VISIONS Service Adventures Blog Ingredients and Benefits of VISIONS Summer Programs

Building Confidence: Through immersion in different cultures and by working on ambitious projects in areas of need, VISIONS is an extremely grounding experience that gives kids an opportunity to be part of something bigger than themselves.Making New Friends: Most teens come to VISIONS on their own, and we have a policy that no more than two friends can come together. That means that the group dynamic begins on day one of the program. More than a teen tour, VISIONS provides committed time in a community so that real friendships and understanding can grow.Circle Meetings: Circle is a time for leaders and students to reflect on and grow from the shared experiences of living and working in a new culture. We carve out time 3 to 4 times a week to listen carefully and speak plainly to each other. Circle mirrors the interpersonal communication that all communities experience, while encouraging participants to learn about themselves and reflect on their impact on their community.Projects with Lasting Impact: VISIONS dedicates at least five days a week to service work and focuses its primary efforts on construction projects that have lasting impacts. Participants learn technical skills, the value of teamwork, and problem-solving with the assistance of professional carpenters and contractors.Building Empathy & Gratitude: By working on real projects in areas of great need participants return home with increased empathy and gratitude for all they have at home.Improving Languages: VISIONS offers English-speaking sites as well as Spanish and French language programs where participants live in communities with local people who help to build the language skills.Dedicated Adult Mentors: VISIONS maintains a 1 to 4 leader to student ratio, which is hard to find in summer programs. We provide carefully crafted programs with leaders who help each student tap into their true potential.