Sustainable Vocations Program for Youth
Dearest Friends of Quail Springs –
We are pleased to announce the third year of our renowned Sustainable Vocations program. This timely program prepares youth (ages 15 – 24) for diverse leadership roles that integrate sustainability into their lives and communities while providing a hands-on introduction to the expanding green job market. The 3-week residential program also represents a unique opportunity to live in a community setting that highlights the immense value of relationships and a collective spirit. Students graduate with the practical skills, inspiration and empowerment to enhance their employment opportunities and life path while helping to create a more sustainable future for us all.
At its core, Sustainable Vocations provides an introduction to the various tenets of environmental stewardship and sustainable living. While expansive in scope, specific topics include: ecological design, alternative energy systems, conservation and restoration, sustainable agriculture and food systems, natural building, greywater design and rainwater harvesting, ecological literacy and nature awareness. Additionally, students earn a recognized Permaculture Design Certification that creates additional, post-graduate opportunities. Permaculture represents an integrative design science for the creation of sustainable human settlements. Its holistic, systems-based principles can be applied to all settings, and permaculture represents a growing profession worldwide.
In addition to learning these hands-on skills, Sustainable Vocations also addresses the less tangible qualities that encompass leadership. Through sensory-based experiences, Council and collective sharing, we explore the nature of relationships and how they reside at the heart of sustainability. We passionately believe our relationships to each other and the earth are interconnected and, ultimately, a reflection of ourselves. In this light, the program’s purpose is to empower participants to be well-equipped, holistic leaders that fully honor nature and integrate sustainability into every component of their life. This program goal is reflected in the origin of the word vocation that refers to one’s calling.
Sustainable Vocations achieves its goals by offering a diversity of voices and perspectives. Led by Warren Brush, Executive Director and Co-founder of Quail Springs, the program’s staff is comprised of teachers and mentors with substantial experience in nature-based education for youth. In addition, Sustainable Vocations leverages the vast sustainability-based resources of our community. Prominent professionals serve as guest speakers and share their own experience as examples for students. We also visit local eco-businesses and projects to witness sustainability in action.
As a strengthening component to this year’s offering, we are also excited to announce a new partnership with The Ojai Foundation. For over 30 years, The Ojai Foundation has modeled living lightly on the earth and served as a living laboratory of sustainability. Integrating permaculture into its design, the 40-acres of semi-wilderness feature solar electrical systems, a living roof, and a diversity of natural building techniques. This inspiring setting will afford new learning opportunities due to the different landscape, and the partnership will also add a deeper program layer to Sustainable Vocations. Specifically, The Ojai Foundation is renowned for its pioneering work in the practice of Council that facilitates mindful communication, authentic connection and a deep respect for all relationships. This weaves beautifully into the existing framework of Sustainable Vocations and its inclusion will inevitably create a rich experience for this year’s participants.
Lastly, we would be grateful if you conveyed information about Sustainable Vocations to any green-minded/hearted youth that hopes to create meaningful change in their lives and communities.
With respect and love for the emerging generations,
The Quail Springs Family
SUSTAINABLE VOCATIONS
a Quail Springs’ program in partnership with The Ojai Foundation
When: July 10-30, 2011
Registering NOW !
Priority Application due date: June 6, 2011
applications accepted until July 1st or until program is filled
Download application here
Where: Hosted at The Ojai Foundation in Ojai, CA
Cost: $1,500-2,500, sliding scale tuition. Includes education, meals & accommodations (yurts and domes). Scholarships are available for low-income youth and families thanks to the generosity of our scholarship fund sponsors. Sustainable Vocations is committed to program accessibility, and we offer creative strategies for those in need of assistance. Diverse youth and families are passionately encouraged to inquire.
Learn more at www.sustainablevocations.org