Operated by an award-winning arts organization, the nonprofit Songs of Hope project intentionally recruits participants from many countries worldwide, and mixes them with U.S. campers. Living together, Songs of Hope participants learn about each other’s countries and cultures through a dynamic program of daily activities, games, living experiences, and cultural outings, while preparing their concert of international songs, dances, movement, and percussion.

New participants must be 9-13 years old and should love singing and performing. Campers may return up to age 16. They arrive as strangers but soon find themselves living, playing, and learning together in a closely-knit, supportive community. During the first three weeks, participants are in daily rehearsals, led by an experienced staff of professional artists. In the project’s final three weeks, they take their nationally recognized concert tour throughout Minnesota and into neighboring states, delighting audiences with their joyous celebration of world cultures.

Now in its twentieth-first year, Songs of Hope is housed on a beautiful college campus in the culturally vibrant Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area. Campers live in dorm suites with roommates from different countries. The lessons learned during their six weeks together are profound. The friendships are enduring. And the stories are inspirational. Songs of Hope is a transformational experience.