Global Leadership Adventures 2014 Catalog by Terra Education

2014 CATALOG

â&#x201E;˘ Download program schedule at Life-Changing Journeys for High School Students experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 1

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dventure

Beachside Service Adventure L

Children of the Maya

Beachside Service Adventure

Beachside Service Adventure L

Spanish, Service & Maya Culture

Building a Sustainable World Beachside Service Adventure Beachside Service Adventure

Beachside Service Adventure Children of the Maya

F =

Spanish, Service & Maya Culture

Children of the Maya

F Buildin Beachside Service

Children of the Maya

Spanish,

Children of the Maya

L =

p.32

p.36

p.38

p.44

p.54

p.60

p.16

p.20

p.24

p.26

p.30

p.32

p.36

Fiji

Galapagos

Peru

Costa Rica

D o m i n i c a n R e p.

Guatemala

Ghana

Ta n z a n i a

Bali

Thailand

In d i a

Fiji

Galapagos

S O U T H A MER I C A

C EN T R A L A MER I C A & C A R IB B E A N

A FR I C A

A S I A & PAC IFI C

SOUTH

30째

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Our Mission To inspire the next generation to realize their potential to transform the world and their role in it.

Our Values Our Integrity is unspoken. It is the unfailing framework from which we build every program, human relationship, and bridge into a community. Respect is inherent in all of our interactions among students, staff, and all of the members whose communities we serve. Respect means accepting and celebrating differences. Respect means considering all points of view, always. Cooperation is key to our accomplishments. We are a traveling community, helping to serve other communities. We work together, learn from one another, and build valuable friendships in the process. Compassion is what drives our service, and that compassion extends to students, parents, and host communities. Our care for people extends to everything we do. We are invested in the Personal Growth and development of all of our students and staff. We foster an environment for students to safely explore, experience, and self-discover. Optimism is at our core. We believe that anything is possible, and that every person is capable of driving and adopting positive change in the world.

Our History Although we are an American organization, our roots are global. In 2003, the African Leadership Academy (“ALA”) began as a dream to develop future leaders of Africa, regardless of income. The idea sprung from the visionary mind of Fred Swaniker, a Stanford MBA who is originally from Ghana. Growing up and working all over Africa, he realized that the greatest obstacle to African development was a lack of ethical leadership. In an effort to combat this problem, he began developing a pan-African high school which would offer a world-class education and promote ethical and principled leadership among top high school students from all over the continent. As a way to develop the curriculum and bring together students from Africa and around the world, Fred created the ALA Summer Academy. After two years, believing in the potential of every young adult to be a global leader and make an impact, he changed the name of the organization to Global Leadership Adventures and brought on Andrew Motiwalla, a 15 year veteran in international education and Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, to lead the organization and replicate the successful model around the world. With this significant expansion came a greater opportunity to serve and to apply core values of integrity, respect, cooperation, compassion, growth, and optimism to many more communities around the globe. Global Leadership Adventures is a division of Terra Education (“Terra”), a leader in the field of international service-learning. Terra also operates Discover Corps, one to two week volunteer vacations for adults and families, in collaboration with the National Peace Corps Association. For more information, please visit www.discovercorps.com.

Innovation is what makes us stand out in international education. Open to new ideas and always striving to work better and smarter to serve our communities, students, and parents.

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Global Leadership Adventures:

A Life-Changing Experience

On Developing Leadership Skills Mackenzie K. Highland Hall High School Hometown: Los Angeles, CA

TOCAR FOTO

The most striking thing I learned was how to lead effectively. On my program, each GLA student was required to lead the entire group for one whole day. During the program, I realized that a leader must have deep convictions of his goals, be clear about what needs to be achieved, find the strength of each individual, and capitalize on that strength.

On Opening My Eyes to New Possibilities Evert D. Willem de Zwijger High School Hometown: Bussum, The Netherlands

On Unlocking My Passions Elyssa-June S. Bermuda High School for Girls Hometown: Bermuda

GLA has inspired me to see the world in a more loving and open way. It introduced me to new cultures and people that have impressed me in the most wonderful ways. I experienced the raw soul and the real people of Tanzania, not the tourist or city life. I learned to appreciate the details in life more and to really pursue the things I want in life.

My GLA experience in Ghana was the most memorable three weeks of my life so far, and I continue to tell my friends and family that I wish I could have remained there for the entire summer. Volunteering at the Keta hospital allowed me to learn hands-on about healthcare management. I was able to see how healthcare was provided to patients in a rural context. The few hours I spent at the hospital reconfirmed my interest in healthcare, and I’ve decided to study international health, humanitarian relief and development in university.

On Learning About My Role in the World Kelly V. Currently Attending: Stanford University Lewis Palmer High School Hometown: Monument, CO

GLA was an eye-opening experience, both in seeing a new part of the world and gaining perspective on issues that cross societal boundaries. The people I met at GLA – the children, the grassroots leaders, and our fantastic program director and mentors – have hugely inspired me to continue to act as a global citizen throughout college and my future career.

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agree

“When I look back on my GLA experience, I consider it to have been life changing.” Based on a survey of alumni 3 years post-program.

On Uncovering New Career Options Rishi T. Currently Attending: UC Berkeley Saratoga High School Hometown: Saratoga, CA

GLA instilled in me a passion for international relations because it gave me the unique opportunity to look beyond words, photographs, and statistics and truly experience firsthand the workings of another culture. The community service and immersion into the village really pushed me to embrace the Spanish language and mold a global leader out of me. In college, I’m majoring in International Relations and Economics and hope to pursue a career in international corporate law.

On Helping Me Appreciate What I Have Valerie L. Walnut High School Hometown: Yorba Linda, CA

I learned to appreciate the things I once took for granted. GLA opened my eyes as to what really matters. Seeing the poverty-stricken families struck a chord in me because they worry about problems that don’t even come up in the minds of American teenagers. The question of how am I going to feed my children or where am I going to sleep tonight is always asked by families in Asia which is why I came to realize many of my problems are insignificant compared to those of these families.

On Improving the Lives of Those Less Fortunate Kevin and Sara V. Ocean City High School Hometown: Ocean City, NJ GLA Repeat Alumni

Each summer that we did GLA, our experiences were some of the most memorable times in our lives. Guatemala, the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica were all awesome. We did not know anyone else going into the programs, but we ended up making so many great friendships. The trips themselves are great, but it is so gratifying to be able to give back to countries in need throughout all of our volunteer work.

On Influencing College Applications Shaomin C. Currently Attending: Harvard University Choate Rosemary Hall High School Hometown: Singapore

What GLA did for me is show me the world in its most raw form and at the very same time, give me hope that I might play a role in giving these communities a brighter future. In the face of despair, I saw the smiles of children. It showed me poverty at a level that was very extreme and I had not seen that before. My reflections on what I experienced and learnt during GLA played a key part in two of my college essays and I talked about it extensively in the interviews.

+ 1 858 771 0645 5 www.experienceGLA.com

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The

GLA

Based on a survey of all 2013 GLA students.

difference

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Connect

Discover

Engage

Serve alongside communities. Develop meaningful relationships with local people and students from around the world. Meet with leaders and organizations making a difference in their communities. Learn effective intercultural communication skills as you promote cooperation and team building.

Immerse yourself in a culture different from your own. Engage in cultural workshops and adventurous excursions. Gain new perspective on global challenges through service projects. Become more open-minded to differing opinions and ways of doing things. Challenge your assumptions about yourself, your country, and the world.

Set goals and create action plans to achieve them. Organize available resources and coordinate with the community to make a difference. Work as a team and strategically plan ahead. Debate tough questions with mentors and local partners: Where do we fit in? How do we connect our talents to those in need? How do we affect change at home and abroad?

agree “I gained a personal connection to a culture different from my own.”

agree “I gained deeper understanding of challenges the world faces.”

agree “I am inspired to become more involved in global issues.”

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the service

learning

adventure ™

Flagship

transformation & Leadership is at the core of every GLA program. Through connection, discovery, and engagement, we empower students to pursue new passions, to set higher academic and personal goals, and to begin affecting change within themselves, their communities, and the world. The GLA impact does not end upon a students’ return from a program. GLA alumni in college and those who have graduated from college reminisce about their GLA experience as a pivotal moment in their life.

point 5safety

the GLA difference

leadership

Language

system ™

Language

Flagship

full-service

parent support Flagship

Language

expert staff

Flagship

Language

home base lodging

and this is how we do it Flagship

Language

+ 1 858 771 0645 7 www.experienceGLA.com

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the

service

learning™ adventure

GLA crafts life-changing Service Learning Adventures. Each adventure is unique and purposeful, preparing students from across the world to be extraordinary leaders both abroad and in their home communities. We empower our students through a dynamic, integrated experience that combines three key components: Community Service, Hands-On Learning, and Adventure. These components remain at the core of every program, because we’ve seen them transform students year after year.

the GLA difference

Hands-On Learning The world is our classroom, and our students are also our best teachers. We learn as a community, through immersion and exchange, as we come to know others’ arts, cultures, and histories in ways that no textbook alone could ever convey. We also learn about ourselves and our roles in the world, discovering new passions and leadership skills. GLA students emerge as bold actors for change, building sustainable communities across borders. They also emerge with a deeper understanding of today’s global challenges such as healthcare, economic and political issues, children’s rights, animal protection, the environment, indigenous and women’s rights, and poverty, among many others.

Community Service It is at the heart of each of our programs. Side by side with our local partners, our students extend a hand and learn about the impact of their service. Remote issues and concepts become people with faces, names, and needs. Some walls are torn down while others are rebuilt again, together, as classrooms and community projects. GLA students develop deep and lasting bonds with our partners and leave behind real, positive change.

Adventure

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That’s the “A” in G-L-A, and no GLA program would be complete without it! Each host community boasts its own historical and cultural treasures, which are exceptional opportunities for you to learn, grow and challenge yourself in ways that you might never expect. Imagine exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, zip lining through the pristine rainforests of Costa Rica, photographing lions and zebras on a safari in Tanzania, or just trying a new food and making a new friend a world away. Which adventure is up to you.

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5 safety system point

Safety is our #1 priority. That’s why we have implemented the GLA Five-Point Safety System ™ to help ensure students’ safety and health and your peace of mind:

Safe and Secure Lodging Each program has a GLA Home Base, a place for GLA students. It’s their home away from home – to relax, enjoy meals with GLA staff and other volunteers, and reflect. Students room together in gender-segregated group lodging.

GLA policy is for no student to ever be by themselves at any point in time. Students should be either with staff members, in groups, or assigned to a buddy. Our student-staff ratio is 6:1.

