Camp Common Home

A Summer Experience for Ecological LeadershipJuly 13 – 17, 2026 | Barry University

Camp Common Home is a transformative, weeklong summer experience for high school students who are ready to explore environmental challenges, grow as leaders, and take meaningful action for our world. Rooted in the principles of integral ecology, the camp connects science, social justice, spirituality, and leadership to inspire the next generation of changemakers.

Through hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, and guided reflection, students discover how caring for the Earth is deeply connected to caring for one another: our shared “common home.”

Camp Common Home Logo
Laudato Si Logo

Camp Common Home Experience

At Camp Common Home, learning goes far beyond the classroom. Each day is filled with immersive, real-world experiences that connect youth directly with environmental issues and the people working to address them.

Campers will:

  • Test water quality in local waterways
  • Join a shark tagging expedition with marine scientists
  • Visit an Everglades restoration site
  • Explore ethical food systems like chocolate and coffee production
  • Learn composting, recycling, and sustainable living practices
  • Meet community leaders, scientists, and environmental advocates
  • Engage in eco-art and creative expression

These experiences help campers see how environmental challenges and solutions unfold in real time.

A Unique Approach: Integral Ecology

Camp Common Home is grounded in integral ecology, a holistic framework that recognizes the deep connections between environmental, social, economic, and cultural systems.

Guided by the vision of Laudato Si’, the camp explores:

  • Care for the Earth and natural ecosystems
  • Justice for vulnerable communities
  • Sustainable economic practices
  • Ecological education and lifestyle choices
  • Spiritual reflection and personal purpose
  • Community engagement and action

This approach helps students understand not only what is happening in our world—but how they can be part of meaningful solutions.

Integral Ecology

Signature Learning Experiences

Campers engage with leading organizations and experts across South Florida through powerful, hands-on learning opportunities:

  • Water & Ocean Conservation: Monitor water quality and explore marine ecosystems through field-based science
  • Shark Research Expedition: Work alongside marine biologists to study and protect ocean biodiversity
  • Everglades Restoration: Learn how one of the world’s most important ecosystems is being preserved
  • Environmental Justice & Food Systems: Engage with advocates working for farmworker rights and equitable food systems
  • Sustainable Living Practices: Explore composting, recycling, and circular waste systems
  • Policy & Advocacy: Meet leaders shaping environmental policy and learn how to raise your voice
  • Eco-Art & Creative Expression: Create collaborative art using recycled materials to inspire change

Each experience connects scientific knowledge with ethical reflection and real-world impact.

Leadership Development

Camp Common Home is designed to help high-school youth grow, not just in knowledge, but in confidence, purpose, and leadership.

Participants leave with:

  • Leadership skills to create real change
  • A deeper understanding of environmental justice
  • Hands-on scientific and outdoor experience
  • Meaningful friendships and community connections
  • Mentorship from scientists, activists, and faith leaders
  • A stronger sense of purpose and connection to the world

Who Should Apply

Camp Common Home is open to high school students (incoming 9th grade through graduating seniors) who are:

  • Curious about the environment
  • Passionate about social justice
  • Interested in science, leadership, or advocacy
  • Ready to make a difference in their communities

Cost & Scholarships

The registration fee is $250, which includes:

  • All meals
  • Field experiences and excursions
  • Program materials
  • Full participation in all camp activities

Thanks to generous support, scholarships are available to ensure that all students have access to this experience.

Application

Applications are currently be accepted and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Limited spots available!

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