Staff

Bob Callahan, President

Since 1975, Bob has led the field of Adventure Based Counseling (ABC). He launched Sierra II, the first ABC program in Virginia. A former probation officer, he has many years of experience working with at-risk and adjudicated youth. Bob also launched programs providing experiential-based training and development for corporations and adventure travel throughout the country.

Bob became an EMT in 1980, and was once awarded EMT of the year. He has been an advanced life support training and regional CISM (Critical Incident Stress Management) Team Member. Bob is a NOLS and Outward Bound alumni and safety auditor.

A triathlete and runner, he enjoys a challenge and a variety of outdoor pursuits. He has run more than 75 marathons, including the Boston Marathon. He also participated in 50 triathlons, not the least of which was the Great Floridian Ironman. He climbed the 4-mile-high Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania in 1995, carrying the ashes of his father, another outdoor adventure buff.

Shawn Callahan, Director

Shawn literally grew up in the adventure program business. He has a degree in outdoor recreation from Ferrum College and has been leading outdoor programs since 1993. He’s led innovative outdoor programs serving youth, adults, and corporations. He directs efforts to integrate orienteering into youth programs, develops unique programs for foster children and at-risk youth, and develops outdoor programs that put an emphasis on service learning.

Shawn has several years experience as director and facilitator of Adventure Based Counseling (ABC) programs, challenge courses, service programs, adventure travel, and organizational and team building programs. He is trained as a Wilderness First Responder, Advanced Ropes Instructor Trainer, canoe and kayak instructor, and wilderness guide, among other accomplishments. Shawn enjoys running, backpacking, sea kayaking, and, of course, orienteering.

Both Bob and Shawn have received numerous awards, including the Stihl Hometown Heroes award most recently.