CLARKSVILLE — Looking for a unique summer experience for your high school student? Anytown Youth Leadership Institute is an intensive, one-week residential camp with lessons, and friends, that last a lifetime. Held at Camp Joy in Clarksville, Ohio, students immerse themselves in creative exercises as they explore challenging topics such as racism, gender identity, disability and economic status.
Anytown is operated by the National Conference for Community and Justice of Greater Dayton and starts on Sunday, June 19th then runs through Friday, June 24th. The total cost for programs, food, transportation and accommodations is $175 and only $25 if the attendee in on free or reduced lunch.
“Our community is becoming increasingly diverse and we need young leaders who are comfortable in this changing environment,” said Mary Tyler, executive director of NCCJ. “Anytown develops leaders by helping young people gain a better understanding of other people as well as explore their own perceptions. By the end of the week, these teens have the skills and confidence to speak up for themselves and others”
“It’s a challenging and rewarding week. We use experiential teaching and thought–provoking exercises to help them really understand diversity issues. By living and learning together, they also get to know people from different backgrounds, building on their experience,” she said.
“Anytown is staffed by experienced counselors and trained volunteers (many are Anytown grads). Because many of the counselors are Anytown graduates, they help these teens get the most out of this time,” said Tyler.
“Camp Joy is a great location, with hiking trails, modern cabins, swimming and an excellent staff. The setting facilities learning and also makes the week really enjoyable. NCCJ handles the transportation from Dayton to Camp Joy in Clarksville, Ohio, so parents don’t have to worry about that,” said Tyler.
“We can keep the costs so low because of funding from our generous sponsors, Premier Health Kettering Family Foundation and several wonderful individuals. The camp costs more than $1,000 per person but we only charge a fraction of that, thanks to these sponsorships, “said Tyler.
NCCJ is still accepting applications. Details and registration forms are available at nccjgreaterdayton.org or by calling 936-222-6225.
For more information, visit [nccjgreaterdayton.org]nccjgreaterdayton.org or call NCCJ at 937-222-6225.
