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What kind of people come to the Global Youth Village (GYV)? What is the population?

If you are interested in current events and international relations, like to travel and meet people, and have a sense that things could be better in this world, then this is a program for you.

Every year teens from approximately 15-20 different countries attend the Global Youth Village. Some have been awarded scholarships from local foundations. They come from different economic, religious, ethnic and cultural backgrounds. On average, about 50% of come from across the United States and 50% come from other countries.

 

What will I do?

First, you will make a lot of friends. You will enjoy cooperative living in your cabin group, attend a workshop of your choosing, and try things you have never done in the afternoons. See examples of these activities here.

When do your programs start to fill up?

Because we keep our group size limited (60-70 young people each summer) it is important to register as soon as possible. Out of these spaces, 35 are open to young people from the U.S. We fill almost all our spaces by May but sometimes there are occasions when international students are not able to obtain visas and positions open up.

To be sure of a space, send in your application and a $100 deposit as soon as you have decided. It is best to call to let us know that your application is coming.

Can I come with a friend?

The answer is yes... But, we want everyone to be adventurous, try new things and ways of being. Sometimes this can be hard with a friend along unless you both make an agreement in advance to make the most of this experience.

How long has Global Youth Village been running?

We have been offering global living experiences for teenagers since 1979 -- 28 years!
Go to the WHO WE ARE section to learn more about us and our parent organization.

What are the facilities and climate like?

The Global Youth Village is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Legacy's eighty acres of lush woodlands provide a peaceful and safe natural setting. Hiking trails, streams, a pond, organic flower and vegetable gardens foster new relationships with nature.

Up to ten young people share a wood frame cabin with an adult staff member. Bathrooms and showers are centrally located near the cabins in the girls' and boys' areas.

Program facilities include art studios, pottery and ceramics shop, air-conditioned workshop areas, a store, dining hall, outdoor stage, big top tent, health house, basketball court, soccer field, volleyball/badminton court, table tennis, swimming pool, sites for rock climbing instruction, and fire circles. An outdoor stage provides a nice setting for evening programs and games.

Temperatures can range form 62 degrees F to 103 degrees F during the day (17 degrees Celsius at night to 40 degrees Celsius during the day).

Can you describe cabin life?

The cabin serves as a "home away from home" for eight to 10 young people and a staff member. Cabin groups are carefully mixed and girls and boys cabins are completely separate. In your cabin, there may be as many as five different cultures. The cabin is a place to relax. There is laughter, storytelling, and also much needed sleep. You will always remember your cabin group.

What beliefs and religions are practiced at GYV?

There is a wide range of faiths practiced here. Bahai, Buddhist, catholic, Christian, Hindu, Jain, Jewish, Muslim, Mormon, Native American, Quaker, Shinto and other faiths are regularly represented. People are encouraged to do their spiritual or religious practices that are part of their regular routine. There is a special room set aside for prayers, meditation, and reflection. On Friday evenings, Shabbath is observed. On Sundays, church trips for those who regularly attend services are arranged.

FOOD - OUR FANTASTIC VEGETARIAN CUISINE

The Global Youth Village has an international cuisine that provides yet another venue for cultural exploration. The diet is primarily vegetarian. Meals are served "family style" in our dining hall. International dishes are prepared with natural foods and whole grains, with special attention given to the cultural tastes on campus. A chicken dish is served twice a session. Legacy can also accommodate special dietary needs.

Through this dining experience participants:

· explore variety and new foods from around the world
· become flexible and open to new experiences
· learn about better nutrition and balanced diets
· discover what eating low on the food chain entails

Below is a sample of what foods to expect during the course of your stay:

Are there any extra expenses beyond the tuition?

Yes, families should be prepared to incur some other expenses, such as travel to and from our program site. In the spring, we send a list of recommended clothing and it is the responsibility of each family to make sure that the participant comes properly equipped. We recommend that youths come with a limited amount of spending money for snacks, film, tee shirts, and Village photo from our store - $75 is standard.

 

 

 

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