First, it engages young people in an international living experience. Songs of Hope campers are recruited from countries worldwide. In their residential community, they learn about each other’s countries, lives, and cultures through a dynamic program of daily activities, fun games, personal living experiences, and varied cultural outings.

Second, Songs of Hope is a serious music project. Led by a staff of working professional musicians, the international campers prepare a concert of songs, dances, and percussion from countries worldwide. After three weeks of intensive rehearsals, they take their nationally recognized concert tour throughout Minnesota and into neighboring states, delighting audiences with their joyous celebration of world cultures.

New participants must be 10-13 years old and they 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, global community.

Now in its eighteenth 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. To learn why, please explore our website, where you can see and hear for yourselves through many videos, photos, written testimonials, and other materials.