Healthy Meals and Pure Water Meals are prepared fresh daily, with a healthy mix of fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and bread. Students may sample local cuisine, but Western-style and vegetarian options are also available. Students also have access to unlimited safe drinking water.

the GLA difference

Caring Supervision

Expert Local Knowledge

Language

Our in-country staff members have intimate knowledge of the host community. They have established relationships with medical professionals in the area, as well as local organizations where students do community service.

Safe and Comfortable Transportation Students are transported in GLA-approved vehicles by experienced, licensed drivers. At time of arrival, GLA staff will be at the airport to meet and greet students. If the plane is delayed, they will wait until students arrive. At airport drop-off, GLA staff will help direct students on how to check in and find their flight.

+ 1 858 771 0645 9 www.experienceGLA.com

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full-service

parent support

TESTIMONIALS

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At GLA, we are your tireless mission control. In other words, we’re with you every step of the way. We understand it can be challenging to leave your teen to the care of others, so we take equal care in providing superior support for every parent, before, during, and post-program:

Full Pre-Departure Support

Once you’ve registered for one of our programs, the GLA Team is at your disposal to provide full support for all your preparations:

Language

ship the GLA difference

• Where and how to book a flight • Flight recommendations and suggested group itineraries so that students can travel with other students • Understanding the passport and visa application process, step-by-step • Full access to the online GLA Travel Portal – network with other parents and students on your program and have all pre-departure info at your fingertips

Sam H., Winnetka, IL “We are so thankful to find a program that is so safe as that was my biggest concern when she first thought of going. I would rate my experience with GLA a 10 out of 10! My daughter participated in the Ghana and Guatemala programs and loved both of them. She hopes to go to Galapagos next year! Thank you all so much for working so hard to provide such a great experience for the kids.”

In-Country Support and Updates

During the program, we are your direct link, 24 hours a day: • Offering a 24-hour Emergency Hotline • Requiring all students to call home upon arrival in the country • Making you aware of any emergencies, changes, or updates • Relaying urgent parental messages to students and student messages to parents, via in-country staff • Providing evacuation and secondary medical insurance for all students • Linking you to periodically-updated student blogs, with pictures and accounts of students’ experiences, so parents can share in the journey (available for most programs)

Post-Program Follow-Up

After the program, our staff follows up with every parent to: • Get your feedback on the program • Get your feedback on the level of parent support • Ensure we’ve provided the best possible service to you and your family

Ruth C., Los Angeles, CA “Once Christine was set to go, I started feeling a little insecure. I contacted GLA by email, and received an immediate and detailed response, alleviating my concerns. I was especially happy to be able to follow along with the trip events on the GLA blog, enabling me to have a visual of how happy my daughter appeared... and she was truly, truly happy. When Christine came home and shared some of her experiences and stories with me, I had a question for GLA administration. My concerns were dealt with in a professional and courteous manner. I feel that GLA has a great deal of integrity in dealing with families. The concern for student’s well-being was consistent from pre-departure right through to the safe return home, and the weeks that followed.”

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expert staff In the GLA experience, bright students connect with accomplished mentors. This is because our staff are not chaperones; they’re experts. By design, each GLA program is co-managed by both a local and international Director. The combination is key: each local director has intimate knowledge of the host community and culture; each international director comes from the U.S. or U.K. and has in-depth professional experience working with youth. All of our staff hold college degrees – most with graduate degrees. Many also return year after year to work with GLA. Explore some of our expert staffs’ backgrounds below:

Flagship

Language

More of our staff bios can be found on page 64 and 65.

the GLA difference

Anne-Claire Benoit

Orlando Arizandieta

Esther Simba

Dave Addison

Ryan Feinstein

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR

LOCAL DIRECTOR

INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR

Anne-Claire was raised in California and studied French and Political Science at Simmons College. She served in Niger, Africa in the Peace Corps and also worked as a youth facilitator in California. She then got her masters degree in International Development at the Monterey Institute of International Studies. AnneClaire has traveled to over 30 countries in Europe, Asia and Africa. She is excited to share her passion for travel, culture and service with GLA students.

Orlando studied Business Administration and is trilingual in Spanish, English, and Norwegian. In addition to having over a decade of experience facilitating service-learning programs for youth, Orlando has also worked for the Guatemalan government and with high school students and Returned Peace Corps Volunteers. He has worked to eradicate poverty, produce green energy, and promote multiculturalism and ethnic diversity. He finds sharing his culture and language with GLA students very rewarding.

Country Director for GLA programs in Tanzania, Esther has a wealth of experience in education and volunteer programming. She has taught primary school and secondary school, trained teachers at multiple teacher training colleges, consulted for the US Peace Corps, and was the founding Country Director for Cross-Cultural Solutions Tanzania. She also co-facilitates international women’s empowerment workshops. Esther has partnered with local and international organizations working to be the change.

Dave holds a BA from the University of the State of New York in International Relations and a PhD in Global Sustainability. Prior to working with GLA, Dave was a US Navy Seal and a financial analyst on Wall Street. Having raised three children, he now lives in the Dominican Republic working on environmental sustainability and humanitarian projects with high school students and Returned Peace Corps Volunteers. Dave loves sharing his knowledge with students and inspiring them to build a healthy, habitable planet for future generations.

Ryan is the founder of the Global Youth in Action Programs and was Project Director for the third international “Awakening Global Action” gathering in Bali. He has helped design and host all three “Quest for Global Healing” conferences with more than 1200 people from around the world. When not in Bali, Ryan runs leadership development programs for young people. Most recently, he was in charge of leadership programs at the Jewish Community Center in La Jolla, CA. Ryan received his BA in International Studies from UC San Diego.

+ 1 858 771 0645 11 www.experienceGLA.com

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Program Types Throughout the catalog, you’ll notice certain programs are marked “Flagship” or “Language”. Students have given these programs the highest ratings, and this is why:

home base

Flagship

the GLA difference

lodging

Our 21-day Flagship programs provide the ideal amount of time to satisfy every dimension of the GLA experience. Although many of the same objectives can be achieved on shorter programs, students and parents report that three weeks is the optimal time to develop lifelong friendships with local people and fellow students, to make a greater impact on the community, to fully immerse themselves in a culture, and to explore different facets of the host country.

The GLA Home Base is one of many features that sets us apart from the rest. It is each GLA student’s homeaway-from-home. Home Base is a space reserved for GLA students and staff, providing safety and security within a controlled, supervised environment.

Language

Whether it’s a spacious house, a floor of a building, or a hostel we’ve taken over, the GLA Home Base is where students can relax, unwind, share stories, and build lifelong friendships. Here students experience a group-living dynamic, creating a sense of community, support and reflection throughout their experience. Many GLA students find that it also helps prepare them for the experience of living at college.

Language

Flagship

Language Interact on a deeper level, and take your language skills to the next level. Designed for high school students, our GLA Experiential Language Curriculum ™ seamlessly integrates language into many aspects of the program, including community service and cultural activities. Our teachers use classroom time to prepare students to speak the language as they interact with local people. We currently offer Language programs in Spanish in Peru, Costa Rica, and Guatemala.

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Read more at blog.experienceGLA.com

Stories of Transformation

Lauren Sundstrom

“

Hometown: Newburyport, MA Education: Bowdoin College, Class of ‘17 Traveled with GLA to: Africa Interests and Passions: • Competed on a competitive cheerleading team but “can’t hit a ball to save her life” • Loves poetry and went to every Poetry Team competition at her school • Self-proclaimed shopaholic who holds a part-time job at a clothing boutique

Only two years ago, 18 year-old Lauren Sundstrom was a teenager without direction, spending much of her time distracted by a circle of friends that her parents worried was not a great influence on her. Lauren’s mother, Lisa, was especially concerned. “Lauren was in trouble. She just wasn’t being herself, and didn’t seem happy or confident.” They knew that they wanted to help their daughter, so they encouraged her to find her passion. In addition, they agreed to fund her activities once she’d found it. “We were thrilled when Lauren told us that she wanted to see the world and volunteer in a new place,” says Lisa. “My husband and I were both raised abroad, and we know how important it is to have a global perspective and really understand how fortunate we are.” After much research and careful consideration, Lauren found herself enrolled in the “Children of Africa” Program in Ghana, choosing this program because she loves working with youth. She spent her days and nights immersed in Ghana’s culture and with its children, seeing families in unimaginable poverty and desperately wanting to help. Lauren also saw the difference in the quality of life for Ghanaians who were afforded the opportunity of a formal

education. She returned home with a new outlook on her privileged life and with a sense of responsibility to help the children and families of Ghana who had taught her so much while she was abroad. That summer, Lauren started Clothes for Hope, a nonprofit organization that raises money for educational assistance and materials for children and families in need, both locally and in Ghana. Lauren collects donations of new and gently used clothing and hosts huge sales to sell the goods at discounted rates, and has raised nearly $100,000 to date. With the money raised, Lauren has built a teacher’s meeting room, a library, and a middle school in Ho, one of the towns she visited with GLA. She’s also donated 280 school uniforms and hundreds of pounds of school supplies for children in Ghana. Lisa couldn’t believe the incredible change she saw in Lauren. “As a parent, there is nothing more gratifying than witnessing your child being truly happy and doing what they love. Lauren traveled with GLA to Ghana, and when she returned she was a different person. She carries the people of Ghana in her heart, and her involvement has been such a blessing to our whole family.”

+ 1 858 771 0645 13 www.experienceGLA.com

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Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 15

+ 1 858 771 0645 15 www.experienceGLA.com

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GHANA

Children of Africa

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™

ΩΩ Volunteer at a village primary school Ω Confront history at a slave fort Ω Absorb social issues facing women and children Ω Hike to the tallest waterfall in West Africa Ω Learn traditional African dance and percussion 08/11/13 15:10

GHANA

Its villages will charm you, its scenery amaze you, and its children welcome you. Ghana is often called the heart and soul of West Africa because of its welcoming, passionate, and peaceful people. It is a particularly important place, because it is to where many African-Americans can trace their roots. Besides volunteering to help local children, you will immerse yourself in the vibrant African culture, visit a historic slave fort, and hike through lush tropical forests and large natural reserves home to monkeys and hundreds of species of birds and butterflies.

Community Service Service is an integral part of this program. You will volunteer in orphanages and schools working with Ghanaian children. Many children do not have access to education, and there is a lack of adequate facilities, books and qualified teachers. You may find yourself teaching a group of kids in a classroom with no electricity or even under a tree with only a chalkboard and your own skills to share. Other service activities include making bricks that will be used in the construction of classrooms or engaging youth in a soccer tournament.

Hands-On Learning 21-DAY FLAGSHIP PROGRAM July 3 – July 23 July 26 – August 15 Tuition: $4,699 Service hours: 60 14-DAY PROGRAM June 17 – June 30 Tuition: $3,199 Service hours: 40

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Through a variety of cultural activities, you will become immersed in this rich African culture. We’ll participate in workshops such as cloth dying, drumming, and Ewe language crash courses. Additionally, we will meet with inspirational grassroots leaders to learn how they are addressing the pressing issues facing Ghanaian women and children today.

