Read the Latest COVID-19 Message from AARBF | Diversity Equity and Inclusion Policy and Plan

Young Adult Summit

Home » Project » Young Adult Summit

The Young Adult Summit is a weekend long retreat for burn survivors between the ages of 16 to 20. Each Presidents’ Day weekend, since 1997, approximately 25 burn survivors have gathered at Ocean Pines in Cambria, California to share their stories and strength.

The Young Adult Summit was created to meet the unique challenges associated with growing up with burns. All teens must navigate high school, adopt a sense of independence, and changing roles. The Young Adult Summit is for teens who deal with these issues in addition to their healing. Workshops and exercises engage teens in life skill lessons, team building, and networking. Each burn survivor gains tools, new knowledge, and an opportunity to continue the friendships created at Champ Camp.

The Young Adult Summit is also the first step for young adults who want to participate in the Champ Camp Counselor in Training Program (CIT).

The Young Adult Summit begins on Friday and continues until Monday afternoon. All meals are provided. A $35 per person fee may be required for this event. The weekend is fully staffed with AARBF personnel and fully screened volunteers.

Packing List:

  • Sleeping bag and pillow
  • WARM and comfortable clothes (4 days, 3 nights)
  • Jacket
  • Rain gear (umbrella, poncho)
  • Bath towel
  • Flashlight
  • Comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, possibly in dirt & mud
  • Personal hygiene items (tooth paste and brush, deodorant, shampoo)
  • ID (Either government issued or school)
  • Formal dinner attire:
    • Ladies: Please pack your favorite outfit for a formal event such as a homecoming dress, cocktail dress, or suit.
    • Gentlemen: Please wear tie, collared shirt and nice slacks.

Transportation:

Transportation will be provided from various locations in California. AARBF staff will work with you to arrange your pick-up and drop-off address once we receive your completed application.

Registration is now open!

2021 Virtual Young Adult Summit

February 19-21 2021

*Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation has decided to convert Young Adult Summit 2021 into a virtual program. This years program will be broken into three parts: 1. Camp in the Box 2. Live Zoom meetings 3. Prerecorded videos released daily Feb 19th, 20th, 21st.

2021 Virtual Content

For more information, please contact Scott “Scooter” Wertz at swertz@aarbf.org or 415-495-7223 Ext. 19