Wild Women Unite weekend is a summer camp for grownups

Whether women are looking for a relaxing weekend with friends or looking to learn some outdoor skills, Wild Women Unite weekend, scheduled for Oct. 3-5, will provide a fun place to meet new friends, laugh out loud and try something new.

Partnering with Lansky Sharpeners and Cabela's, the event has grown to be an opportunity for ladies to learn to enjoy the benefits of being outdoors.

Founder Yvonne Folck has established a growing network of women, which first began in 2003 with a weekend event in Sandy Creek. This year, she will host the weekend on Grand Island with headquarters at Byblos Niagara Resort & Spa and Beaver Island State Park.

Wild Women Unite has partnered with the Wellness Institute of Greater Buffalo and will donate a portion of all ticket sales back to the Institute.

"As a 'Wild Woman,' I insist on sharing my good fortune by helping other women get stronger, so Wild Women Unite has given eight scholarships to veterans, Erie County women and students, and we have provided the opportunity, through the Wellness Institute, for 'day visit passes' for moms and daughters of high school students," Folck said. "By bringing in first-class instructors and equipment to one place, I provide women easy access to try 30 different outdoor activities to see if you want to learn more about it. Each workshop is designed for beginners and offers all levels of fun, from easy living to heart-racing adventure, allowing all women the opportunity to participate. And each instructor has the capacity to continue with each participant in the future, if they choose to take their education to a higher level."

The weekend begins Friday night at the Byblos ballroom with an opening welcome from New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and keynote speaker Jennifer Haddow, who is a world adventurer and owner of Wild Women Expeditions.

Registrations are still being accepted at www.WildWomenUnite.com.