Lodging

You will have the unique opportunity to meet with local tribe members and chiefs to engage in a deep analysis of traditional religion, the social construction of gender, the tribal system of chiefs, as well as the distinctive history of Ghana. Originally one of the hubs of the Atlantic slave trade, Ghana today has become a peaceful, democratic state.

The Home Base is in southeast Ghana, approximately 3.5 hours from Accra, the capital city. It is located along the coast, in a rural village setting. Accommodations are basic, but clean and safe. There are shared bathrooms and cold-water showers. All students sleep in gendersegregated rooms with roommates.

Adventure

Link this program to »

Experience and learn about life in a fishing village by traveling to a local island via canoe. TANZANIA Heart & Soul of Africa, pg. 20 Start to understand how traditional religion can impact the everyday lives of people in this June 17 – July 21 community. Explore outdoor markets with unique fruits and vegetables, beautiful cloth, and July 3 – August 13 handmade crafts. Connect with history at the Keta Slave Fort, one of 45 slave forts built by the Europeans along the West African coast during the 1500’s. On the 21-day Flagship program, spend a weekend travelling deep into the Volta Region where we’ll hike to one of the tallest waterfalls in West Africa and visit a monkey sanctuary. Download program schedule at + 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com experienceGLA.com/info

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GHANA

Building Healthy Villages

™

ΩΩGain exposure to modern and traditional medicine in Africa Ω Examine public health issues facing the community Ω 18 Improve local health and living conditions through volunteer initiatives Ω Confront history at a 16th century slave fort Ω Journey down the Volta River Ω Explore African dance and percussion Ω Live just steps away from the beach 2014catalog.indd 18

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GHANA

Apply your interests in health and humanitarianism on a life-changing African adventure. Though hard to fathom, four-fifths of Africa’s population still lives on less than $1 a day. Improving health conditions is central to solving the problem of persistent poverty. This program is an unparalleled primer for those interested in the medical and public health fields. It will expose you to the unique spectrum of medicine in the developing world as well as the rich textures of African culture and landscape. You will visit hospitals, clinics and traditional healers. In addition to volunteering, you will visit a slave fort, travel down the Volta River, and discover African dance, music and visual arts.

Community Service This is a rare opportunity to affect the health of a rural community. One widespread challenge facing African communities is a lack of adequate sanitizing facilities as well as nutritious food for children. Our service project combats both of these problems. We’ll construct eco compost toilets for village families which will improve health conditions, as well as generate high quality fertilizer to increase crop yields.

Hands-On Learning

14-DAY PROGRAM June 17 – June 30 July 3 – July 16 July 19 – August 1 Tuition: $3,199 Service hours: 40

You’ll have the opportunity to learn about public health not only through your service work in the villages, but also through conversations with local chiefs, assemblymen, and grassroots leaders. We’ll visit local hospitals and clinics as well as traditional healers. Additionally, this program will immerse you in this rich African culture. We’ll participate in workshops such as drumming, Ewe language lessons, and coconut tree climbing.

Adventure You’ll live steps away from the beach, where most mornings you’ll wake up to the sights and sounds of fishermen. In the evening, you can even join them pulling in the nets! You’ll connect with history at the Keta Slave Fort, one of the 45 slave forts built along the West African Coast during the 1500s. You’ll explore outdoor markets and discover fruits, vegetables, clothes, and handmade crafts found nowhere else on Earth. You’ll sing and drum as you cruise down the Volta River to the sea, experience the mangroves, and celebrate your accomplishments with a bonfire on the beach.

Lodging The GLA Home Base is a cluster of simple beachfront chalets located near a fishing village on the southern coast of Ghana. It is approximately 2.5 hours from Accra, the capital city. Accommodations are basic, but clean and safe. Students will be staying in gender-segregated rooms with roommates. Each room has a fan. Students will be using shared bathrooms with cold water showers. In the afternoons, you can cool down after a day of work in a large salt water lagoon in front of the Home Base. This GLA Home Base exclusively houses our students and staff.

Link this program to » TANZANIA Heart & Soul of Africa, Pg. 20 June 17 – July 21 July 3 – August 6

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 19

+ 1 858 771 0645 19 www.experienceGLA.com

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TANZANIA

Heart & Soul of Africa

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ΩΩVolunteer at a village primary school Ω Learn basic phrases in Swahili Ω See zebras, elephants, lions, rhinos and more on an authentic African safari Ω Hike to a waterfall on the side of Mount Kilimanjaro Ω Spend a weekend among the Maasai to learn about their culture Ω Learn African dance, percussion, bead making and even how to throw a spear 08/11/13 15:10

TANZANIA

Explore the myth and magic of the real Africa. Go beyond the movies and discover the real Africa: welcoming people, zebras, giraffes, lions, percussion, Maasai warriors and the astounding Mount Kilimanjaro. Work side-by-side with local leaders in orphanages and village schools. During the weekends, experience a real African wildlife safari and live among the Maasai people and learn first-hand about their unique culture.

Community Service You will work at the local village schools and orphanages improving facilities by painting and building playgrounds and classrooms for the children. In addition, we will teach English and math by playing educational games and sports.

Hands-On Learning

21-DAY FLAGSHIP PROGRAM June 23 – July 13 July 1 – July 21 July 17 – August 6 July 24 – August 13 Tuition: $4,799 Service hours: 45 14-DAY PROGRAM June 14 – June 27 August 9 – August 22 Tuition: $3,199 Service hours: 30

ong ear

You will learn about Tanzania’s rich culture. Specifically, you will experience the traditions of the Chagga people who live around Mount Kilimanjaro, including visits to their coffee farms and banana plantations. You will also learn about and meet members of the Maasai nomadic tribes who follow their livestock and do not adhere to national borders. Although English is widely spoken, you will also learn to speak some Swahili. You will hear from guest speakers about social issues facing the community, such as the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the history of East Africa and even participate in art workshops such as batik and traditional music.

Lodging

Adventure In addition to spending a day hiking around the base of Mount Kilimanjaro to a stunning waterfall, you will also visit some of the world’s most spectacular safari parks. During the first weekend you will visit two of the world’s most famous wildlife reserves: Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park. During the weekend safari, you will have the opportunity to get up close to zebras, lions, leopards, elephants, wildebeest, rhinos, and many other species in their natural habitat. For those on our 21-day Flagship Program, the second weekend will take us to a Maasai village where we’ll live in a traditional community and learn about their unique nomadic culture. Here, we’ll learn to throw spears, make bead jewelry and identify medicinal plants in the wild.

GLA has two Home Bases; both are located 45 minutes from Kilimanjaro airport. They are both typical walled African compounds located in villages outside of Arusha and Moshi. Each room has bunk beds and a private bathroom with western toilets.

Link this program to » GHANA Children of Africa, Pg. 16 June 17 – July 21 July 3 – August 13 Building Healthy Villages, Pg. 18 June 17 – July 21 July 3 – August 6

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 21

+ 1 858 771 0645 21 www.experienceGLA.com

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Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 23

+ 1 858 771 0645 23 www.experienceGLA.com

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BALI

Land of Discovery ™

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ΩHelp Ω children unlock brilliant opportunities Ω Get scuba certified and discover what lies below the turqouise blue waters of the Pacific Ω Delve into ancient temples and Balinese ceremonies Ω Surf the world-class waves of Southern Bali Ω Tackle the rush of the Ayung River on a whitewater raft 08/11/13 15:11

Discover unexpected treasures as you scuba dive over a shipwreck. Visit the Elephant Safari Park and feed and ride elephants. BALI

Journey to the island of Bali - influence the youth of an indigenous culture, explore the many wonders of the island, and get your PADI scuba certification. Bali, also known as the Island of the Gods, is one of the most picturesque destinations on earth. Despite its famed fusion of spirituality and ecology, Bali has significant educational gaps waiting to be filled. You’ll volunteer in a local school, teaching English and inspiring children in the community. In the afternoons, you might venture off to the waters of a sacred hot spring, hike to a waterfall, or hop on a spider boat to catch the sunset.

Community Service Speaking English unlocks new opportunities for Balinese youth and allows them to discover new horizons. Lead an English class in a public elementary school, just minutes away from the beach on the northern coast of Bali. Create unforgettable bonds with your students as you share crucial language skills. Through service, you’ll interact with the local people and get a rare peek into the culture and daily life of the Balinese.

Hands-On Learning 21-DAY FLAGSHIP PROGRAM June 18 – July 8 July 11 – July 31 Tuition: $4,849* Service Hours: 36 * Tuition includes PADI Scuba Dive Certification

Bali

Surrounded by jaw-dropping views, green rice paddies and holy temples, you will immerse yourself in the culture of sustainable, communal living. You will attend workshops to learn the Balinese Gamelan drum and Legong dance, participate in an active community dialogue with the Prince of Ubud and play traditional games with local students your age. Every aspect of the program plunges you into the center of this community and culture in order to uncover your own potential.

Adventure Every day is an epic adventure in Bali, and you’ll spend the weekends and afternoons charting the island and all its breathtaking corners. You’ll quickly understand culture is based on living harmoniously with the natural world. You’ll get PADI scuba certified and dive through the coral reef, whitewater raft through luscious rice paddies, explore remote temple sites, visit an elephant safari park, and ride shoulder to shoulder with some of the world’s best surfers in Bali’s southern waters.

Lodging Your home in Bali will be Lovina, a quiet coastal town on the Balinese coast. Seven traditional villages merge to form Lovina, and the coast is fringed by black sand beaches. This fascinating village has all the comforts of home, but has the distinct essence that draws people from all over the world to witness its serenity, beauty, and power.

Link this program to » THAILAND Cultural Kaleidoscope, Pg. 26 July 11 – August 14

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 25

+ 1 858 771 0645 25 www.experienceGLA.com

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THAILAND

Cultural Kaleidoscope™

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ΩVolunteer Ω at an orphanage Ω Experience Thai food, arts, & music Ω Bathe elephants in a river and take them for a ride through the jungle Ω Zip-line through the rainforest Ω Trek to visit distant hill tribes 08/11/13 15:11

Find yourself in a potpourri of saffron robes, green mountains, golden temples, & technicolor markets. Journey to enchanting Thailand – a kingdom rich in culture, arts & tradition. In this program, we’ll volunteer at a local orphanage and also trek to visit hill tribe communities. We’ll also bathe elephants and learn about their lives at a local conservation camp.

THAILAND

In our off-time, we’ll go bicycling and kayaking in the mountains, zip-line through the lush rainforest, and even get a Thai massage. We’ll learn how to cook Thai food and explore the night markets and famous temples of Chiang Mai.

Community Service Service is an integral part of the program. You will volunteer at a local school teaching English, playing sports, and refurbishing the facilities. Additionally, you’ll have the option to work at an orphanage helping children or at a home for single mothers exiled from their communities.

