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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.
Founding Forward SLiPP students looking at a map
Teacher conversing with students
Founding Forward students posing for a photo in front of a building.

Live, learn, lead!

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:

SLiPP policy tracks

Choose the track that best aligns with your education, career goals, and interests:
Founding Forward students working in a warehouse

Health Care Policy

The intersection of health care, public health, and policy has become one of the most dynamic debates, covering everything from preventative medicine to substance use.

Students will visit a local hospital and learn about the challenges faced by doctors, nurses, and administrators as they address and examine the health issues dominating public consciousness and how they play a role in creating effective constitutional health policies.

Through the Public Health Policy track, participants will develop perspectives to pursue a career in medicine, pharma, or healthcare administration.

Founding Forward student sitting at a judges bench holding a gavel

Legal Policy

Many of the critical issues facing our society – including criminal justice, immigration, policing, and veterans affairs – revolve around legal policy.

An attorney from the Pennsylvania Bar Association will lead an examination of public policy issues. Participants will meet with experts in the field to understand their service-learning experience and to develop a plan that effects positive policy change.

After the immersive, week-long experience, students will be better prepared to make a difference through a career in law, criminal justice, or a related field.

Founding Forward students posing in a broadcast studio

Media and Communications

Media has undergone a transformation and remains a vital function in democracy as it continues to evolve with rapidly changing technology. Journalists and communicators have a responsibility to inform our society and continue the exchange of ideas that shape policy and public opinion.

During the day of service, participants will travel off-site to explore public policy issues that impact communities, democracy, and civic life.

The insights gained from the program support transparent, trusted, and meaningful communication in preparation for a career in media, public relations, or communications.

Students presenting at a SLiPP event
Students listening to a speaker at a podium
Students posing in front of a Founding Forward banner
Students posing for a photo

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

I learned more about myself and our country in these six days than I have in my years of history classes.
Havalah
Service Learning in Public Policy participant
This was truly a chance for me to grow as a leader, a citizen, and a person. I will forever treasure this experience. I will now go forward with great vigor and determination in my endeavors.
Hailey
Service Learning in Public Policy participant
I’ve learned so many things about being a good citizen that I’m able to implement in my life at home. I will make sure to use what I learned to improve my school, my community, and my country.
Josh
Service Learning in Public Policy participant

FAQs

Read our FAQ’s below or email us at education@foundingforward.org with additional questions.

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.

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

Help us inspire tomorrow’s leaders

Founding Forward’s work and mission is made possible through voluntary contributions. We need your support to ensure a future rooted in liberty. Please join our efforts to uphold our democratic system of government with your tax-deductible contribution.