These three programs challenge teenagers to broaden their sense of themselves either by embracing a new outdoor adventure or beginning to lead younger campers.  Participants work with mentors and build friendships in an outdoor setting while learning leadership skills that will empower them to make positive changes in themselves, their communities and the world. Participants set up camp in “Frank’s garden,” a beautiful outdoor setting alongside Adobe Creek.

Bay to Sea Backpacking Program   

• Entering 10th -12th Grades
  
  Explore the wilderness of the Santa Cruz Mountains on our Bay to Sea backpack trip, where you will hike from the San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean! This trip is an excellent introduction to backpacking. Those with or without backpacking experience are welcome.
  

  Campers will learn basic wilderness skills, such as reading a map and camping with minimum impact on the land. They will also build lasting and caring relationships with friends and the environment. Highlights of the trip include watching the sunset from the top of Black Mountain, rock climbing at Castle Rock, enjoying the natural waterfalls of Big Basin Redwoods, arriving at the Pacific Ocean with all of their new friends, and returning to Hidden Villa for one last night on the farm.

ACT I     

• Entering 11th Grade

This 3-week program is for young people who are interested in and ready for the responsibility of caring for children in a camp environment while passing on the Hidden Villa Legacy of social and environmental justice.

ACT I participants spend time learning some of the skills they will need as counselors, supporting the other camp programs, as well as enjoying some camp fun of their own. Topics covered in ACT I are communication techniques, conflict resolution, and some basic leadership skills to use with groups of campers. Trainees have the opportunity to practice some of these skills and work with experienced counselors in the Day Camp program by doing an internship for one week following this training. This program requires an additional application process.

ACT II  

• Entering 12th Grade

ACT II is a 4-week program for those who have completed ACT I. The program begins with two weeks of on-the-job training alongside experienced mentors and camp directors. By designing, implementing, and evaluating large group activities, participants gain proficiency in some of the biggest challenges a counselor might face. They also spend additional time developing age-appropriate activities, practicing public speaking as well as learning interview techniques and resume-building skills.

Program graduates who successfully complete the training will join fellow staff as paid counselors for the final two weeks of camp. This program requires an additional application and interview process.

Farm Academy  

• Entering 9th -12th grades

Farm Academy is an 8 week, two days per week program for youth interested in learning basic organic farming principles and exploring issues of food justice and sustainability.  Regular instruction in topics like soil fertility, irrigation techniques, and plant propagation is combined with field work and harvesting to create a hands-on learning experience.  Highlights include weekly potluck lunches with volunteers and staff, a visit to the Los Altos Farmer’s Market, and an introduction to the care of farm animals.  Farm academy graduates will gain a working knowledge of organic agriculture and local food systems while increasing skills in teamwork, communication, and physical stamina.  Participants will also be eligible to gain 80 hours of community service and a letter of recommendation.   This program requires an additional application process.

Program meets 9 am – 2 pm, Wednesdays and Thursdays, June 13 - August 2.