Through service work and dynamic experience, VISIONS offers new perspectives and deep learning while working for and with under-resourced communities.

Through construction-based and other service and on-site living, VISIONS introduces teens and middle school students to cultures very different from their own. Participants are challenged to grow thoughtfully and intentionally within a community of peers and adult leaders. The service work accomplished is a gift to local hosts who welcome VISIONS participants into their homes and lives.

VISIONS assists organizations that serve under-resourced communities. We provide labor and raw materials for projects designated by communities. Depending on the duration and size of a program, VISIONS provides $3,000 to $9,000 for each location’s projects, which we fund in full or by adding funds to local funding sources for projects.

VISIONS: The Ingredients

• A coed summer service experience for teens ages 14-18 blending ambitious service, cross-cultural living and learning, adventurous exploration. Middle school programs are for students ages 11-14, though with very few 11 year olds. Students aged 14 may choose between a high school or middle school program.
• Group is gender-balanced. Maximum group size is 24-25 with 5-6 leaders including the program director. Staff / student ratio is 1 to 4 or 5.
• Service comprises 55% - 60% of the experience. Intercultural activities and exploration integrated throughout every week.
• Each program has a central construction project and other service such as sustainable development, environmental or agricultural work, volunteering with young children or the elderly, internships with local artisans, farmers, fishermen, vendors and more.
• French- or Spanish-language immersion in some programs. Participants must have minimum 2 years high school foreign language or equivalent proficiency.
• Participants learn building skills from carpenters on staff and/or local masons and maestros.
• Home base residence is a community building, e.g., a school, community center, church hall or large hostel. We work alongside and socialize with community residents and long-time friends on site.
• Emphasis on community living and teamwork. Regular weekly gatherings encourage open communication. Participants and staff share insights and reflect on events in an informal setting through voluntary disclosure.
• All programs include sight seeing, visits to cities, markets and places of cultural, historic, geographic interest.
• All programs incorporate exploration recreation and recreational trips weekly.