Hands-On Learning

21-DAY FLAGSHIP PROGRAM June 15 – July 5 July 8 – July 28 Tuition: $4,699 Service hours: 60 14-DAY PROGRAM August 1 – August 14 Tuition: $3,199 Service hours: 40

We’ll experience the diversity of Thai culture. You’ll have the opportunity to converse with grassroots NGOs, get an authentic Thai massage, visit the morning market to gather fresh ingredients for a Thai cooking class, learn Muay Thai boxing, and hear about Buddhism’s influence on Thai culture and society. Chiang Mai, where we will be based, is a hot spot for groundbreaking NGO activity. Finally, work at an elephant conservation camp and gain hands-on experience bathing, training, and caring for elephants.

Adventure This program is filled with adventure, as Thailand is complete with not just culture but also beautiful landscapes. We’ll go bicycling and kayaking in the mountains, zip line through lush vegetation, ride a bamboo raft, and shop for handicrafts at the Chiang Mai night bazaar. Student participating in the 21-Day Flagship Program will do a weekend trek to a hill tribe community to observe their traditional way of life.

Lodging The GLA Home Base is a small resort on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. The resort contains a swimming pool and a cluster of chalets on the banks of the Mae Ping River.

Link this program to » THAILAND The Elephant Village Initiative, P. 28 June 15 - July 18

BALI Land of Discovery, P. 24 July 11 - August 14

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 27

+ 1 858 771 0645 27 www.experienceGLA.com

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THAILAND

The Elephant Village Initiative

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ΩVolunteer Ω with families caring for elephants Ω Connect with children at a village school Ω Speak with community leaders about the significance of their work Ω Experience Thailand’s vibrant culture Ω Visit colorful street markets filled with local handicrafts Ω Test your skills through rock climbing and a high ropes course 08/11/13 15:11

Learn about the importance of elephant conservation and how to care for these majestic animals. THAILAND

Travel to a remote village in northern Thailand where you will have the unique opportunity to connect with majestic elephants, and the people who commit their lives to caring for these special animals. In this program, we’ll rise early to bathe elephants in the river. We’ll learn how elephant conservation and tourism are connected and support the local community in these efforts. In the afternoons, we’ll work in the village school. In addition to volunteering, you will explore Thailand’s unique markets.

Community Service This is an incredible opportunity to get up close and personal with elephants - animals that have a long history and capture the hearts of many. Travel to a village where mahouts, elephant trainers, dedicate themselves to raising these animals. Work alongside the mahouts as you learn exactly what it takes to care for an elephant. In addition to caring for elephants, we’ll support the community by working in the village school. Be a friend and role model to youth growing up in this rural community.

Hands-On Learning

14-DAY PROGRAM June 19 – July 2 July 5 – July 18 July 22 – August 4 Tuition: $3,199 Service hours: 35

Without the tourism industry, elephant owners would struggle to provide for their human and elephant family members. We’ll visit local non-profits committed to this issue and debate some of the controversy surrounding Elephant camps and tourism. We’ll participate in workshops such as cooking classes, Thai language lessons, and team building through rock climbing.

Lodging The GLA Home Base is a rustic lodge in a northern Thai village. The Home Base provides all the basic necessities for GLA staff and students.

Adventure You’ll live in a community surrounded by rice paddies. Take advantage of this special opportunity! Rise at dawn to travel down to the river with your elephant. Feel what it is like to ride such a strong and gentle animal. Hike through remote mountains on an overnight camping excursion. Push yourself outside of your comfort zone on a rock climbing adventure. Taste foods you may never have seen before. Explore outdoor markets and discover fruits, vegetables, clothes, and handmade crafts found nowhere else on earth.

Link this program to » THAILAND Cultural Kaleidoscope, P. 26, June 15- July 18

INDIA Service in the Himalayas, P. 30, June 15 - July 18

FIJI Empowering Island Communities, P. 32, June 15 – July 18

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 29

+ 1 858 771 0645 29 www.experienceGLA.com

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INDIA

Service in the Himalayas

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ΩWork Ω in rural day care centers and organize a summer camp for children Ω Gaze in wonder at the Taj Mahal Ω Tackle issues of sustainability in a remote community Ω Meet cutting-edge non-profit organizations Ω Hike the snow-capped Himalayan mountains Ω Reflect in the temple of the Dalai Lama Ω Hear from leaders of the Tibetan refugee community 08/11/13 15:11

Discover a great civilization from majestic Himalayan peaks to the Taj Mahal. INDIA

Full of life, energy, color, and fragrances, India is an extremely diverse country. It is filled with vast differences in geography, climate, culture, language, and ethnicity. You will be immersed in local community life in the small township of Dharamsala, in the majestic Himalayan region. In addition to working in day care centers and running a summer camp, you will experience both traditional Himalayan culture and that of the Tibetan exile community. You’ll learn about prominent issues regarding environmental sustainability. Of course, the journey would not be complete without a visit to the Taj Majal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Community Service We’ll juggle rewarding projects during the program that will give us a glimpse into the lives of the region’s people. Helping to run a summer camp for Himalayan children, ranging from 4 to 15 years of age, we’ll develop arts and crafts projects, sports games, and dance and theatre workshops. We’ll also work in day care centers where the teachers and staff run their establishments with minimal resources.

Hands-On Learning

21-DAY FLAGSHIP PROGRAM June 15 – July 5 July 8 – July 28 Tuition: $4,699 Service hours: 50

We’ll learn about the diversity of Indian culture, pressing social issues and India’s role on the global stage. You will have the opportunity to converse with grassroots leaders, environmental activists, and local political figures. While you’re spending time in a Tibetan refugee town, you’ll learn about Tibetan Buddhism, arts, and music. You’ll also taste the flavors of Indian and Tibetan cuisine and even learn to cook some meals.

Adventure A private air-conditioned taxi will take us to Dharamsala, located in the Indian Himalayas, and one of the most visually stunning regions on earth. During one weekend, we’ll hike out to a rural village where we’ll camp out and live among the semi-nomadic Gaddi people and learn about their culture. We’ll spend the other weekend exploring Dharamsala and significant places related to Tibetan Buddhism. The journey begins and ends in Delhi. At the end of the program, we’ll travel south to the Taj Mahal, one of the great architectural marvels of the world.

Lodging In Dharamsala, the GLA Home Base is a large house in a residential part of the town where our staff and students will live together in gender-segregated rooms and enjoy home-cooked meals. In Delhi, we’ll stay at a hotel.

Link this program to » THAILAND The Elephant Village Initiative, P. 28 June 15 – July 18

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 31

+ 1 858 771 0645 31 www.experienceGLA.com

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FIJI

Empowering Island Communities™

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ΩWake Ω up daily in the tropics, surrounded by beaches and lush rainforest Ω Volunteer at a local school Ω Honor the islands’ fragile ecosystem by planting trees and cleaning up beaches Ω Travel up a tranquil river by bamboo raft, deep into the mountains Ω Snorkel along coral reefs teeming with exotic fish and marine life 08/11/13 15:11

333 islands. One Pacific paradise. This is Fiji, where powerful seeds of opportunity await your planting. FIJI

These islands are some of the most remote places on Earth. Fiji is indeed a tropical paradise. It is also a country with tremendous need. Learn about the settlement of the Pacific – how great explorers crossed thousands of miles of ocean by canoe to settle here. Watch the vast Pacific Ocean devour the setting sun each night. Connect through Fijian music and dance with a culture unlike any other. Volunteer at schools facing challenges in providing quality education to children. Work with organizations to protect the environment and combat deforestation. Uncover the complexities of each challenge as you play games with the children, marvel at the diversity of the rainforest, and swim alongside majestic sea life.

Community Service Teachers in Fiji face numerous challenges in their effort to provide quality education for all children. The geographical distribution of the population is a contributing factor. Learn about how rural schools lack proper water and electricity and have insufficient housing for teachers. Become a friend and role model to the children as you work to improve the learning environment at their school. Assist communities in protecting the environment that is so integral to their way of life. Protect hundreds of species of amphibians, birds, fish, mammals and reptiles. Many of these are endemic, meaning they exist nowhere else and that their existence is threatened.

Hands-On Learning 21-DAY FLAGSHIP PROGRAM June 15 – July 5 July 8 – July 28 Tuition: $4,699 Service hours: 45

In remote villages, learn what it is like to truly live off of the land. Help community members cultivate fruits and vegetables. Discover the many uses for a coconut and crack it open – if you can! Fish for your dinner. Consider how far other food may travel to reach you. Try your hand at weaving – mats for flooring, baskets and bags for gathering, or hats used to shield the sun. Watch and listen as ancient stories and legends unfold through traditional song and dance. Witness the deep respect this community has for its elders. Dialogue with village leaders about the issues facing their community. Gain their perspective and unique approach to affect change for future generations.

Adventure

Lodging The GLA Home Base is basic and comfortable. Students live in gender-segregated rooms with roommates. While living conditions are simple, you will quickly discover the rhythm of daily Fijian life. The Home Base is conveniently located near our service site and reflects the flavor of the island.

Link this program to » THAILAND The Elephant Village Initiative, P. 28 June 15 – July 18

Life in Fiji is a daily adventure. Glide by boat over crystal blue waters and wind by bamboo raft through river currents. Snorkel over coral reefs teeming with colorful fish as you explore the beauty of the coral’s shapes and colors. Hike to remote waterfalls surrounded by rainforest. Stand in awe of towering bamboo plants. Experience the vastness of the universe as you gaze at more stars than you’ve ever seen at once. Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 33

+ 1 858 771 0645 33 www.experienceGLA.com

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Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 35

+ 1 858 771 0645 35 www.experienceGLA.com

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GALAPAGOS

Preserving Nature’s Wonders ™

ΩVolunteer Ω to restore the habitat of native Galapagos wildlife ΩLive in a world where animals have no fear of humans Ω Snorkel with sea 36lions and multi-colored exotic fish Ω Straddle the northern and southern hemispheres at the actual Equator line Ω Kayak around untouched islands and see animals up close Ω Wander the cobblestone streets of colonial Quito 2014catalog.indd 36

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Live alongside exotic marine life in one of the last untouched places on earth. The Galapagos Islands, located off the coast of Ecuador, are so unique that UNESCO has designated them a World Heritage Site. These 19 islands have been called a “living museum” and “showcase of evolution.” While the archipelago has been the center of attention from conservationists around the world, it is under constant pressure from environmental threats. Come and experience one of the most pristine natural environments where conservationists are working to protect this unique ecosystem. Besides volunteering, you will also have the opportunity to hike lava fields, snorkel with seals and explore islands, volcanoes and reefs.

