Bridge Hawaii

In the middle of the Pacific Ocean, over two thousand miles from the nearest significant land mass, lay the Hawaiian Islands. First settled by Polynesian explorers from Tahiti who made the voyage in outrigger canoes around 1,500 years ago, modern Hawaii is home to a unique mix of people of Polynesian, Filipino, Japanese and European descent.

This island paradise is known for its endless beaches, crystal blue waters, lush mountain forests, hidden valleys, spectacular waterfalls, breathtaking seaside cliffs, monster surfing waves and active volcanoes. These natural features have attracted countless tourists to the islands over the past fifty years, but at Windsor Mountain, we believe that the true beauty of Hawaii can be found in its warm, friendly people and their unique culture based on the concept of Pilialoha (friendship) and Mahalo (appreciation).

Bridge Hawaii 2009 offers an excellent opportunity for a motivated group of students to have tons of fun, put camp counseling skills into action, and study the concepts of leadership and group dynamics. Students who participate in the Bridge Hawaii program will:

• Work alongside Hawaiian peers to set up camp games and activities for local youth.

• Experience the natural beauty of three islands by land and sea—swim, surf, snorkel, and hike!

• Compare and contrast the environmental and political issues of each of the islands.

• Gain appreciation and respect for Hawaiian culture by helping to preserve the culture and land through service learning projects

• Discover how the non-native species of plants, animals and humans have changed, and are impacting the islands.

• Unveil the history of the islands.

Who Should Participate?

This program is designed for students interested in sharing cross-cultural experiences, community service learning, and leadership development. We are looking for ambitious, adventurous students who are committed to service learning, interested in working with younger children and eager to share and teach new sports, games, theater, dance, arts and crafts, music and other creative activities.  Students with leadership and teaching experience will excel on this program, and should arrive with an open mind, prepared to meet new people, encounter new cultures, and top off their years at Windsor Mountain with the adventure of a lifetime.

2009 Proposed Itinerary:

click here to view 2009 Proposed Calendar

Days 1-3: Orientation. Get accustomed to camping, cooking, and living with your group. Become familiar with Hawaiian culture through Magical Mystery Tours, interviewing locals, and enjoying activities such as snorkeling and hiking.

Days 4-8: The Big Island. Travel to the southern part of the Big Island and explore the underground lava tubes, steam vents, and oozing molten rock of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Day 9: Fly to Molokai. Travel through Oahu to get to Molokai.

Days 10-20: Collaborate with the local Youth Center to design and run activities for the children on this small and rural island.  At night, arrange events for the children and their families, perhaps a talent show or a game of Capture the Flag. Other community service opportunities abound in these rural farming communities: weed taro patches, support aquaculture as you help native Hawaiians with their land, and learn about what is being done to preserve traditional Hawaiian culture.

Days 21-29: Ferry to Maui. Paddle traditional outrigger canoes at the Kihei Canoe Club. Hike and see the sunrise atop the ancient volcano of Haleakala National Park. Find out what local youth do for fun at the teen center, and compare and contrast your own life with the life you just experienced on Molokai. Take a chance and test your balance off the shore of Maui when your group takes surf lessons!

Day 30: Fly home! Reflect on your experience and say goodbye to new friends as you head back to the mainland.

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2009 details for this program are subject to change as new developments and opportunities arise. If you would like more information or have specific questions please contact Angus Whyte, Summer Travel Program Director, directly by email  or phone at   603-478-3166.