About us
In VISIONS first season in 1989, our participants were exceptional. They still are. Our teen volunteers want to be part of something bigger and to make a difference. Our treasured host communities welcome them like old friends.
The visions story
Our story began in the 1970s, when a few New York friends and educators relocated to a Pennsylvania farm to establish an experiential summer program for teens. The kids thrived by working together, embracing camaraderie, physical labor, and a shared sense of purpose.
Building on this foundation, VISIONS launched in 1988, taking these principles beyond the farm. Teens want to be part of something bigger, and VISIONS gives them the opportunity to work hard and achieve meaningful goals.
See all past VISIONS locations.
Our accomplishments
Construction Projects
More than 1,500 labor projects, including:
- 26 Community Centers
- 3 Medical Clinics
- 66 Homes
- 27 Schools
- 60 Playgrounds
- Wheelchair ramps, firehouses, park pavilions, powwow arbors, baseball dugouts, sheds, outhouses, bridges, dog houses & renovations
Animal Welfare & The Environment
- Spay & neuter clinics
- Puppy foster & adoption programs
- 100s of miles of irrigation canals
- 14 cisterns and wells
- Potable water systems serving hundreds of households
- Trail work, community gardens, removal of invasive species
Social service
- Day camps for thousands of kids
- Serving meals to elders
- Food distribution at soup kitchens
- Swim lessons for people with disabilities
- Helping with community events
I feel like I have a second home. I left with great friends, a sense of accomplishment, and memories to last forever
Maya R.
Our Team
Administration
2026 Dominican republic program staff
2026 Peru program staff
2026 Montana blackfeet program staff
