It is impossible to describe the transformation we had the privilege to witness last year. Young people from literally all walks of life participated: from a young man who had witnessed his best friend being shot and killed, to a young woman who had just emigrated to the United States; students from Davidson County Schools, students from Williamson County schools, students living beneath the poverty line, students living in the wealthiest county in the State of Tennessee. Within three days of the camp, these constructs, labels, and barriers disappeared. In their stead were true friendships, trust and acceptance.
This year, we will expand and deepen the experience for these deserving young people by offering a two-week summer program that will take place here in Nashville AND New Orleans, LA. By providing more registrations spaces, we will be able to reach 50 rising high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors from Middle Tennessee.
The first week of camp is called Learning the Ropes of Leadership and week two of the camp is called Putting the Plan in Action: Operation Service Learning in New Orleans. Our campers will be provided leadership skills, empathy building exercises, critical thinking skills, college tours, relationships with caring adults, and an opportunity to give back to others.
The true magic of change happens when a young person feels safe, respected and has a way to give back.
To register, please email stars@starsnashville.org.
