* DOCUMENTED COMMUNITY SERVICE HOURS AWARDED

2008 details for this program are subject to change as new developments and opportunities arise. Please check this page again for new updates; or contact Angus Whyte, Student Travel Program Coordinator, for the latest information.

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 of over 2,500 miles 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 2008 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 specifically for Windsor Mountain LIT Alumni interested in traveling to an exciting destination to share in cross-cultural experiences, community service learning, and leadership development. We are looking for students who are interested in working with younger children and are eager to share with them 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, experience new cultures, and try new foods.

Projected 2008 Itinerary:
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 10-23: 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 large game in the field. 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.

Day 24-28: 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 29: Fly home! Reflect on your experience and say goodbye to new friends as you head back to the mainland.

Program Details:
Dates: 7/2-7/30
Tuition: $4,795
Group Size: 16 students and 2 professional leaders
Student Grade Level: Finishing Grades 9-12
Starting/Ending Point: Kona / Kahaluii
Accommodations: Beach camping and community buildings
Major Equipment Needs: Multi-sport outdoor shoes, day pack
Cell phones and personal listening devices (iPods, discmans, etc) are not welcome. Students will be able to call home three times: once upon arrival to the host country, once ten days into the program and once two days before the program's end date.

Tuition for this program is due in full by April 1, 2008. Travel expenses to and from the starting and ending points are the responsibility of the participant and are not included in the tuition. Windsor Mountain's travel consultant can help you in securing the most reasonable plan for coordinating your travel itinerary.

COMMUNITY SERVICE HOURS AWARDED

PLEASE NOTE: Program details are subject to change.