Community Service Of the nine days you spend on the Galapagos Islands, six of those days will consist of community service. The other three days will focus on exploring the islands and learning about the biology and geology of the Galapagos archipelago. The native wildlife of the islands is in danger because the animals’ natural habitat is under attack by invasive plants, litter, and foreign species. Students work to restore the natural habitat of the animals so that they can reproduce and grow. Our projects are in partnership with tortoise breeding centers on the islands of San Cristobal and Isabela. In all programs, students will have the unique opportunity to work on service projects on these two distinct islands.

14-DAY PROGRAM June 15 – June 28 July 1 – July 14 July 18 – July 31 August 3 – August 16 Tuition: $3,599 + $560 flight supplement* Service hours: 24 * The $560 domestic flight supplement covers roundtrip airfare from Quito to the Galapagos Islands and includes $110 of taxes, fees and permits paid upon arrival at the Galapagos airport.

Throughout the program, you will be in a “living classroom.” We will learn about issues related to the challenges of balancing the needs of humans with the imperative for biological protection and preservation. You will also witness firsthand the diversity of species that led Darwin to formulate his thinking on natural selection and adaptation. The entire journey will shed light into the history of these islands, human interaction and habitation, and the struggle to conserve the wildlife and fauna of this area.

Adventure

At the start and end of our journey, we will stay at a local hotel in Quito. In the Galapagos, we’ll spend the first four nights on Isabela Island and the next four nights on San Cristobal Island. We’ll have two Home Bases, one on each of the two islands. Each is a small hotel run out of the home of a local family. Students will share a room with two to four other students. Each room has a private bathroom. Students will eat meals with the local families. The families will share their home, culture, and personal experiences of living on the islands with us.

Link this program to »

This journey through the Galapagos Islands will prove to be the experience of a lifetime. This is not simply because of the rich and varied diversity of animals that you will see or their staggering numbers, but also because of their sublime indifference to you while observing them. Swim with sea lions and observe blue-footed boobies perched on rocks. The skies are filled with wheeling, courting, red-throated frigate birds. The lava rocks are piled high with motionless marine iguanas. A mind-boggling array of creatures lives in a paradise of crystal blue waters, white beaches and cool mangrove stands. Students will hike up to a volcano and explore the second largest crater in the entire world. We will swim through lagoons, snorkel through reefs and see wildlife that you have until now only read about.

COSTA RICA Protecting the Pacific, P. 48, Jun 18 - July 14, July 5 - July 31, July 21 - August 16

PERU Service in the Sacred Valley, P. 38, June 15 - July 11 July 1 - July 27 July 18 - August 13

DOMINICAN REP. Building a Sustainable World, Pg. 54, June 28 - July 31 Beachside Service Adventure, Pg. 56, June 22- July 14

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 37

GALAPAGOS

Hands-On Learning

Lodging

+ 1 858 771 0645 37 www.experienceGLA.com

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PERU

Service in the Sacred Valley

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ΩVolunteer Ω to improve the health and education of children Ω Bike through the Sacred Valley Ω Visit key archaeological sites of the Inca Empire ΩHands-on workshops on Andean music and dance Ω Whitewater raft through the Andes mountains Ω Be dazzled by the colors of the indigenous craft markets Ω Visit the lost city of Machu Picchu 08/11/13 15:12

The ancient Inca Empire is yours to discover while making a difference in the lives of families. Discover Cusco, the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, a 5,000 year old civilization shrouded in mystery and tradition. Volunteer with non-profit organizations that work to improve the health and well-being of indigenous children. On the weekends, explore the Sacred Valley by bike, raft and even hike to the lost city of Machu Picchu.

Community Service Our community service projects focus on improving public health for women and children. At one site, we work on a project to build clean-burning stoves to improve the respiratory health of women and children. We also build greenhouses so rural families can plant vegetable gardens to combat malnutrition in children as well as traditional medicinal plants.

Hands-On Learning

14-DAY PROGRAM June 12 – June 25 June 28 – July 11 July 14 – July 27 July 31 – August 13 Tuition: $3,199 Service hours: 33

Adventure The Sacred Valley surrounding Cusco is full of archaeological marvels built by the Inca Empire. We’ll visit many of these famous sites and even hike to the lost city of Machu Picchu. On our 21-Day Flagship program, you’ll also spend a weekend delving deep into the Sacred Valley by visiting ancient ruins on bicycles, camping in the hills and whitewater rafting down rivers winding through the Andes Mountains. We’ll also visit Pisac, one of Peru’s largest artisanal markets.

PERU

21-DAY FLAGSHIP PROGRAM June 29 – July 19 July 22 – August 11 Tuition: $4,699 Service hours: 51

The Quechua people of the Peruvian Andes are the direct descendents of the Inca Empire. We will learn firsthand about their unique and rich culture through Andean music and dance workshops, a Quechua language crash course, talks on Andean cosmology and meetings with traditional healers. Informally, you’ll experience the local culture through soccer games with local youth, meetings with farming communities and engaging discussions with non-profit organizations.

Lodging The GLA Home Base, which hosts the 14 day and 21 day programs simultaneously, is located in a beautiful hotel. There are two students per room. Our cooks will prepare Peruvian cuisine. During our weekend hiking excursions, students camp in tents provided by GLA.

Link this program to » GALAPAGOS Preserving Nature’s Wonders, P. 36, June 15 - July 11, July 1 - July 27, July 18 - August 13

COSTA RICA Empowering Rainforest Communities, P. 46, July 1- July 27

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Beachside Service Adventure, P. 56, July 5- July 27

ical Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 39

+ 1 858 771 0645 39 www.experienceGLA.com

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PERU

Spanish Service Adventure

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ΩΩTake your Spanish to the next level Ω Volunteer to improve the health and education of Peruvian children Ω Visit key archaeological sites of the Inca Empire Ω Whitewater raft through the Andes mountains Ω Shop and barter at the local indigenous craft market Ω Visit the lost city of Machu Picchu 08/11/13 15:12

Where ancient civilization and vibrant modern culture combine, your language skills will soar. Catapult your Spanish skills to the next level while discovering Cusco, the cultural heart of the Inca Empire. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of ancient flutes, colorful clothes and cobblestone streets. Volunteer to improve the health and wellbeing of indigenous children. On the weekends, explore the Sacred Valley and hike to the lost city of Machu Picchu. The GLA Experiential Language Curriculum™ integrates Spanish language learning into all aspects of the experience, allowing students to take away more of the culture, and also leave more behind. From community service to excursions and cultural events, language is given a new context. Spanish class will never be the same.

Community Service Our community service projects focus on improving public health of women and children. At one site, we work to build clean-burning stoves to improve the respiratory health of women and children. We will also install basic water filtration systems for rural families and help reforest tracts of deforested land. Through this combination of projects we can positively impact the health of these communities.

21-DAY LANGUAGE PROGRAM June 15 – July 5 July 8 – July 28 Tuition: $4,799 Service hours: 50

The ultimate language learning happens when you can practice that language with native speakers in everyday conversation. We use a unique immersion curriculum that combines classroom time with spoken Spanish in the community – during service, cultural activities and excursions. No prior knowledge of Spanish is required; you’ll be placed according to your ability. You will receive about 45 hours of Spanish immersion over the three weeks. The Quechua people of the Peruvian Andes are the direct descendants of the Inca Empire. We will learn firsthand about their culture through Andean music and dance workshops, talks on Andean cosmology, and meetings with traditional healers. You’ll experience the local culture through soccer games with local youth, meetings with farming communities, and engaging discussions with non-profit organizations.

Adventure

PERU

Hands-On Learning Lodging This GLA Home Base, located in a quaint mountain town 30 minutes outside of Cusco (elevation: 10,850 feet, 3.3 KM), is in a beautiful colonial home. There are four to six students per room, with a shared bathroom. Our local cooks will prepare authentic Peruvian cuisine, which is among the most diverse and delicious in the world.

Link this program to »

The Sacred Valley surrounding Cusco is full of archaeological marvels built by the Inca Empire. We’ll visit many of these famous sites, including a weekend camping excursion when we will trek to the lost city of Machu Picchu. You’ll spend a weekend delving deep into the Sacred Valley by visiting ancient ruins, camping in the hills and whitewater rafting through the Andes.

COSTA RICA Protecting the Pacific, P. 48, June 15 - July 18

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Beachside Service Adventure, P. 56, June 15 - July 14

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 41

+ 1 858 771 0645 41 www.experienceGLA.com

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Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 43

+ 1 858 771 0645 43 www.experienceGLA.com

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COSTA RICA

Spanish Service Adventure

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ΩΩTake your Spanish to the next level Ω Volunteer alongside communities and create a better life for their children Ω Dive deep into social issues facing our world Ω Ride down roaring rivers Ω Zip line through the forest Ω Hike through stunning landscapes Ω Relax on the beach 08/11/13 15:12

On this adventure, you’ll learn all of the important Spanish words for: climb, zip, hike, swim, serve! This is the best way to learn Spanish – in a fun and meaningful way! Costa Rica is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and a culture with warm and friendly people. Catapult your Spanish skills to the next level while volunteering in rural communities, studying the language, and enjoying the breathtaking biodiversity and adventure of Costa Rica.

Choose between two different campuses for this program: COAST or MOUNTAINS.

Community Service COAST You will volunteer with schools and community groups where you’ll help students improve their English as they help you improve your Spanish. We will also assist in projects such as building a library to help improve the school infrastructure. We may also develop activities for an informal summer camp for kids. 21-DAY LANGUAGE PROGRAM COAST June 15 – July 5 July 8 – July 28 Tuition: $4,799 Service hours: 45

14-DAY LANGUAGE PROGRAM COAST August 1 – August 14 Tuition: $3,199 Service hours: 30

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Work on family farms to build organic coffee cooperatives. Learn about sustainable and economical practices while helping protect the surrounding cloud forest. This is a great opportunity to practice your Spanish as you repair structures, make eco-bricks, and work alongside families committed to change.

Lodging

Hands-On Learning There’s no better way to learn Spanish than immersing yourself and practicing with native speakers, while being coached by experienced teachers. Our GLA Experiential Language Curriculum ™ seamlessly integrates Spanish into many aspects of the program, including community service and cultural activities. Our unique combination of classes and community service allows beginners to quickly learn the basics and gives advanced speakers the confidence to communicate with locals. Students will have 45 hours of language immersion on the 21-day program, and 30 hours on the 14-day program. You’ll also learn about Costa Rican culture through workshops on dance, cooking, music and social issues.

Adventure We will explore a wide range of places in Costa Rica and go on excursions that will get your adrenaline pumping. You’ll zip line through the treetops of the forest, ride river rapids, hike through the mountains surrounded by nature, and swim through the crystal blue ocean.

COAST On our 21-day Flagship program, spend a weekend at one of Costa Rica’s pristine beaches and try your hand at learning to surf.

