Minnesota: One Heartland

Preparing a summer camp where all children are welcome and have the opportunity to be a kid

Community Partner: One Heartland

Trip Dates: December 14-21, 2024

Location: Willow River, Minnesota

Number of Participants: 10-20

Price: $500

Included in participant fee:

All logistical and travel expenses: Roundtrip transportation (flights to and from Minneapolis, Minnesota), rental vehicles for local transportation (damage/insurance coverage included), and overnight lodging for entire week on-site in cabins at One Heartland.
Project/service fees OR donation to community partner for facilitating week of service/alternative break experience.
Buck-I-SERV supplies/swag: Individual items (t-shirts, water bottles, fanny packs, pens, and reflection booklets for each group member) and group items (first aid kit, disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, deck of playing cards, and thank you card for community partner).
Buck-I-SERV Events and Training: Winter Kick-Off and Welcome Back events with catering and pre-trip education and training.
Meals and group activities: The group will be provided a budget to use for group meals and group activities. Participants should plan to bring money for out of pocket expenses.

Travel and housing:

Participants will fly roundtrip to and from Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Upon arrival in Minneapolis, the group will pick up rental vehicles at the airport and drive to Willow River where One Heartland is located.
Housing for the trip is provided on-site in cabins at the camp.
A packing list will be provided to participants and discussed during pre-trip meetings leading up to departure.

What to expect:

One Heartland strives to improve the lives of children, youth, and families facing significant health challenges or social isolation. They hope to one day see a world where everyone feels appreciated, celebrated, and free of stigma and discrimination.
One Heartland has camp sessions designed for families impacted by HIV/AIDs, LGBTQIA+ youth, and families experiencing homelessness.
The average work day is from around 7a.m.-5p.m. Service projects will vary based on the time of year, as well as needs determined by the staff. Each day may be different, and the ability to be flexible with tasks is needed. For example, participants may work on preparing/maintaining the camp with projects such as painting or mulching, or helping with arts and crafts.