The underlying philosophy at Longacre is growth through challenge. Each summer, 72 teenagers learn to take responsibility for the community. It is through this framework that the teenagers develop their leadership skills.

Students choose their activities every day. Mornings are generally reserved for work, afternoons for play. Learn carpentry and construction, care for animals or do wonderful community service projects. Take outdoor adventure trips: go rock climbing, mountain biking, backpacking and rafting. Help run a 200-acre farm, growing organic vegetables, driving tractors, collecting bales of hay and riding horses. Put on children's theater or build homes with Habitat for Humanity. Support threatened species like brown bats, monarch butterflies and American Chestnut trees. Learn stained glass and ceramics in our eco-friendly art studio. Paint murals and learn other hands on, real life skills.

Every day, we carve out time for rest and relaxation, taking a nap, playing cards, reading, writing, roller skating, bowling, going out for ice cream, going to the movies, or going to Hersheypark.

Make great friends. Live in the moment. Be part of a community that promotes respect and acceptance, with emphases on group dynamics and communications skills.