MOUNTAINS

COAST The GLA Home Base is a small hotel located across the street from a beach popular with the local people. The Home Base has a small pool and is exclusively used by our staff and students.

MOUNTAINS The GLA Home Base is a small hotel nestled in picturesque mountains and surrounded by cloud forest. The Home Base has community rooms with spectacular views and is exclusively used by our staff and students.

Link this program to » COSTA RICA Protecting the Pacific, P. 48 June 15- July 18 • June 18- July 21 • July 1- August 3 Beachside Service Adventure, P. 50, July 24 - August 22

On our 21-day Flagship program, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Building a Sustainable World, P. 54, July 1- August 10 go rafting through raging rapids, travel by Beachside Service Adventure, P. 56, June 22- July 21 4x4 over the mountains, and explore Costa Rica’s famous beaches. Download program schedule at + 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com experienceGLA.com/info

COSTA RICA

21-DAY LANGUAGE PROGRAM MOUNTAINS July 1 - July 21 July 24 - August 13 Tuition: $4,799 Service hours: 60

MOUNTAINS

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COSTA RICA

Empowering Rainforest Communities ™

ΩΩSleep under the stars on a remote beach Ω Experience the mind-blowing diversity of the rainforest Ω Get airborne on a zipline 46through the canopy Ω Hike along the base of a volcano Ω Volunteer in rural communities surrounded by exotic vistas Ω Learn to identify species of tropical flora and fauna Ω Unwind in the wonder of natural hot springs 2014catalog.indd 46

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Discover a tropical rainforest teeming with heart-thumping adventure, wildlife, and communities in need. UNESCO, a UN body, named this region a World Heritage Site. You’ll experience firsthand one of the most distinctive destinations on earth, while you’re living in a jungle lodge surrounded by lush vegetation and the chatter of tropical birds and monkeys. Hike to a volcano above the clouds, zip-line over the rainforest canopy, ride horses through winding trails, and tube through rapids where the Atlantic and Pacific ecosystems collide. Experiencing the rainforest’s thrilling bounty inspires us to give back to the community, plant trees for reforestation efforts, and protect local wildlife. We play sports with local children and volunteer in a rural community supporting local schools through building and improving infrastructure.

Community Service Students will work on two projects. First is a reforestation project. In the mornings, we will build tree nurseries and plant trees to reforest the area. We’ll also clear trails through the forest to prevent degradation by hikers and other visitors. A couple of afternoons we’ll go out with biologists to collect species as part of a larger research project going on in the national park. The second project is the rainforest. We’ll volunteer working on environmental projects in the area and with the local school.

Hands-On Learning 14-DAY PROGRAM June 15 – June 28 July 1 – July 14 July 17 – July 30 Tuition: $3,199 Service hours: 25

You will experience a range of distinct ecosystems and be able to compare and contrast each one. While living in the cloud forest, we’ll examine issues related to water, public health, and ecological conservation. Working firsthand in a watershed area is the perfect setting to discuss the global water crisis and its effect on developing communities. See firsthand the challenges locals face with regard to access to natural resources. Along the way, you’ll discover a whole new world of animals and plant life. See tropical birds swooping through the forest and exotic monkeys playing in the jungle treetops. If you look closely enough you may even spot a rare sloth.

In both locations, you’ll be living in rustic bunkhouses surrounded by nature. There are two bunk beds and a fan in each room. Cold water showers and western style toilets are available. While both are very simple living conditions, the rainforest location has cooler temperatures.

Link this program to » COSTA RICA Beachside Service Adventure, P. 50, July 8 - July 30

PERU You’ll engage in just about every outdoor activity imaginable! The huge range of ecosysService in the Sacred Valley, P. 38, July 1 - July 27 tems concentrated in a relatively small geographic area provides a vast array of exciting DOMINICAN REPUBLIC outdoor adventures. We’ll explore the forests by hiking and zip lining. You’ll also hike Beachside Service Adventure, P. 56, June 22- July 14 along the base of an active volcano, camp overnight on a remote beach and learn to sea kayak, ride inner tubes down a roaring jungle river, bathe underneath a waterfall and ride horses through the forest. Download program schedule at + 1 858 771 0645 www.experienceGLA.com experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 47

COSTA RICA

Adventure

Lodging

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COSTA RICA

Protecting the Pacific

™

ΩΩVolunteer alongside local community members to preserve and protect the Pacific Ω Learn to surf in Costa Rica’s first Marine National Park Ω Cruise through pristine waters, scouting for dolphins, whales, turtles, and tropical fish 48 Ω Hike through lush rainforest Ω Snorkel through warm waters exploring exotic marine life Ω Zip line through the forest 2014catalog.indd 48

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Turn your passion for Earth’s oceans into an experience you’ll never forget. National Geographic calls it “the most biologically intense place on Earth,” and it’s calling you. The deeper your exploration into Costa Rica’s awe-inspiring, majestic waters, the more important your work to protect them will become. Here you’ll volunteer to preserve a coastline park called Whale Bay, and the greater ocean, as you discover the issues critical to local coastal sustainable development. Become a key team member, examining the full spectrum of marine conservation, from socioeconomic to ecological factors. Follow grassroots leaders and community members to breathtaking discoveries at every turn. You’ll also take in eyefuls of exotic wildlife, with the possibility of spotting tropical fish, dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and other sea creatures. Experience the thrills of the ocean on a surfboard as you work to preserve the natural beauty around you.

Community Service Contaminants generated by the local community find their way into the ocean, endangering Whale Bay and its wildlife. We’ll work to prevent these contaminants from entering the ocean by building filter systems (called biogardens). We’ll clean up the beaches around Whale Bay using cutting-edge GPS mapping technology used by Stanford University. We’ll also volunteer at a local school and with community organizations to help support ongoing community projects designed to educate the community about recycling, trash, and pollution. These contributions you make to the marine ecosystem will help sustain its beauty and wildlife for years to come.

Lodging

Hands-On Learning

The Home Base is a hotel close to the ocean. Students stay in gender-segregated rooms with fans and bathrooms with cold water showers. There is also a pool. Meals will be hearty and healthy, consisting of meats, beans, rice, vegetables and fruit.

Link this program to » COSTA RICA Beachside Service Adventure, P. 50, June 26 - July 18 Spanish Service Adventure, P. 44, June 15 - July 18 • June 18 - July 21 • July 1 - August 3

Adventure Adventure is an inescapable constant of the program. You’ll zip through treetops, swim in a waterfall pool, and learn to surf in the famous waves of Costa Rica. We’ll also kayak through the mangroves, snorkel in waters teeming with tropical fish, and hike through Corcovado National Park, crowned by National Geographic as “the most biologically intense place on Earth in terms of biodiversity”.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Beachside Service Adventure, P. 56, June 9 - July 1 • July 29 - August 20

GALAPAGOS Preserving Nature’s Wonders, P. 36, June 18 - July 14 • July 5 - July 31 • July 21- August 16

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 49

+ 1 858 771 0645

COSTA RICA

14-DAY PROGRAM June 18 – July 1 July 5 – July 18 July 21 – August 3 August 7 – August 20 Tuition: $3,199 Service hours: 30

Swim. Surf. Snorkel. Kayak. Hike. Zip line. Through a variety of activities, you’ll get to know this community and its deep connection to the rainforest and ocean. You’ll immerse yourself in the history of the marine park, connect with grassroots leaders working to implement best practices for sustainable marine tourism, and play soccer with the local youth. You’ll even learn about sustainable lodging and take a cooking class from the leaders who operate the GLA Home Base!

www.experienceGLA.com

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COSTA RICA

Beachside Service Adventure

ΩΩLive in a coastal village at the edge of the beautiful Salinas Bay Ω Volunteer to expand opportunities for local children 50 Ω Ride inner tubes down a jungle river Ω Hike along the side of a volcano Ω Zip line through the forest 2014catalog.indd 50

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Experience the pure life - or Pura Vida - while giving back in an underserved beach community. Its name captures the richness of its nature and its spirit, but words pale in comparison to the real thing. Escape to Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, where you’ll volunteer in an underserved fisherman’s village and work to improve the lives of youth there. Clean up beaches, play sports with local children, help improve the schools, and relax after a hard days work at our beautiful beachfront Home Base. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy sports, swimming games, and other activities with your new friends from all over the world.

Community Service We’re living and working in a rural community where most people are farmers or fishermen. We’ll be working on a variety of projects depending on the need of the community. We may assist in projects to improve a school’s infrastructure (such as building a playground or an outdoor basketball court), provide after-school activities for children, or help the local development association and women’s group.

Hands-On Learning 10-DAY PROGRAM June 14 - June 23 June 26 – July 5 July 8 – July 17 July 20 – July 29 August 1 – August 10 August 13 – August 22 Tuition: $2,199 Service hours: 20

Living in an authentic community is a great way to learn about Costa Rican culture. Connect with the local people, learn to dance salsa and cumbia, taste exotic fruits, and try your hand at cooking local cuisine. Have discussions about current social issues in Costa Rica, including the impact Nicaraguan refugees have had on society.

Adventure

The Home Base, which also hosts the Sports Service Adventure program, is a campus close to the beach in a rural community that most travelers never get to see. The campus has dorm rooms with three beds in each room and a private bathroom. There is an eating area with a beautiful thatched roof that looks out over the pool. To cool off, students can take a dip in the large swimming pool.

Link this program to » COSTA RICA Protecting the Pacific, P. 48, June 26 - July 18 Empowering Rainforest Communities, P. 46, July 8 - July 30 Spanish Service Adventure, P. 44, July 24 - August 22

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 51

+ 1 858 771 0645

COSTA RICA

Costa Rica offers many exciting excursions in a natural setting. We’ll zip line through a forest, ride horses through a jungle paradise, and ride inner tubes down a roaring river. You’ll also hike along the base of an active volcano and spend time on pristine beaches. Our location on a private beach resort allows us space for impromptu soccer and volleyball games as well as a variety of water sports. Dance the night away with other students, participate in team building activities, and catch breath-taking sunsets off the coast of majestic Costa Rican beaches.

Lodging

www.experienceGLA.com

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COSTA RICA

Sports Service Adventure

ΩΩLead a youth soccer clinic and create memories for local kids Ω Live in a coastal village at the edge of the beautiful Salinas Bay Ω Ride 52 inner tubes down a jungle river Ω Hike alongside a volcano Ω Practice your spike and serve in the sand ΩFind a new rhythm with Central American music, dance and tradition Ω Propel through a tropical forest on a zip line 2014catalog.indd 52

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Inspire a winning team and connect with locals through your shared passion for sports. Learn about Latin American soccer culture and connect with the local community through a common passion for sports. The ocean will serve as your own backyard as you play competitive sports with Costa Rican youth. Strengthen bonds with new friends through team building activities as you zip line, tube down rapids, and hike along the base of an active volcano. You’ll go beyond the playing field as you try local foods, learn traditional music and dances, and spend quality time with Costa Rican families helping their community. Connect with local children in an active, meaningful way helping them to boost self-esteem, promote collaboration, and succeed in other aspects of life.

