Rise Above & Compass Path

Who am I? Where do I belong? What is my purpose?

These three questions lie at the center of who we are. Yet they often go unanswered.

In partnership with the Rise Above Foundation, Compass Path invites you to explore, learn, and serve on a journey to more profound passion and a sense of purpose.

Beginning in August, you and a group of peers will embark on a wilderness adventure, a leadership retreat, and travel to Iceland for a week of service and sightseeing. These three unique expeditions — one in August, the second in January, and culminating with a trip to Iceland in summer 2023 — will empower you to grow as a leader and further the discernment of your future.

More about the Compass Path:

WILDERNESS EXPEDITION

You’ll embark on a five-day wilderness adventure in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. You’ll grow in team-building, problem-solving, and confidence through a high ropes course, canoeing, and a mountain climb.


LEADERSHIP EXPEDITION

During the winter, we’ll spend a weekend at a retreat center exploring concepts of leadership and self-development. You’ll hear from leaders in multiple fields, reflect on your journey, and delve into a deeper understanding of what it means to lead with the power of your story.

SERVICE EXPEDITION

Finally, you get to implement your ideas for making justice and change a reality. Compass Path culminates with a trip to Iceland in 2023, where you’ll serve alongside local leaders working to bring hope and compassion while embracing their incredible culture. In addition to a week of service, you’ll tour Iceland's stunning vistas and culture.

COMPASS PATH SCHEDULE

FAQ

  • This trip is open to any young adult (ages 18-23) who is still receiving DCF services.

  • The entire experience is free to accepted participants. However, a single deposit of $75 will be due upon acceptance. You will receive this deposit back in $25 intervals at the completion of each expedition (Wilderness, Leadership, Service).

  • Yes, this trip is specifically for those who are committed to journeying through all three components (Wilderness, Leadership, Service) over the course of a year.

  • You do not need an updated passport in order to apply but WILL need it for the Iceland portion. If accepted you’ll have more than a year to get the passport, but we encourage you to begin this process early.

  • This trip is open to any participant currently residing in the state of Massachusetts. In addition to fellow young adults, you’ll be joined by leaders from the Rise Above Foundation and Compass staff.

  • Unfortunately, at this time the trip is only open to those who will be 18 years old as of July 1, 2022.

  • To register for the trip, you’ll need to complete the brief inquiry form below. After that a member of the Rise Above leadership will be in touch to schedule a brief Zoom interview.

  • Applications for the 2022-2023 program are due by June 1, 2022.

  • This experience is open to all faith or non-faith backgrounds. Non-affiliated reflection and contemplation are an integral part of personal growth and will be present throughout this experience. But faith practices or backgrounds are not required of any participants.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to international travel regulations and out of respect and safety concerns for those to whom we minister, full COVID-19 vaccination is required for participation in this program. Proof of vaccination will be required as part of your application.