What We Do and How We Do It.
Our Mission
Our mission is to develop and empower leaders through meaningful connections and transformative experiences.
Our programs are designed with three-key educational theories in mind in support of extending the NJ Dept of Education’s Career Readiness, Life Literacies, and Key Skills learning standards through summer programming.
Experiential Learning
Inspired by David Kolb's approach, we believe in 'learning by doing.' We create immersive environments for real-life experiences, enabling students to acquire vital career readiness and life skills. This iterative learning process fosters growth and drives transformative learning outcomes.
The Kolb Learning Style Inventory 4.0” by David Kolb (MA, PhD Harvard)Challenge & Support
We use a balanced approach that promotes resilience and adaptability. Students are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, while a supportive environment ensures optimal personal and academic growth. This blend fosters a nurturing setting for developing future leaders.
Patton, L. D., Renn, K. A., Guido, F. M., & Quaye, S. J. (2016). Student development in college: Theory, research, and practice (3rd ed.). Jossey-Bass/WileySocial Emotional Learning (SEL)
Incorporating the 'Whole Child' approach, our programs prioritize both academic and emotional competencies. SEL cultivates empathetic, socially aware leaders with the skills to manage emotions, build relationships, and make responsible decisions.
Michael Nettles, Educational Testing Service's Senior Vice President and multi-time Salzburg Global Fellow Why the ‘Whole Child’ MattersOur Values
As a non-profit organization, volunteer board of directors and advisors, and contributing individuals, we hold the following beliefs:
HANDS-ON LEARNING
SERVICE LEADERSHIP
EMPOWERMENT
DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
Bridging Theory and Practice
Our immersive programming utilizes simulations, scenarios, storytelling, and audio/visual designs to create engaging and experiential learning opportunities. By bridging theory and practice, we make education come alive, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.
Leadership Through Acts of Service
Our faculty leads by example, prioritizing the well-being of others. Embodying "leadership of youth, by youth," we empower young individuals through service opportunities, fostering a culture of empathy, humility, and dedicated upliftment.
Discovering and Fulfilling Your Purpose
We believe in inspiring individuals to discover their unique purpose and providing them with the confidence to live fulfilling lives. Through our programs, students are encouraged to explore their passions, talents, and interests, guiding them toward self-realization and personal growth.
Embodying the Full Spectrum of Leadership
We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment that confronts historical disparities in leadership opportunities. We ensure everyone has an equal chance to contribute, learn, and grow. We place accountability at the heart of our work, nurturing honest dialogues, admitting our missteps, and advocating for others. These principles help us uplift diverse leaders as role models. Through creating inclusive spaces, we foster connections and ensure everyone sees themselves reflected in our leadership.
EMPATHY
CONNECTION
GROWTH
Understanding and Valuing Others
Cultivating empathy lies at the core of our values. We encourage our staff and students to understand and value the experiences of others, fostering a supportive and respectful environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and appreciated.
Lifelong Friendships and Role Models
Relationships are at the core of our community. We believe in the power of networking, mentorship, and shared experiences to open doors to valuable opportunities and insights. Through TORCH, students forge lifelong friendships, develop relationships with role models, and build meaningful connections with peers and mentors, providing inspiration for their personal and leadership journeys.
Challenge by Choice
We embrace growth as a personal journey and encourage everyone to find their own paths, controlling the amount of discomfort or effort they choose to take on. We provide a platform for personal growth and development, encouraging individuals to challenge themselves, embrace continuous learning, and chart their unique journey of self-improvement and evolution.
