camplogowhite600Summer 2023 PS Program

In summer 2023, we are excited to invite returning Seeds to Camp as Peer Supports, or “PSs.”

Our cohort of PSs will engage in a rigorous leadership program that is designed to deepen their engagement with the skills of dialogue, community-building, leadership, and action-taking.

At Camp, they will be tasked with fostering a positive and inclusive Camp culture for first-time campers. They will offer daily opportunities (with guidance from staff) to ensure that all campers feel included and supported. They will participate in Camp activities and share in Camp life. At the same time, they will engage fully in a rigorous daily program in dialogue across lines of difference, leadership, and group development—all alongside their cohort of fellow PSs. The PS Program is an advanced leadership program that provides the opportunity for returning youth to deepen their skills and focus on their areas of interest.

Seeds applying for this program should be prepared to assume leadership positions on a daily basis, including being responsible for tables at meals, leading some evening activities, and collaborating creatively with Camp Staff on tone-setting and culture-building for the Seeds community.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?

Applicants must be at least 14 years old and have completed 9th grade by the start of camp, July 9, 2023, and cannot turn 18 years old before July 30, 2023.

Applicants must have attended a previous intensive Seeds of Peace leadership program (e.g. Camp or a Virtual Core Leadership Program)

2023 CAMP DATES

July 9-23, 2023

LOGISTICS & EXPECTATIONS

PSs will live in bunks alongside first-time campers, welcoming them into the life of Seeds of Peace.

The daily schedule for the PS Program will be different than first-time campers, but returning youth are expected to participate fully in the day-to-day activities and obligations of Camp.

PSs are expected to balance two very important pieces of the role: Being an on-Camp leader and peer support to new campers who are experiencing the joys and challenges of Camp for the first time, and engaging fully in the advanced leadership and dialogue programming offered to them. Our Camp staff are committed to offering PSs with support and encouragement in filling both roles.

WHAT DOES THIS LOOK LIKE IN ACTION?

Being an on-Camp leader and peer support to first-time campers:
• Serving as a table counselor and building an inclusive mealtime culture

• Practicing boundary-setting and listening skills in one-on-one conversations with peers

• Supporting counselors in leading activities (such as waterfront, athletics, and arts)

• Serving as role models for positive interactions and embodying Seeds of Peace values around Camp

• Developing and facilitating 1-2 inclusive, engaging Evening Activities for the benefit of first-year campers

• Designing together with other PSs ways to serve as Camp leaders and peer supporters, both proactively and in response to camp dynamics and culture

Engaging fully in an advanced leadership and dialogue program:

• Participating in dialogue sessions with other PSs around leadership styles, approaches, identity, and power

• Participating in community action programming as a cohort of PSs or as supporters to new campers

• Participating in Camp activities (athletics, arts, special activity, waterfront, etc.)

• Offering thoughtful and constructive ideas to create an inclusive and welcoming Camp culture.

• Complete the requirements for at least two advanced leadership certifications. Certifications that may be offered in Summer 2023 include:

  • Dialogue Facilitation – How to run dialogue programs as lead facilitator.
  • Conflict Transformation – How to bridge differences in any context using skills including mediation, conflict resolution, and restorative justice circles.
  • Group Facilitation – Pedagogy around facilitating group-led work with a multitude of purposes and goals.
  • Leadership Development – Skills, frameworks, and tensions of leadership and authority.
  • Community-based Action – Building skills for organizing and implementing projects and actions for social change in their communities
  • Policy and Legislative Action – Using negotiation as a tool for achieving community and societal change.

HOW DO I APPLY?

Complete the 2023 Camp Application ››

The 2023 Camper application is the same for all campers. At the beginning of the application, you will have the opportunity to select whether you are a new camper or a returning camper and you will be taken to the correct application questions. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis, but spots are limited, so please submit your application early to be considered! Priority deadline is February 15. Final deadline is March 31.