In order to prepare spiritually, mentally, and physically for the trip to Quito, Ecuador, there are mandatory biweekly meetings on Mondays prior to leaving. Included in the mandatory schedule is a retreat the weekend of November 9 – 11 and a Reflection Day on Saturday, February 2, 2012, from 10 am – 5 pm.
These meetings are mandatory: all participants are expected to attend all meetings in their entirety. This preparation becomes important not only for your own personal preparation for the trip but also for the development and trust of community. If you are not able to attend every meeting in their entirety, then you are advised not to apply.
Each individual is responsible for raising a minimum of $1400 for the cost of the trip. The first down-payment of $900 is due on October 10, 2012. These funds will be used to pay for airfare. The rest of the amount, $500, is due by December 3, 2012. Individuals are expected to do their own fund-raising. There are no organized group fund-raising opportunities. If you are unable to raise the $1400 then you are asked to reconsider your involvement on this trip. This trip is fully funded by student fund-raising; there is no scholarship or financial aid available.
By signing the Statement of Intent during the first meeting, all participants are expected to follow through with the financial commitment as well as the mandatory meeting/retreat preparations for the trip, with no exceptions.