Emily founded Venture Free in 2014. She has a great love for adventure and enjoys inspiring those around her to live happy and healthy lives. She started on her journey as an outdoor educator as a surf instructor and has been working with kids for over 18 years. Her positive attitude and zest for life are contagious – she makes every day at camp great fun!

Emily’s education and certifications:

Julie works at Kings Mountain Elementary School as a paraprofessional in the K/1 classroom and leads the art in action program. Julie has worked with students for over 20 years, and her goal is to promote physical, mental, and social development through the implementation of outdoor recreational activities.

Bobby has been a part Venture Free since it began back in 2014. Now many years, camps, and trips later, Bobby continues to be involved in Venture Free by maintaining gear and equipment and serving as a surf counselor for the annual surf trip. He remains instrumental to Venture Free's operations!

My name is Reese Cullen, and I grew up in San Carlos and went to Woodside High School, where I participated in swimming and water polo. In 2024, I graduated with a B.A. in Child Development from CSU Chico. While in college, I gained valuable experience through multiple internships focused on working with children and families. I also spent three years working closely with a neurodivergent young adult on the autism spectrum, forming a strong bond with their family, who I now consider my Chico family. I’ve always had a passion for supporting children and am dedicated to fostering their growth, success, and learning. I’m especially excited about the opportunity to work in the mountains, where I can engage in outdoor activities with the children and explore the natural world together. I’m looking forward to becoming a part of the team and contributing in a meaningful way at Kings Mountain Elementary. Go mountain lions!

Hi! My name is Morgan Dundas, I’m 22 years old and live in Half Moon Bay :) I’ve spent the last two years as a sped paraprofessional at Half Moon Bay High School and a ranch hand! I studied philosophy at Lewis and Clark college in 2021-23. Prior to that I’ve had jobs as a surf instruction and tutor. I love working with kids and providing them with safe spaces to explore and grow! In my free time I love to hike with my dog, swim in the ocean, do arts and crafts, listen to Billy Strings, travel and fish! I can’t wait to meet your kiddos!!

Since venture free’s beginning in 2014, Maddi has been a treasured participant. As an original camper who then continued on as a terra teen, she is now given the role as a lead summer counselor. The skills Maddi developed through VF have shaped her adult life providing her the experience and confidence to start her own business, backpack new countries, adventure through extreme conditions, and always appreciate a challenge. VF taught her to be adaptable and cherish life's adventures. The influence Venture Free has had on Maddi is why she remains so dedicated to the organization and its mission. As a counselor, she loves introducing young campers to new experiences and sharing the freedom of the outdoors.

Taj joined the Venture Free Team in 2021. He loves to bring his enthusiasm and positivity to camp everyday. He is a favorite of campers and staff alike! After this summer's trips he will begin his college journey at the University of Kentucky.

Joe joined Venture Free in 2018 as a high schooler with limited outdoor experience. He credits his time in Venture Free with not only helping him to acquire the skills and experience to adventure responsibly, but also for helping him grow as a person and leader. As a member of the Venture Free team, Joe is helping to create new programs and expand Venture Free’s influence! He is currently in his senior year at UC Berkeley.