The 2025 Camp Rising Sun Summer Program, organized by the Louis August Jonas Foundation (LAJF), offers a unique opportunity for teenagers from around the globe to engage in a transformative leadership experience.
This full-scholarship program is designed to cultivate compassionate leadership skills, foster community, and promote personal growth among participants.
Below is a comprehensive overview of this exciting opportunity, including essential details on eligibility, application processes, and benefits.
Opportunity Summary
- Program Type: Full-scholarship summer camp
- Location: Upstate New York, USA
- Duration: 4 weeks (two sessions: July and August)
- Sponsor: Louis August Jonas Foundation (LAJF)
- Eligibility: Open to teenagers worldwide aged 15 to 17
- Application Deadline: Varies by region
About the Opportunity
Camp Rising Sun is more than just a summer camp; it is a community where young people learn from each other and develop leadership skills in a supportive environment.
Participants will engage in various activities that emphasize teamwork, self-discovery, and cultural exchange.
The camp’s mission is to inspire a lifelong commitment to responsible leadership and community service.Each summer, Camp Rising Sun hosts 120 campers—60 young men and 60 young women—who come together from over 30 countries and multiple U.S. states.
The program encourages campers to step outside their comfort zones, express their individuality, and build lasting friendships.
Courses Available
While specific courses may vary each year, campers can expect to participate in:
- Leadership workshops
- Team-building exercises
- Cultural exchange activities
- Community service projects
- Outdoor adventures
These courses are designed to enhance personal development and foster a deeper understanding of global issues.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Camp Rising Sun Summer Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 15 years old when the camp session starts and not older than 17 by the end of the session (birthdate between August 25, 2008, and June 24, 2010).
- Be available for the entire four-week in-person session.
- Have proficiency in English to ensure safety instructions are understood and maximize participation benefits.
- International applicants must possess a valid passport and visa (if applicable). U.S. residents do not need a passport for application or attendance.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for:
- Teenagers interested in developing leadership skills.
- Young individuals eager to meet peers from diverse backgrounds.
- Those who wish to contribute positively to their communities upon returning home.
If you are passionate about making a difference and ready for an adventure that will challenge you personally and socially, this program is for you!
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the Camp Rising Sun Summer Program offers numerous benefits:
- Full Scholarship: Admitted campers pay no tuition fees. Financial assistance is available for travel costs if needed.
- Personal Growth: Gain invaluable leadership experience that will enhance your resume and personal development.
- Cultural Exchange: Build friendships with peers from around the world while learning about different cultures.
- Supportive Environment: Engage with counselors who guide you through various activities without the fear of failure.
Benefits of Participation
The benefits of attending Camp Rising Sun extend beyond the summer experience:
- Develop lifelong friendships with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Enhance your leadership capabilities through hands-on experiences.
- Return home with a broader perspective on global issues and community engagement.
How to Apply
The application process for Camp Rising Sun involves several steps:
- Complete Application: Fill out the online application form available on the LAJF website.
- Reference Submission: Provide one reference from an adult who knows you well (e.g., teacher, coach). Family members cannot serve as references.
- Attend Information Session (Optional): While not required, attending an information session can provide valuable insights into the program.
- Interview Process: Selected applicants will be invited for an interview between January 15th and March 1st.
- Final Decision: Admissions decisions will be communicated by March based on regional selection committee evaluations.
For more information or to apply now, click here to Apply Now.
Application Deadlines
The application deadlines vary by region:
- December 31st: Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, South Africa
- January 7th: Ecuador
- January 15th: All other regions not listed above
- February 1st: Palestine, Poland, Greece, various U.S. states
- February 8th: Germany
- February 15th: Various European countries
- March 2nd: France
- March 28th: South Korea
- April 13th: Japan
Ensure you submit your application before your region’s deadline!
Conclusion
The 2025 Camp Rising Sun Summer Program represents an exceptional opportunity for teenagers seeking personal growth through leadership development in a global context.
Apply Now!
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