American DelegationAmericans delegates at Seeds of Peace have an incredible opportunity to learn about international conflicts and cultures first-hand, by living with and participating alongside their peers from the Middle East and South Asia. They are participants in every sense, from bunk life to activities to daily dialogue sessions. As "Seeds," they act as friends and supporters, helping to create links between campers from regions of conflict. |  [1] |
International DelegationsSeeds of Peace is currently focusing on two international conflict regions: the Middle East (Egyptian, Israeli, Jordanian, and Palestinian Seeds) and South Asia (Afghan, Indian, and Pakistani Seeds). Campers represent many religious backgrounds including: Christian, Druze, Hindu, Jain, Jewish, Muslim, and Sikh faiths. Since 1993, more than 4,300 teenagers have graduated from the Seeds of Peace program. | .jpg "Photo by Madeleine Pryor") [1] |
Maine SeedsAfter years of focusing exclusively on international crises, in 2000 Seeds of Peace developed a domestic initiative to address ethnic tension and outright violence erupting in its own backyard between Americans living in Maine. By discussing issues like race relations and education reform, the program seeks to help develop solutions to a range of challenges facing the state. |  [2] |
Delegation LeadersEach summer, 30-40 adult leaders, often teachers, are chosen by the governments of their respective countries to accompany Seeds to Camp. Once in Maine, they participate in their own adult dialogue program that parallels that of the Seeds. On their return home, they participate in further dialogue activities and are given the opportunity to continue working with their professional colleagues across borders. |  [3] |
Peer Support CampersEach summer, Seeds of Peace selects a group of 25-30 participants to return to Camp a second time as Peer Supports. Peer Supports then engage in an enhanced facilitation process, focused on leadership development, personal growth and dialogue. They explore how to successfully integrate their leadership skills into their lives and communities at home. These young leaders also serve as role models to first-time campers. |  |
Links:
[1] http://www.seedsofpeace.org/getinvolved/seed
[2] http://www.seedsofpeace.org/programs/usa/maine
[3] http://www.seedsofpeace.org/programs/camp/adultdelsummer