Summer Encampment
Change Starts Here
The summer program is the heart of the Encampment. It is a true experience in democracy where young people (ages 15-18) who would otherwise never meet form a vibrant participatory community. They come from cities and suburbs; from rural reservations, small towns, big towns; north, south, east, and west. They are diverse in ethnic and cultural identification, gender, and social and economic backgrounds.
As Encampers participate in workshops, field trips, and community activities, they encounter viewpoints different from their own and begin to question and think critically about issues that are woven throughout our daily lives and reflected in the larger society. Staff are available 24/7 to help youth make the link between interpersonal issues and societal issues. Once Encampers internalize this method of questioning everything – not accepting what is presented at face value – they have a life-long skill adaptable to all life situations.
During recent summer programs, Encampers:
- Lived and worked in their Encampment community with youth and adults from many cultures and backgrounds.
- Connected important historical and contemporary issues and explored root causes of injustice.
- Created while exploring the relationship between art and politics.
- Developed their leadership potential.
- Visited spectacular natural environments and famous cultural institutions.
- Engaged in service learning activities in the local community.
- Met with civic leaders and community activists on a national and local level.
- Helped govern their Encampment community.
Jessica, Omar and Petua talk about experiential learning at the summer program. Click image for video.
Brooklynn says, Apply! Click image for video.
Ursa Piper and Melanie on community. Click image for video.
2016 Encampment Mt. Monadnock hike. Photo credit, Deanna Mousseau.
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The EFC has taught me the importance of community activism.
I am very aware of the political climate nationwide … but I don’t know the councilman who is representing me and the people in my neighborhood. My mother and the people in my neighborhood don’t know. … I realized how important speaking in your community is because otherwise, someone is speaking for you without your input and you can never really get the things that you need and want for your community. It’s that type of complacency I need to go home and fight against.