Ancestral Skills for a Sustainable Modern Life
Learn About Our 24-Hour Survival Challenge
Take on the 24-Hour Survival Challenge:
Build Skills, Confidence, & Camaraderie
Imagine this: A storm has knocked out power across the area for days, leaving you without access to heating, cooking, or clean water. Or perhaps you’ve wandered a little too far off the beaten path while hiking, only to realize you’re lost as the sun begins to set. These scenarios are daunting, yet they’re not so far-fetched. In fact, they highlight just how crucial basic survival skills can be in our modern world.
The good news is that these skills aren’t just for hardcore adventurers or doomsday preppers. They’re for all of us—ordinary people who want to be prepared for anything life throws our way. And what better way to learn and practice these skills than by taking part in our 24-Hour Survival Challenge, a unique opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and experience nature in a whole new way.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or have a little more experience, this challenge is designed to guide you through the essential tools and techniques of survival in a fun, supportive environment. Led by Ranger Eric Powers of CEED and Mike Evans of Forgotten Skillz, the 24-Hour Survival Challenge takes place at two beautiful locations this October: Sands Point Preserve and CEED. It’s the culmination of our Wilderness Survival Series, but don’t worry—you don’t need to have attended our previous workshops to participate. This event is for anyone who wants to learn, practice, and thrive in the great outdoors.
Why Survival Skills Matter
At Forgotten Skillz, we believe that survival skills aren’t just for wilderness enthusiasts or those preparing for life off the grid. They’re for everyone. In today’s world, where we rely so heavily on modern conveniences, it’s easy to forget how quickly things can change. A storm could knock out power for days. A camping trip could turn into an unexpected adventure. Even in urban and suburban environments, understanding how to stay safe and provide for yourself can make all the difference in an emergency.
The 24-Hour Survival Challenge is more than just a weekend adventure; it’s a way to equip yourself with practical, hands-on skills that can be applied in a variety of situations. From fire-making to shelter-building, these aren’t just wilderness skills—they’re life skills that empower you to handle emergencies with confidence and calm.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the essential skills you’ll learn during the challenge:
What You’ll Learn
The 24-Hour Survival Challenge covers a wide range of survival techniques that are as relevant today as they were for our ancestors. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the skills you’ll learn and practice over the course of the weekend:
Shelter-Building
The ability to build a shelter is one of the most critical survival skills. A well-constructed shelter can protect you from the elements, regulate body temperature, and provide a sense of security in the wilderness. During the challenge, you’ll work alongside your fellow participants to create a shelter that’s sturdy, weatherproof, and comfortable enough for a night under the stars. Whether you use natural materials or modern gear like tarps and tents, you’ll leave the challenge knowing how to construct a life-saving shelter in any environment.
Fire-Making
Fire is essential for warmth, cooking, and safety. You’ll learn how to start a fire using a variety of methods, from traditional flint and steel to modern fire starters. We’ll also cover the importance of gathering the right materials, such as tinder, kindling, and fuel, and show you how to keep a fire going even in challenging conditions. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of building a roaring campfire from scratch—especially when it provides the warmth for a potluck dinner with your newfound friends.
Foraging
Understanding how to forage for food and resources in the wild can turn a survival situation from desperate to manageable. During our foraging session, we’ll show you how to identify edible plants and useful natural materials in your environment. Whether you’re foraging for food or collecting materials for shelter or fire, this skill helps you connect with nature on a deeper level while preparing you for real-world emergencies.
Cooking in the Wild
Cooking over an open flame is both an art and a survival skill. As part of the potluck dinner, you’ll get the chance to cook alongside other participants using natural fire methods. This experience not only teaches valuable techniques for preparing food in the wild but also fosters a sense of community as everyone shares their favorite camp dishes. From warming up hearty meals to boiling water for safety, you’ll practice the skills needed to feed yourself and others in the wilderness.
Skills Practice
Throughout the challenge, you’ll have plenty of time to practice skills like cordage making, water purification, burn bowls, and more. These practical, hands-on activities provide a deeper understanding of how our ancestors lived sustainably off the land. And they’re not just survival techniques—they’re creative, meditative tasks that can help you develop a greater appreciation for the resources around you.
The Experience:
Camaraderie in the Wild
One of the most rewarding aspects of the 24-Hour Survival Challenge is the sense of camaraderie that develops among participants. You’re not just learning survival skills—you’re sharing the experience with others who, like you, are eager to push their limits and learn something new. Whether you’re building shelters together, swapping stories around the campfire, or encouraging each other through surprise challenges, the bonds you form during the challenge are lasting.
This isn’t a solo endeavor; it’s a group adventure where you’ll not only learn from our expert instructors but also from each other. More experienced participants will have the opportunity to share their knowledge and insights, while beginners can take comfort in knowing they’re supported every step of the way.
The shared experience of building, foraging, cooking, and camping together creates a sense of community that’s hard to find in today’s fast-paced world. You’ll leave the weekend not only with new survival skills but also with new friendships and a deeper connection to nature and yourself.
Why You Should Join Us
If you’ve ever wanted to step away from the hustle and bustle of modern life and truly connect with nature, this is your chance. The 24-Hour Survival Challenge offers a unique opportunity to learn life-saving skills in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. It’s not about survival at all costs—it’s about thriving in the outdoors, building confidence in your abilities, and discovering just how capable you really are.
Whether you’re preparing for an emergency, looking for a new adventure, or simply seeking to reconnect with the natural world, this event is for you. With expert guidance from Ranger Eric Powers and Mike Evans, you’ll learn to not just survive, but thrive, no matter the circumstances.
Ready to Take On the Challenge?
If you’re excited to learn new skills, meet like-minded adventurers, and experience the thrill of the wilderness, don’t miss out on our upcoming 24-Hour Survival Challenges:
📍 Sands Point Preserve: October 5th-6th, 2024
📍 CEED: October 26th-27th, 2024
Bring your camping gear, your favorite campfire meal, and your sense of adventure! You don’t need any prior experience—we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Spots are limited, so register now at www.ForgottenSkillz.com/events and secure your place in the wilderness!
Author: Michael A. Evans
.Michael A Evans is a passionate advocate for preserving and reviving ancestral knowledge through modern applications. As the founder of Forgotten Skillz, he is dedicated to teaching the skills of self-sufficiency, bushcraft, and sustainable living, drawing inspiration from historical practices to empower individuals in today’s world. Michael’s work extends beyond survival skills; he also leads Vision Martial Arts in Patchogue, NY, where he guides both adults and children in realizing their potential through martial arts. Additionally, Michael contributes to the educational field as a collaborator on the “Little Laurie Science Stories” book series and the Ninja Née Science Education Program. With a background in therapeutic massage from the NY College of Health Professions, Michael continues to provide holistic care as the lead therapist at Massage LI.