Community Service You’ll live and volunteer in a rural community where most people are farmers or fishermen and children only attend school for half the day. During the half of the day when they are not in school, we will connect with the children through their shared passion for sports. Additionally, we’ll help make improvements to their soccer field or school grounds. You’ll also have a chance to teach new sports like kickball and dodgeball as you set a good example and expand the awareness for good sportsmanship for the children of the community.

Hands-On Learning

Adventure Costa Rica offers many exciting excursions in a natural setting. We’ll zip line through a forest and ride horses through a jungle paradise. You’ll also hike along the base of an active volcano. Our beautiful beachside oasis provides opportunities for impromptu swimming races, volleyball games, morning runs, and sunset yoga sessions complete with a stunning tropical view.

Lodging Students on this program join students on the Beachside Service Adventure program for afternoon activities around the Home Base, which is a campus close to the beach in a rural community. Students share dorm rooms with roommates and have private bathrooms. There is an eating area with a beautiful thatched roof that looks out over the pool.

Link this program to » COSTA RICA Protecting the Pacific, P. 48, June 26 - July 18 Empowering Rainforest Communities, P. 46, July 8 - July 30 Spanish Service Adventure, P. 44, July 24 - August 22

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 53

COSTA RICA

10-DAY PROGRAM June 14 – June 23 June 26 – July 5 July 8 – July 17 July 20 – July 29 August 1 – August 10 August 13 - August 22 Tuition: $2,199 Service hours: 20

Living in an authentic community and participating in sports are great ways to learn about Costa Rican culture and its impact on society. Meet local families, learn to dance salsa and cumbia, taste exotic fruits, try your hand at cooking local cuisine, and learn about current social issues affecting Costa Ricans.

+ 1 858 771 0645 53 www.experienceGLA.com

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Building a Sustainable World ™

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ΩΩVolunteer to implement ecologically sustainable projects in rural areas Ω Visit Haitian resettlement villages Ω Ride a catamaran in the Caribbean and explore pristine beaches Ω Meet dynamic leaders and NGOs implementing cutting edge social programs Ω Explore the colonial city of Santo Domingo 08/11/13 15:13

Dive deep into environmental sustainability issues and develop leadership skills to address humanity’s greatest environmental challenges. Led by Dave Addison, our International Director who has his PhD in Global Sustainability, the group will meet with major NGOs and local leaders who are making great progress on sustainability in the Caribbean. You will be given the tools and support to design your own project as you collaborate with your peers to determine ways to empower change in a Dominican community, as well as in your home communities. You will evaluate the role of natural resources in your life and determine the vital purpose they play in the future of the world.

Community Service Our group will volunteer on various sustainability projects throughout the country including the construction of clean-burning stoves in rural communities and building schools from recycled materials; we will also assist in the development of agriculture and reforestation systems. In addition, you can share your talents doing arts and crafts, playing sports and games, and teaching basic conversational English with local children that our group will meet along the way. We’ll even visit Haitian resettlement villages and brighten the lives of those who have lost everything and now live in the Dominican Republic.

Hands-On Learning

Adventure We’ll explore the tropical countryside through long hikes out to remote villages and swims in freshwater lagoons. We’ll ride a catamaran in the Caribbean, snorkel through crystal blue waters and coral reefs, and sunbathe on pristine white sand beaches. In addition, we will explore urban life in the colonial capital, Santo Domingo and also the town of Dajabon, on the border with Haiti. The Dominican Republic is an ideal place for those looking for fun and adventure in the sun while making a difference.

Lodging The GLA Home Base is a rustic eco lodge built from locally available materials in the style of the Taino Indians. There is a small swimming pool and it’s right on the beach. Students will have three to four roommates per room. Bathrooms have western style toilets and showers. This Home Base is exclusively used by our students and staff.

Link this program to » COSTA RICA Spanish Service Adventure, P. 44, July 1 - August 10

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Beachside Service Adventure, P. 56, July 21 - August 19

GALAPAGOS Preserving Nature’s Wonders, P. 36, June 28 - July 31

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 55

+ 1 858 771 0645

DOMINICAN Rep.

21-DAY FLAGSHIP PROGRAM June 28 – July 18 July 21 – August 10 Tuition: $4,699 Service hours: 60

We will explore topics in environmental sustainability, the most critical issue of the 21st century. Through the service work and seminars, you will learn for yourself how to envision and change your life to become more sustainable. These seminars are carefully designed to allow you to make connections between the work at the community service project and issues facing the rest of the world. You will also learn about the vibrant Dominican culture through music, dance, and food.

www.experienceGLA.com

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Beachside Service Adventure

ΩΩPlay a key role in ecologically-sustainable development projects Ω Zip along a cable and freefall into a freshwater lagoon Ω Snorkel in the Caribbean among multi-colored fish Ω Ride a catamaran over crystal blue waters Ω Witness up-close the role 56 of dance, folklore and baseball in this society 2014catalog.indd 56

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Appreciate the beauty of the island and its people; be part of sustainable solutions to end its poverty. To most visitors, the Dominican Republic is a travel destination famous for its enchanting resorts and beaches, as well as its friendly and vibrant people. But this Spanish-speaking country on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola is also a destination ripe for positive change. You’ll spend ten days working directly with impoverished rural communities to better their lives: in the mountains, helping to build their water systems and homes, and in the lowlands, contributing to reforestation projects. Unmatched natural beauty and human interaction will allow you to share in the spirit and strength of the Dominican people.

Community Service Students will volunteer in rural and urban communities working on sustainable projects such as reforestation, construction of clean-burning stoves, and school building. Students will also work with local children at Haitian resettlement villages, sharing their talents doing arts and crafts, playing sports and games, and teaching basic conversational English. Most importantly, you will be a friend and role model to young children who have limited exposure to the rest of the world.

Hands-On Learning

Adventure

The GLA Home Base is a rustic eco lodge built from locally available materials in the style of the Taino Indians. There is a small swimming pool and it’s right on the beach. Students will have three to four roommates per room. Bathrooms have western style toilets and showers. Meals will consist of meats, beans, rice, vegetables and fruit. This Home Base is exclusively used by our students and staff.

Link this program to » COSTA RICA

We’ll get out and explore the tropical countryside through long hikes out to remote villages, ride a catamaran over the blue Caribbean sea, freefall into a freshwater lagoon, explore underwater caverns and check out the pristine sand beaches and remote mountain villages.

Protecting the Pacific , P. 48 , June 9 - July 1, July 29 - August 20 Empowering Rainforest Communities, P. 46, June 22 - July 14 Spanish Service Adventure, P. 44, June 22 - July 21

PERU Service in the Sacred Valley, P. 38, July 5 - July 27 Spanish Service Adventure, P. 40, June 15 - July 14

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Building a Sustainable World, P. 54, July 21 - August 19

GALAPAGOS Preserving Nature’s Wonders, P. 36, June 22 - July 14

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 57

+ 1 858 771 0645

DOMINICAN Rep.

10-DAY PROGRAM June 9 – June 18 June 22 – July 1 July 5 – July 14 July 17 – July 26 July 29 - August 7 August 10 - August 19 Tuition: $2,199 Service hours: 30

Sustainable development has become a necessity for all of humanity. We must learn to live in harmony with our environment. Through the service work and seminars, you will learn how to live sustainably and develop tools to empower others to do so as well. We will also learn about the vibrant Dominican culture – a mix of indigenous, African, and European - through music and dance and interactions with locals living in the villages and coastal communities.

Lodging

www.experienceGLA.com

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Spring Break Service Adventure

ΩΩVolunteer to implement ecologically sustainable development projects Ω Explore freshwater lagoons and underwater caverns Ω Ride a catamaran over crystal blue waters Ω Explore pristine beaches Ω Soak up the rhythms of the Caribbean

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Spring Break will always be fun… but meaningful, too? The Dominican Republic is home to the world’s most enchanting beaches, and is well known for its friendly and passionate people. You’ll spend the week helping impoverished rural communities and also enjoy some fun in the sun swimming in freshwater lagoons, riding a catamaran in the Caribbean, snorkeling through crystal blue waters and coral reefs, and relaxing on pristine white sand beaches.

Hands-On Learning The Dominican Republic has a rich culture that combines African, indigenous and European traditions. You will learn about the vibrant Dominican culture through the music and dance and interactions with locals living in the mountain villages and in coastal communities. In addition, you’ll gain a deep understanding of sustainability and how development can happen in harmony with the environment. 8-DAY PROGRAM April 5 – April 12 April 12 – April 19 April 19 – April 26 Tuition: $1,799 Service hours: 20

Adventure

The GLA Home Base is a rustic eco lodge built from locally available materials in the style of the Taino Indians. There is a small swimming pool and it is right on the beach. Students will have three to four roommates per room. Bathrooms have western style toilets and showers. This Home Base is exclusively used by our students and staff. Food will be healthy and locally grown consisting of meats, beans, rice, vegetables, and fruit.

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 59

+ 1 858 771 0645

DOMINICAN Rep.

This program takes you away from the typical tourist resorts of the Dominican Republic and exposes you to regular life in a rural part of the country. You’ll be welcomed into the local community while you dance to the beats of merengue and bachata music with the children of the neighboring village. Ride an ocean catamaran and explore history on the northern coast. One afternoon we will challenge the children to a game of baseball and learn about the cultural significance of baseball in this country.

Lodging

www.experienceGLA.com

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GUATEMALA

Spanish, Service & Maya Culture

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ΩΩTake your Spanish to the next level Ω Hike to the crater of a dormant volcano Ω Explore exciting works of indigenous art Ω Sample coffee straight from the source on an organic coffee plantation Ω Meet a traditional Maya shaman Ω Climb the Tikal pyramids 08/11/13 15:14

This is the end of vocabulary words and sample conversations, and the beginning of stories and accomplishments. Todo en español. Step directly into the 4,000 year old world of the Maya: a civilization rich with history, art, culture, and breathtaking mountain scenery. In Guatemala, you’ll learn first-hand about how Maya traditions have both evolved and been preserved through a combination of globalization, civil wars and subsequent peace accords, we’ll also fly to the Maya archaeological site of the Tikal pyramids (a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site built over 2,000 years ago). This GLA Language Program integrates the Spanish language learning into all aspects of the experience, allowing students to take away more of the culture, and also leave more behind. From community service to excursions and cultural events, language is given a new context. Spanish class will never be the same.

Community Service You will volunteer at a local school by refurbishing it and working with the children. The school is unique in that it is run by Maya teachers and actively promotes indigenous language and culture. You will fix up the school by painting or building classrooms as well as organizing games with the children. In addition, you can share your talents doing arts and crafts, playing sports and games, and teaching basic conversational English. This is more than just a teen community service trip, it’s also an opportunity to connect with a whole new culture.

