Spectrum is one of five programs offered at Southern Illinois University’s Touch of Nature Environmental Center. Touch of Nature Environmental Center is a 3000 acre facility south of Carbondale, Illinois and surrounded by Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge, Litte Grassy Lake (1000 acres) and Giant City State Park. The Spectrum Wilderness Program has been in operation since 1976. The Spectrum Program conducts 30-day wilderness challenge programs for youth at risk, ages 13-18. The programs start in Southern Illinois Shawnee National Forest for a 10-12 day ‘immersion’ phase and then travel to an expedition site in North America (commonly White Otter Wilderness, Canada or Big Bend National Park, Texas) Three field staff and one logistics staff create a safe environment (physically and emotionally) for up to eleven youth to challenge themselves and learn through experience and natural consequences. Three basic concepts define the philosophy and style of the Spectrum Program: Unconditional positive regard, reality therapy techniques, and wilderness stress challenge. Courses are offered year round and generally serve clients within the state of Illinois, Missouri and Indiana. The Spectrum program maintains up to 10 staff year round with up to 12 additional staff for the summer season. Staff positions range from intern/apprentice to Outdoor Program Leader and include contractual and summer seasonal to full time year round.