Camp Rising Sun is a fully-funded program in upstate New York where young people can develop leadership skills, learn from each other, and build a strong community. By the time you return home, you’ll have a deeper understanding of yourself, the world, and how you can make a positive impact in your community.
The camp lasts for four weeks, with sessions available in both July and August.
THE ETHICAL LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
Join a small, international group of students to explore leadership, identity, justice, and taking action. The Ethical Leadership Experience (TELE) is an interactive virtual program where you can work on group projects with teens from around the world, share your passions, learn about others, and make lifelong friends.
CAMP RISING SUN: APPLICATION PROCESS
- Applications open on November 1st.
- Submit Part 1 of your application.
- You can attend an optional information session. Sign up online.
- Submit your complete application by the deadline for your region (check the deadline section).
- If selected, you’ll be invited for an interview by your regional selection committee between January 15th and March 1st.
- Prepare for your interview by thinking about your passions, why you want to attend Camp Rising Sun, and what you can contribute.
- Interviews will take place between January and March, depending on your selection committee.
- Admission decisions (accepted, waitlisted, or rejected) will be sent out in March, depending on where you are applying from.
- An information session for admitted students and their families will be held on April 6th.
- If accepted, you must confirm your place within a week.
- Candidates from the waitlist will start being accepted in April.
- Your selection committee will support you before and after the program.
CAMP RISING SUN: APPLICATION DEADLINES
Deadlines differ by region, so check yours below:
- December 15th: Ecuador (for 2024 admission)
- January 5th: Germany
- January 15th: Most regions, including Nigeria
- February 1st: Finland, Palestine*, Poland, Greenland, USA – Minnesota
- February 15th: Denmark, Greece, Hungary, Israel*, Norway, Sweden
- February 16th: Spain
- April 13th: Japan
Location: United States
Benefits
- Camp Rising Sun is a fully-funded program, so admitted campers do not pay any tuition.
- Limited financial assistance is available for travel costs to and from camp if needed.
Eligibility
- Open to applicants from all over the world.
- You must be at least 15 years old when the camp session starts, and not older than 17 by the end of the session.
- You must be available for the entire four-week in-person session.
- English language skills are required for understanding safety instructions and making the most of the camp experience.
- Children or grandchildren of previous Camp Rising Sun participants must apply as legacy campers.
- Accepted applicants must complete a medical evaluation and provide proof of vaccination, including full COVID-19 vaccination. Exemptions may be granted.
Application Process
To apply, submit the following materials by the deadline for your region:
1) Application forms:
- Part 1: Complete the 2024 CRS and TELE Application.
- Part 2: Complete the Camp Rising Sun Camper Application, which includes short answer questions and a mini-project. Part 2 can only be filled out after Part 1. You will need your LAJF Applicant ID, provided when you submit Part 1.
2) One reference:
- This should be an adult who knows you well (e.g., teacher, coach, club leader, etc.). They should not be a family member. After completing Part 1, share the reference link with them.
References are due by your region’s application deadline.
Kindly note: If you have any questions, please follow the instructions provided by the Camp Rising Sun representative in your area. If you’re unsure about any deadlines, you can also contact the Foundation staff at [email protected] for assistance.
