Summer 2006 was the kick-off year for the YOUTH Travel Scholarships. Thanks to a generous donation from a Hostelling International member, HI-ENEC was able to award scholarships to three Boston area youth serving organizations to help fund trips to Martha’s Vineyard. Almost all of the youths that traveled had never been to Martha’s Vineyard and some rarely have a chance to go on vacation or to the beach.
HI-ENEC was honored to help fund three impressive and valuable organizations. The groups that traveled to Martha’s Vineyard serve young people ages 12-16 and offer their youth programming free of charge.
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Maverick Tenants Organization (MTO) is an advocacy and support group serving the residents of Maverick Gardens, a mixed income housing development in East Boston. Eight youth traveled with two chaperones, during a hazy and overcast week in late June. Despite the weather, the group thoroughly enjoyed their stay.
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"None of the youth in our group had ever been on a ferry before and they loved it. They were yelling and laughing during the whole ride. They were picking out the mansions they would like to own one day along the coast . . ." Jessica Stetson, Youth Outreach Coordinator, Housing Opportunities Unlimited
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Three staff members led eight youth from the Jordan Boys & Girls Club on their two night trip to the island, in early June. This group also spent time at the beach, had a scavenger hunt around the island to become familiar with it, and took a kayaking trip where they learned about the plant and sea life on the island.
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"Thanks! The trip was fun, the food was good, and the kayaking was a blast. I enjoyed going there, and I appreciate all that you did."
- Braulio and Wayne, youth travelers |
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A total of 30 people, four chaperones and 26 youth traveled with MY TOWN Inc. in late July. This unique organization trains youth from various Boston neighborhoods to act as tour guides during the summer season. Throughout the program, youth gain vital leadership, cultural competency, employability and civic engagement skills. The trip incorporated into the youth’s training to help understand the history of Massachusetts with a focus on Native American history.
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"Not only did we witness a great deal of new things/locations, but helped to breakdown stereotypes amongst youth guides about the island and with islanders about urban youth” Kris Carter, Youth Guide Program Manager, MYTOWN Inc.
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HI-ENEC would like to continue offer Boston’s youth the opportunity to leave the city on a trip where they can relax, recreate and be exposed to other cultures. Fundraising is now underway for summer 2007. You can help bring youth from the inner-city to one of our country’s top destinations by making a contribution today. To contribute to the YOUTH Travel Scholarships,
click here.
