SLiPP
Our Service Learning in Public Policy (SLiPP) program is an advanced leadership development workshop for exceptional high school students eager to become catalysts for change.
You will spend the week at Freedoms Foundation’s expansive 75-acre campus, connecting with peers to immerse yourselves in service-learning and public policy through action-oriented experiences.
Live, Learn, Lead: Join Us for SLiPP
Our 2023 applications are now closed. Check back soon for our 2024 date!
SLiPP benefits extend beyond the program, as you gain new perspectives, refine your critical thinking skills, and amplify your actions and intentions as a citizen. Become more engaged and purposeful in pursuing your interest in areas of study such as law, government, politics, media and communications, and healthcare.
You can also obtain a competitive edge for the college admission process through advanced tutorials on application preparation, persuasive writing, leadership development, interview skills, and the opportunity to meet directly with college admission counselors.
Nomination Requirements
All interested students are invited to attend the program. Selections are based on the following criteria:
- Students entering 9th, 10th, or 11th grade who show leadership potential
- Motivated learners with strong academics
- Committed to service in their community
Want to Know More About SLiPP?
Make a selection below to find more information about Service Leadership in Public Policy.
What to Expect
- Meaningful service-learning opportunities
- Interactive and immersive experiences
- Public policy courses and discussions
- Leadership development and communications workshops
- The opportunity to connect with other motivated peers
- Presentations and meetings with college admissions officers
SLiPP Policy Tracks
Media Policy
Students participating in this track will see the influence and role of media in a democracy, how social media and policy interact, and its impact on citizens. Media is more than reading and writing. It is collaboration, research, and strategy.
During the day of service, SLiPP participants will travel to the MontCo Office of Communications and explore issues related to public policies and their impact on the community, democracy, and civic life.
Students gain insights that will help them develop policies designed to provide transparent content for the community—ideal for students interested in writing, journalism, communications, and social media.
Legal Policy
This concentration is designed for students who want to make a difference in evaluating and developing crime, law, and justice policy. Students will focus on critical legal issues facing society, such as the criminal justice system, immigration, community, policing, and veterans’ affairs.
Students work with an attorney at the PA Bar Association to learn about public policy issues in an urban setting. Experts in the field will meet with the students to help them understand their service-learning experience and develop a plan to affect positive social change—perfect for students interested in studying law and criminal justice.
Public Health Policy
Participants will focus on critical public health issues affecting our society, including vaccinations, mask mandates, lockdowns, and drugs. They will obtain first-hand experience from experts on the approach to public health matters and create effective constitutional health policies.
Past programs have included a site visit to Temple University Hospital and the Cradle to Grave program to learn about health issues dominating public consciousness—best for students interested in medicine, healthcare administration, and pharmacy.
The Competitive Edge for College
The college application process is not just competitive; it can be complex and intimidating. In addition to service-learning, which all college and university admissions officers look for when evaluating applicants, every student will be coached in the art of the college application. This preparation includes effective resume and personal essay writing, leadership development and interviewing skills, and the opportunity to meet with admissions counselors from top schools in the region.
Past participating schools have included Jefferson University, Villanova University, Temple University, Saint Joseph’s University, the Templeton Honors College at Eastern University, Drexel University, and Penn State University. You’ll learn how to create a compelling college application that genuinely stands out.
*Please note the above program details are subject to change.
What students are saying about our program
This experience taught me that even the smallest voice can make a difference, it taught me to better appreciate those who fought and died for our country, but most of all it rekindled my love for this country’s history and greatly inspired me to learn more so I may become an even better citizen.
– Rebecca
I am walking away from my experience as a more involved citizen who will use my rights and talents to promote a more perfect union.
– Jessica
This was truly a chance for me to grow as a leader, a citizen, and a person. I will forever treasure this experience. I will now go forward with great vigor and determination in my endeavors
– Hailey
I met so many wonderful people who have changed my life for the better. I learned many empowering things about my country that I never would have known. I feel infinitely more prepared to be an educated citizen and voter than I was prior to my trip.
– Emma
Please continue to support students. You are changing and shaping the future of America. I’m forever changed because of you.
– Abigail
FAQs
Cost
How much does it cost and what is included?
The cost of the program is $1,150 which includes lectures, room and board, all meals, site visits, program materials, and a program t-shirt. The program will allow students to explore policy in service of addressing issues in our society on the local, state, and national levels.
Is financial assistance available?
Service Learning in Public Policy are eligible for full scholarships provided by our partners. Please contact us for more information.
Campus
What are the sleeping arrangements?
Freedoms Foundation’s campus has three dormitory buildings. Rooms can sleep two, three, four, or five students, and all rooms have either a private bathroom or a jack & jill bathroom. Bedding, pillows, and towels are included.
Can the building accommodate my needs?
Though the campus was built in the 1960s and 70s, every building has a ramp entrance, and we have rooms that can accommodate various needs. Our tour buses have handicap and wheelchair entrances. Some historical sites may not be ADA accessible.
General
What should we pack?
We suggest the following: comfortable clothes; one pair of walking shoes; weather-appropriate gear; dress/formal outfit for presentation and banquet; charge cord for phone, and spending money.
We also ask that you consider your study track (legal, education, or public health) and think about what you might need to wear during service work in this field.
Will I have free time?
Your experience will be filled with exciting content balanced with free time with your peers. Our campus includes an indoor game room, outdoor basketball, and volleyball courts, and plenty of open space for pickup games.
Does FFVF have wifi?
We offer free wifi to our program attendees.
How much is physical activity involved?
There is a moderate amount of walking on our campus and at historic sites.
How much money should I bring?
Since this is an all-inclusive journey, there are only two real reasons for students to bring money: souvenirs and snacks. Everything else, including all meals, is included.
What if I miss games and practice?
This is a once-in-a-lifetime educational opportunity, and as such, we ask parents and students to weigh it next to other commitments like sports and work. If possible, it is always helpful when the school administration alerts coaches of impending class travel, giving them adequate time to adjust schedules.
What are your cancellation and refund policies?
Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge reserves the right to cancel a program due to weather emergency, low attendance, or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. Should Freedoms Foundation cancel a program, full refunds will be made to all clients by the method the client originally paid. Please allow up to 30 days for refunds to be processed.
We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment.
Cancellations made by the client must be received in writing and either emailed (education@ffvf.org), faxed 610.935.0522, or mail (PO Box 67, Valley Forge, PA 19481).
Cancellations made prior to 30 days before the start of a program will receive a full refund less the non-refundable deposit (variable by program) and any non-refundable expenses. Refunds will be issued in the same form payment was made. Please allow 30 days for refunds to be processed.
Cancellations made 30 days or less before the start of a program are subject to a Freedoms Foundation credit less the deposit and any non-refundable expenses (such as tickets or meals) which cannot be refunded, credited, or transferred.
Cancellations made less than 48 business hours before departure will receive no refund, credit, or transfer.
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