Service Learning in Public Policy

Service Learning in Public Policy (SLiPP) is an advanced leadership development workshop for exceptional high school students eager to become catalysts for change.

Live, Learn, Lead!

Now accepting applications for our 2024 SLIPP program!

Program Date: August 3-8, 2025

SLiPP benefits extend beyond the program as you gain new perspectives, refine your critical thinking skills, and amplify your actions and intentions as a citizen. Become more engaged and purposeful in pursuing your interest in areas of study such as law, government, politics, media and communications, and healthcare.

You can also obtain a competitive edge in the college admission process through advanced tutorials on application preparation, persuasive writing, leadership development, interview skills, and the opportunity to meet directly with college admissions counselors.

Application Requirements

All interested students are invited to attend the program. Selections are based on the following criteria:

Students entering 9th, 10th, or 11th grade who show leadership potential

Motivated learners with strong academics

Committed to service in their community

What To Expect

During their week at our Valley Forge campus, students will gain first-hand experience and broaden their perspectives through:

Meaningful service-learning opportunities
Public policy courses and discussions.
Leadership development and communications workshops.
Interactions with their peers.
Presentations and meetings with college admissions representatives. Past participating schools have included Jefferson University, Villanova University, Temple University, Saint Joseph’s University, the Templeton Honors College at Eastern University, Drexel University, and Penn State University.

SLiPP Policy Tracks

Choose the track that best aligns with your education, career goals, and interests:

Gain an edge for college admissions

The college admissions process is competitive and complex. SLiPP participation includes the service-learning experience many colleges value. Part of the program includes the discussion of applying to schools, scholarships, and personal essay writing and interviewing skills.

What our students are saying

At SLiPP, I learned many valuable leadership skills that I am able to take with me into my college years. SLiPP also showed me the importance of serving your community as a way to give back to those who have helped you.

Kaycee C.

Student

FAQs

For more information, please email education@foundingforward.org.

How much does this program cost and what is included?

The cost of the program is $1,150 which includes lectures, room and board, all meals, site visits, program materials, and a program t-shirt. The program will allow students to explore policy in service of addressing issues in our society on the local, state, and national levels.

Is financial assistance available?

Accepted Service Learning in Public Policy students are eligible for full sponsorships provided by our partners. Please contact us for more information.

What are the sleeping arrangements?

Founding Forward’s private, secluded 75-acre campus has three dormitory buildings. Rooms can sleep two, three, four, or five students, and all rooms have either a private bathroom or a Jack & Jill bathroom. Bedding, pillows, and towels are included.

Can the building accommodate my needs?

Though the campus was built in the 1960s and 70s, every building has a ramp entrance, and we have rooms that can accommodate various needs. Our tour buses have handicap and wheelchair entrances. Some historical sites may not be ADA accessible.

What should students pack?

We suggest the following: comfortable clothes; one pair of walking shoes; weather-appropriate gear; dress/formal outfit for presentation and banquet; charge cord for phone, and spending money.

We also ask that you consider your study track (legal, education, or public health) and think about what you might need to wear during service work in this field.

Will students have free time?

Students’ experience will be filled with exciting content balanced with free time with their peers. Our campus includes an indoor game room, outdoor basketball, and volleyball courts, and plenty of open space for pickup games.

How much physical activity is involved?

There is a moderate amount of walking on our campus and at historic sites.

How much money should students bring?

Since this is an all-inclusive journey, there are only two real reasons for students to bring money: souvenirs and snacks. Everything else, including all meals, is included.

What if students miss games and practice?

This is a once-in-a-lifetime educational opportunity, and as such, we ask parents and students to weigh it next to other commitments like sports and work. If possible, it is always helpful when the school administration alerts coaches of impending class travel, giving them adequate time to adjust schedules.

What are Founding Forward’s cancellation and refund policies?

Founding Forward reserves the right to cancel a program due to weather emergency, low attendance, or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. Should Founding Forward cancel a program, full refunds will be made to all clients by the method the client originally paid. Please allow up to 30 days for refunds to be processed.

We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment.

Cancellations made by the client must be received in writing at education@ffvf.org.

Cancellations made prior to 30 days before the start of a program will receive a full refund less the non-refundable deposit (variable by program) and any non-refundable expenses. Refunds will be issued in the same form payment was made. Please allow 30 days for refunds to be processed.

Cancellations made 30 days or less before the start of a program are subject to a Founding Forward credit less the deposit and any non-refundable expenses (such as tickets or meals) that cannot be refunded, credited, or transferred.

Cancellations made less than 48 business hours before departure will receive no refund, credit, or transfer.

Sacramento Volunteer Chapter Donations

Donations of any amount help us fulfill our mission and send teachers and students to attend civic education programs at Founding Forward.