In 2016, the nationally renowned Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site in Indianapolis, Ind., will offer the location for the Future Presidents of America Youth Leadership Camp. This new initiative, started in 2015, is an innovative and engaging youth leadership camp with a mission of developing individual confidence, civic literacy and good citizenship to reveal the exceptional qualities of character that make for great presidents and great leaders. The camp will take place Monday, June 27 through Friday, July 1 (9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily) in Indianapolis and is open to young leaders ages 12-16.
Behind the Scenes
Using the American presidency as a lens of understanding, participants will explore a panoramic view of issues relevant to all leaders across the ages. From the country’s heroic 18th century origins to the 23rd president and into the 21st century, participants will engage in an immersive history experience that includes special interactive sessions and up-close experiences with historic artifacts.
Special opportunities include the chance to meet and engage with a diverse group of business and community leaders, joining the federal court’s summer naturalization ceremony and a visit to the president’s tomb at historic Crown Hill Cemetery, one of the largest and most celebrated private cemeteries in the country.
Young leaders will also have the opportunity to share their voices in lively debates and thought provoking discussions on what it means to be a good citizen while simultaneously investigating the challenges and opportunities facing every president – yesterday, today and tomorrow.
“Our Future Presidents of America youth leadership camp is an innovative and impactful program, giving young leaders an unparalleled perspective on our country’s leadership,” said Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site President and CEO Charles Hyde. “Being able to experience it at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site will be especially relevant and powerful as we move further into this historic presidential election year. It’s a unique opportunity in a nationally significant place.”
Programming
Each day’s programming and field trips focus on a set of themes that explore rich history through compelling and insightful stories of success in the face of challenge and adversity:
MONDAY (June 27): Confid-ence & Qualifications; TUESDAY (June 28): Duty, Honor & Sacrifice; WEDNESDAY (June 29): Poise & Policy; THURSDAY (June 30): Communitas & Civitas; and FRIDAY (July 1): E Pluribus Unum.
Application Information
Space is limited to 20 children (ages 12-16). The cost per student is $400 for non-members and $375 for members. All applications are considered on an individual basis through May 31, 2016, or until the program reaches capacity. To access and download the application and instructions for submission, visit http://www.bhpsite.org/events/future-presidents-of-america.
