Robert Welch University summer camps: passing the torch of liberty. (At a Glance).

When America was founded, our country was steeped in a culture of religious faith, self-reliance, and limited government. The Founding Fathers, proclaiming that rights came from God rather than from any manmade source, created a constitutional republic with limited, carefully defined powers. They did not see the need for high taxes or big government, because they believed that Americans were capable of governing themselves.

Unfortunately, many precious facets of America's political, cultural, and religious heritage--what is called "Americanism"--have been seriously eroded or lost altogether. At school and in the media, children are taught to embrace a system of values completely at odds with America's heritage. They are told to reject traditional morality and Western culture, and to accept the twisted teachings of the modern-day anti-American counterculture. Seldom do our youth hear the principles of Americanism mentioned, except with scorn.

Many thousands of Americans have discovered a most effective tool for restoring Americanist principles, the three-decade-old summer youth program offered by Robert Welch University (RWU), an affiliate of The John Birch Society. Time and again, those attending the weeklong RWU summer camps have declared: "I learned more about the government, my heritage, and what is REALLY going on in America and the world, in six days of camp than in all my years of school."

And what a great way to learn! Students learn about the United States Constitution, American history, and other selected Americanist topics, while enjoying the great American outdoors at camp facilities chosen for their scenic locations. Besides classes, campers are encouraged to participate in activities including boating, hiking, and volley ball. Campers are also encouraged to share their talents.

Campers at RWU summer camps come from many educational backgrounds, and include both home schoolers and public school students. Ranging from 14 to 19 years old, many students return to camp year after year. The overall number of students participating in our summer camp programs has steadily grown for the past five years, with home-schooled students in particular helping to swell the ranks. Whatever their educational and religious background, RWU campers come mostly from families where morality, faith, and a proper education are highly valued.

As young Americans learn the principles of self-government, and discover historical heroes previously hidden from their view, they begin to appreciate the wonderful gift our forefathers passed to us. Add the excitement of the outdoors--and the incomparable friendship of quality young men and women--and campers are in for a truly unique experience. RWU camps provide a host of sporting activities for all tastes, such as wilderness hikes, swimming, and boating. Other activities include (depending on the camp) cave touring, white-water rafting, rope courses, and horseback riding. The end result is a weeklong educational and outdoor adventure that campers will never forget.

Not surprisingly, the best sales agents for the summer camp program are former campers, who return again and again, and bring their friends. Campers return home with great stories, fond memories, and a new confidence in their understanding of our history, government, and heritage that will serve them--and their nation--for a lifetime.

The friendships made to camp may last a long time as well. Campers meet kindred spirits with like desires and plans for the future, who may permanently enrich their lives. More than a few tears are shed by campers as they part as week's end. And many can hardly wait to come back next summer, for another week of the finest education in American heritage available.

www.robertwelchuniveristy.org * 920-749-3788