged 16–17 accompanied by a male mentor (father, grandfather, uncle, or other adult companion)
Cost:
$125 per youth
$125 per accompanying adult
Travel Info:
Closest airport: San Luis Valley Regional Airport (Alamosa, CO) – approx. 50 minutes to South Fork.
Carpooling may be available.
Please note: Denver International Airport is approx. 5 hours by car from South Fork.
Arrival & Departure Times
Arrive by: 6:00 pm (Mountain Time) on Wednesday, July 9
Depart after: 9:30 am (Mountain Time) on Sunday, July 13
Please make travel plans accordingly to ensure full participation in the program.
How to Register
To begin your registration:
📧 Email Andrew Rice at ariceokc@gmail.com
You will receive:
An application form
A medical waiver
Instructions for payment
Travel and packing details