Hands-On Learning

Adventure

Lodging The GLA Home Base is a lodge on the outskirts of Xela offering students a peaceful escape. Students and staff live in gender-segregated rooms with 2-4 bunk beds per room depending on the size of the room. Bathrooms are shared and have hot water. The Home Base is modest yet very comfortable.

Link this program to »

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Beachside Service Adventure, P. 56, June 27 - July 26 Throughout the program, we’ll embark on a range of adventures and visit many small towns and villages along the way. Over the weekends we’ll visit Lake Atitlan, the Maya market town of Chichicastenango, archaeological ruins at Takalik Abaj, organic coffee farms, and the sacred Laguna Chicabal, located at the top of a dormant volcano. During the weekdays, we’ll meet with a traditional music group, visit a Maya artist’s studio, try our hand at weaving colorful textiles and meet inspirational grassroots leaders. At the end of the program, we’ll fly to the ancient Maya ruins of Tikal - an experience you’ll never forget! Download program schedule at + 1 858 771 0645 experienceGLA.com/info

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GUATEMALA

21-DAY LANGUAGE PROGRAM June 27 - July 17 July 20 - August 9 Tuition: $4,799 Service hours: 45

Learning Spanish is best when you can practice it with native speakers in everyday conversation. Designed for high school students, the GLA Experiential Language Curriculum ™ seamlessly integrates language into many aspects of the program, including community service, cultural activities, and excursions. Our unique combination of classes and community service allows beginners to quickly learn the basics and gives advanced speakers the confidence to use their skills with native speakers. You will receive 45 hours of Spanish immersion. We will also learn about the local culture through hands-on workshops with musicians, artists and weavers and even meet a traditional shaman who will teach us about Maya cosmology.

www.experienceGLA.com

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GUATEMALA

Children of the Maya ™

Ω 62ΩVolunteer at a Maya school Ω Journey across sacred Lake Atitlan Ω Attend a ceremony with a Maya shaman Ω Explore ancient archaeological ruins Ω Shop at the largest indigenous craft market in the hemisphere 2014catalog.indd 62

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See the world of the Maya through the eyes of a future generation. Observing the traditions of an ancient culture, while navigating an increasingly globalized world, is the exciting challenge of this immersive program. Experience and interact with the art, artifacts, landscape, and inspiring young minds of Guatemala while you give back to a community in need. Based in Quetzaltenango (or “Xela” – shay-lah – as it’s referred to by locals), four hours from the capital city, students will get to know the Xelaju people in this historically-treasured town of great scenic beauty.

Community Service You will spend the week volunteering at a local school refurbishing and building classrooms and working with the Maya children. The school is unique in that it is run by Maya teachers and actively promotes indigenous language and culture. In addition to building classrooms, you can share your talents doing arts and crafts, playing sports and games, and teaching basic conversational English.

Hands-On Learning

14-DAY PROGRAM June 14 - June 27 June 30 – July 13 July 16 – July 29 August 1 – August 14 Tuition: $3,199 Service hours: 30

Rural Guatemala is the perfect place to learn first-hand about Maya culture. We will meet a traditional shaman who will teach us about Maya cosmology, and also learn about medicinal plants used by the Quiche people of the region. You’ll dive into Guatemala’s rich culture by learning how to make colorful indigenous textiles, play the marimba (the national instrument of Guatemala) and even soak up art by indigenous painters. You will meet with grassroots leaders to learn about the challenges the Maya community faces to preserve their heritage in the face of globalization.

Adventure

The GLA Home Base is a lodge on the outskirts of Xela surrounded by beautiful mountains and fields offering a peaceful escape for students. Students live in gendersegregated rooms with two to three bunk beds, depending on the size of the rooms. Bathrooms are shared and showers have both hot and cold water. The Home Base is modest, yet comfortable for students.

Link this program to » DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Beachside Service Adventure, P. 56, July 16 - August 7

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 63

+ 1 858 771 0645

GUATEMALA

Xela is located near many important cultural treasures, such as the famous Maya ruins at Takalik Abaj. We’ll participate in a traditional ceremony with a Maya shaman. We will visit Antigua, a charming colonial town with gorgeous architecture and cobblestone streets. We’ll also explore Lake Atitlan, which rests at the foot of three massive conical volcanoes, and Chichicastenango with the largest Maya craft market in the world.

Lodging

www.experienceGLA.com

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Staff Profiles

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Andrew Motiwalla

Jessica Rose Miller

FOUNDER Andrew served in the Peace Corps and has extensive experience operating international educational programs around the world. He served as Senior Vice President for the non-profit international volunteer program Cross-Cultural Solutions, where he helped build programs from scratch into a network of 14 countries and 2,500 volunteers. Andrew is a graduate of Lawrence University and has done graduate studies in non-profit management at New School University in New York City. He speaks Spanish and Portuguese.

DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS Jessica has worn many hats over the years at GLA. She currently oversees the enrollment and pre-departure process for families before, during, and after programs. Jessica has a passion for international education and social entrepreneurship that stems from various experiences studying, living and working abroad. Jessica is a graduate of Oregon State University, where she studied history, anthropology and Spanish. She has managed and led almost all of GLA’s programs on every continent and knows that the next generation can and will “be the change!”

Fred Swaniker

Sandy Cooper

FOUNDER Originally from Ghana, Fred lived all over the African continent before attending Macalester College in St. Paul, MN and then the Stanford Graduate School of Business. It was during his time at Stanford when he realized that it was a lack of ethical, principled leadership that was holding back development on the African continent. Determined to address this fundamental challenge, he formed his vision for the African Leadership Academy. In order to build cross-cultural leadership abilities in all youth, he conceived what would become Global Leadership Adventures.

SENIOR MANAGER OF PROGRAMS Sandy first lived abroad at age 15, and has continued to live, study, travel, and work in over 30 countries. After graduating from Skidmore College, Sandy served with the Peace Corps in the Republic of Kiribati and with AmeriCorps as a Team Leader. Her commitment to social responsibility led Sandy to co-found Thinking Beyond Borders, an organization designed for Gap Year students to explore international development through global service learning and academic study. Sandy is certified in Nonprofit Management, is a Wilderness First Responder, and speaks Spanish and Kiribati.

Mike Shangkuan

Fletcher Walters

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Although he was born and raised in New Jersey, he is the son of parents who emigrated from Taiwan. His passion for travel and immersing himself in other cultures began in high school when he took his first trip outside of the States to France. It was a life-changing experience. Since then he has lived in eight countries across Europe, Latin America, and Asia. Mike is fluent in Mandarin and Spanish and likes to travel, lift weights, and sing in his free time. He graduated from Yale in 1997 with a BA in economics and from Harvard Business School in 2002 with a MBA.

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Fletcher developed a passion for travel and the cultural impact of sports as he played professional basketball in Germany and in Luxembourg. He has a political science degree from Amherst College and was part of the school’s first National Championship in NCAA D3 basketball. Fletcher has volunteered in Germany and the Dominican Republic, teaching and coaching health and wellness through sports.

Judy Calkins

Lisa Galloway

FINANCIAL CONTROLLER A California native, Judy is the Financial Controller, earning her degree from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA. She has held several finance, leadership, and IT positions during that time. She has traveled internationally to Costa Rica, Ireland, Scotland, Mexico and Peru. She has volunteered in Peru, with Big Sisters and in youth sports. She loves reading, hiking, snow skiing and trying new adventures. She has a passion to help broaden high school students’ knowledge of life experiences through international travels and understanding other cultures.

TRAVEL OPERATIONS MANAGER Lisa first volunteered abroad as a young adult in Costa Rica. This experience changed the way she thought about herself, her world, and traveling internationally. After graduating from San Diego State University Lisa traveled to New Zealand, Fiji, Japan, and across the United States. She is thrilled to help high school students embark on international volunteer experiences that will help change their lives. Lisa has staffed GLA programs in the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, and Guatemala and she believes that meaningful travel abroad can help shape the world. For more staff profiles, please see page 11.

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Bridget McFaul

Korissa Dyle

Carly Sullivan

SENIOR ENROLLMENT ADVISOR Bridget enjoys helping students find international experiences which will benefit them for the rest of their lives. Bridget is a graduate of San Diego State University and has a deep passion for international relations, community service, and working with youth.

SENIOR ENROLLMENT ADVISOR Korissa believes that one of the best ways to learn about yourself and the world is through meaningful educational travel, especially abroad. While earning her Spanish degree at the University of Wisconsin â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Eau Claire, she was able to study abroad in both Spain and Mexico.

PROGRAM SPECIALIST With a degree in natural resources, and a love for education, Carly believes in experiential education as a means for inspiring youth. She began working for GLA in 2009, leading programs in Costa Rica, Ecuador, Thailand, Tanzania, and Ghana.

Maria McCain

Paulina Gajardo

Sue Cuthbert

ENROLLMENT ADVISOR Maria regards international travel as one of the greatest and most influential gifts a person can receive. She studied environmental studies at West Virginia University while also studying in England.

ENROLLMENT ADVISOR Paulina was born in Chile and immigrated to the United States at a young age. She went on to graduate with a degree in political science from San Diego State University and has since tutored immigrant students.

ENROLLMENT ADVISOR After sending her son on a GLA program to Tanzania, she was so impressed with the program and the transformation, she was excited to work for GLA and help other teens do the same. She is a graduate of San Diego State University.

Charlotte Romero

Melissa Guerrero

Sydney Miller

BOOKKEEPER Charlotte has her BA in accounting from Columbia College and is the Treasurer for The Kiwanis Club of Hidden Valley and Club Coordinator for the Eliminate Project. She believes in changing the world one child and one community at a time.

PROGRAM COORDINATOR Melissa was born in Guayaquil, Ecuador and immigrated to California when she was 2 years old. Before earning her BA and BCLAD credential at San Diego State University, she spent time abroad in Spain where she discovered her passion for education and travel.

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING MANAGER Sydney believes that the future depends upon people being thoughtful, dedicated global citizens, and that traveling abroad is one of the best ways to achieve this. She earned her BA from Oregon State University and has traveled throughout Europe and Costa Rica.

Carol della Croce

Sara McDaniel

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

WRITER Sara is working toward her Ph.D. in education at SDSU. She was a Teach for America Corps Member, and believes education is critical in addressing societal inequities and in giving youth opportunities to develop their global consciousness.

A native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Carol holds a degree in social communications and graphic design from Buenos Aires University. Having staffed programs in the Dominican Republic, Peru, Costa Rica, and Guatemala, she aspires to provide eye-opening experiences to younger generations.

Download program schedule at experienceGLA.com/info 2014catalog.indd 65

+ 1 858 771 0645 65 www.experienceGLA.com

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