How Senior Vice President at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty is transforming the lives of under-resourced youth.
Written by: Riley Kaminer
In 1990, Drew Kern and his father embarked on a transformative journey that would spark a movement. Spurred by an ad in the Miami Herald offering discounted children’s tickets, they invited a teenager from a local youth agency to join them on a hiking trip in Montana. This simple act of sharing love for the outdoors with someone less privileged laid the foundation for Big City Mountaineers (BCM..)
Kern, now a Senior Vice President at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty, continues to honor his family’s legacy through his role on BCMs national board of directors. The goal? To help youth build confidence, resilience, and a deep connection to the natural world.
“My dad believed that nature could be transformative,” Kern shared. “He wanted to give back to the community, especially to children who didn’t have access to the outdoors. That belief has been at the heart of BCM since day one.”
Kern has personally led ten of these metamorphic trips. He shares stories of kids, some from the foster care system, who start the week uncertain and wary but finish with newfound self-esteem and a sense of achievement. BCM’s impact is undeniable, extending from Miami to hubs in Colorado, California, Washington, Minnesota, Massachusetts, and Alabama.
“We want to show these kids that they can put everything they need on their back, hike up a mountain for five days, and come out stronger,” Kern said. “It’s amazing to see them grow and flourish through these experiences.”
Reflecting on the 11,000 youths served and 45,000 nights under the stars, Kern is excited for the future. BCM is poised to continue its legacy, touching more lives and proving that a simple journey into the wilderness can be the catalyst for profound personal growth.
This summer, BCM has several exciting trips planned across the country – including expeditions in Colorado, California, and the Boundary Waters of Minnesota. If you’re inspired by its mission, there are many ways to help. Donations of gear or funds, volunteering as a mentor, or simply spreading the word about BCM’s work can make a significant difference. For more information on how to get involved, visit www.BigCityMountaineers.org.
