IMMERSION TRIPS
Participants will be involved in service and educational activities that engage them in the issues related to poverty and social justice. Participants and chaperones are expected to actively immerse themselves in all parts of the experience. Our hope is that this immersion experience will open the hearts and minds of participants, expand their view of the world, stimulate thought, prompt discussion, and lead to action.
Dates for week-long or abbreviated weekend experiences are available. If your group is small, consider partnering with another group. We can accommodate groups of 8-16 youth or adults (max group size 20). Youth groups require 1 leader per 5 youth. Groups can choose to use kitchen facilities for their own cooking or pay an additional amount for provided meals. Please call and we can discuss the specific needs of your group.
Dates for week-long or abbreviated weekend experiences are available. If your group is small, consider partnering with another group. We can accommodate groups of 8-16 youth or adults (max group size 20). Youth groups require 1 leader per 5 youth. Groups can choose to use kitchen facilities for their own cooking or pay an additional amount for provided meals. Please call and we can discuss the specific needs of your group.
Sample Themes
Each Urban Challenge experience can be individualized to the wants and needs of the participant group. Themes may involve a variety of community partner organizations and educational activities. We will collaborate with you to build the best program for you.
Sample Day Schedule
Sample Community Partners for Service Work
- Boland Elementary School
- Kensington Avenue Elementary School
- Forest Park Middle School
- SPARK After-School Program
- Loaves and Fishes Ministry
- Open Pantry
- Gardening The Community (GTC)
- New England Farm Workers Council
- Mobile Food Bank of Western MA
- Ronald McDonald House in Springfield
- Mason Wright Retirement Community
- Springfield Parks and Recreation
- Justice for Our Neighbors (JFON) Springfield Clinic
- Jewish Family Services
- Trinity United Methodist Church
Sample Educational Activities
- Attend an Orientation to Springfield
- Tour the Springfield History Museum
- Walk through the Neighborhood
- Explore the Springfield Museums Quadrangle
- Complete the Downtown Springfield Scavenger Hunt
- Tour the Pan African American Museum
- Take the Supermarket Challenge
- Learn about Urban Homesteading
- Visit Forest Park Farmers' Market