Taking to the outdoors for health, healing, family and community
Luan To cherishes nothing more than spending time with his daughter, Cattleya, 9. Whether hiking, canoeing or camping, every other week he explores new parks and trails throughout the Twin Cities with his daughter by his side.
But the pair’s adventures haven’t always been this way. “There were times when our experiences felt limited. I didn’t know what to do or what we could do,” says To.
That changed when To joined Metro Men and Fathers, a University of Minnesota Extension health and nutrition program designed to create a space for men and fathers from diverse cultural backgrounds to bond in nature and understand their role in the health and wellbeing of their families.
Life changes can stress body and spirit
“Men and fathers play a crucial role in family health, yet there are limited health and nutrition programs targeted toward them,” says SNAP-Ed* Health and Wellness Coordinator Thao Pham.
As a first-generation immigrant, Pham wants to support men and fathers who are new to the country and may not be as familiar with U.S. systems, places and resources.
“Back in their home countries, these men were physically active in their culture. When they come here, they become isolated and reduce their social activities,” says Pham.
Collaborating with the Three Rivers Park District, the program offers a range of group outdoor activities to encourage men to be physically active and build a sense of camaraderie. By providing activities like fishing, bird watching, woodworking, hiking, biking, paddle boating, canoeing, fire-building and camping, men find comfort in a community-oriented environment reminiscent of their home countries.
From participant to mentor
Now in his third year with the program, To helps lead activities with Pham as a community mentor.
As a mentor, To takes pride in seeing new participants open up and embrace the activities. “At first, some people might be uncomfortable, but after one session, they start to feel at home,” To says.
The men also open up and get to know one another through the art of photovoice, or a method that combines photography and storytelling.
“We express how we feel through photos,” says To. “It gives us a way to reflect on our activities. When we share with the group, we talk about our kids, culture and life experiences.”
One of the group’s favorite activities is learning new recipes and sharing meals. As Pham and his team teach participants how to cook healthy outdoor recipes that hold cultural relevance, many participants are pleasantly surprised to discover they can prepare Pho, a Vietnamese soup dish, outdoors.
“Seeing the looks on people’s faces when they try new foods, learn how to ride a bike or watch birds — I can’t believe how much they actually love to watch the birds — that’s what this program is all about; new experiences, new joy,” says To.
For To, the program has enriched his life and strengthened his bond with his daughter. “I joined because of her,” he says. “I wanted to do better for myself, my health and my daughter. I’m now helping other men and fathers do the same.”
*Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education
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