Generation Peace Academy Handbook 2012 - 2013

pg4 Overview of Generation Peace Academy

pg8 GPA Staff job descriptions

pg14 GPA Workshops

pg18 Leadership Initiative Module

pg21 Fundraising Module

pg27 International Service Module

pg30 Team Leader Training 3

Overview pages 4-7 4

OVERVIEW OF GENERATION PEACE ACADEMY

Vision Statement

Generation Peace Academy is the premier educational leadership training program for Blessed Children graduating from High School.

Program Overview Based on the inspiration and leadership which In Jin Nim is providing to America, Generation Peace Academy (GPA) is a comprehensive one-year program which includes Outreach, Lovin’ Life Ministry experience, International Service Projects, and Fund raising, with ongoing opportunities for training in public speaking and written expression.

In the formative years after high school, GPA helps young adults find a direction and purpose in life, gives them a taste of adventure and fun with other Blessed Children providing a solid founda- tion of internal and external excellence to succeed in the years to come.

GPA is a premiere educational tool for our youth to successfully transition from high school to college or university. GPA provides support as our youth learn to embrace healthy spiritual, emo- tional, intellectual and physical experiences.

GPA is based on a trimester system, as participants rotate through three 2 ½ month modules in the course of their year. Each module has its own workshops and education. Included in the year, we have 4 opportunities when all GPA participants are gathered together: the Kickoff Workshop (14 day), First Inter-Module Workshop (5 days), Second Inter-Module Workshop (5 days) and Conclusion / Graduation (7 days).

Lovin’ Life Leadership Initiative Based out of the 43rd St. Learning Center in NY City, participants are exposed to the different aspects of Lovin’ Life Ministries, they learn how to outreach, create and run programs, etc. Most significantly this is a priceless opportunity to engage in a lot of interaction with the True Family!

Fund raising Training A proven great way to develop character (self discipline, confidence, focus, consistency, resilience) and gain life skills in relationships, goal setting, and application of the Principle. Most of all, fund raising training provides a very direct way to understand the heart of God and connect to True Parents’ course and the course of the 1st Generation.

International Service Experience What better way to deepen hearts and broaden horizons than to live and serve in a developing country. The challenge and adventure of overseas service can be a formative life changing experi- ence for young people, and instill a deep desire to make a difference in the world.

Throughout the entire program GPA provides opportunities for academic enhancement. Mastery of language is an essential leadership skill, and if we really want to make an impact in the world we need to become the best at everything we do: college, university, career, etc. GPA is aiming towards becoming a program that in the near future will be able to provide college credit for par- ticipation. GPA’s learning objectives for participants

•Develop a personal relationship with God as our Heavenly Parent o Gain an understanding of being loved by God, as a child of God, and of belonging to a community o Be proud to be a Unificationist

•Develop a personal relationship with True Parents and True Children. o Fall in love with True Parents, understand what they have done for you o Understand True Children’s course and develop a personal relationship with them

• Inherit the culture and heart of attendance.

•Develop a deeper understanding of the Principle and its application to daily life.

Educational Track GPA is striving to standardize the educational track for its members. Regardless of which module they begin with, the education will be consistent, just applied to different areas. Each rotation to a new module marks the beginning of a more mature spirituality; therefore the guidance will also rise in level equally in each module. Morning service check lists and lecture topics are provided to each Team Leader so that there is no omission of knowledge, yet there is room to gauge the situa- tion of the team and work within those guidelines.

The first level of education within each module, the formation stage, is focused on building a sense of love within each individual. The goal for each participant is that they feel loved by God and by True Parents and their own parents. They begin by building trusting relationships around them, maintaining a humble attitude and an attitude for learning.

The second level, the growth stage, is centered on practicing that love toward others and them- selves, and developing good habits that can help them maintain a lifestyle of giving. That is ac- complished through developing the skill of goal setting, reflection, and being consistent.

The completion stage level of education is centered on ownership, and guiding those who are inclined towards leadership to share with others what they have learned. This means that they continue investing in themselves and each other, and are consistent in that investment in their relationship with God and True Parents. In this way, GPA cultivates those who show leadership potential and can begin to groom future team leaders.

Application Process The demographic target of GPA is all blessed children who have graduated High School. To apply to GPA there is an online application form that they can access through membership of the GPA website. General information that is included in the application form is:

-Name, address, phone number, email, marital status, passport information, medical con ditions, t-shirt size.

-Emergency contact information

-College information: all applicants are strongly encouraged to have already applied to col lege before entering GPA. They are required to present proof of having applied, through an acceptance letter, receipt for having paid deposit, etc.

-2 Recommendation letters: one from a church leader, and one from a non church leader, e.g. a school counselor, coach, employer, etc.

-2 Essays: One stating their motivation for joining GPA, and what helped influence their decision, including what they hope to accomplish on GPA. One explaining any future plans for after GPA, including college or a career track.

-We ask for proof of having graduated from High School.

-The application fee is $40 that they pay online upon completing and submitting the ap plication form.

Upon reviewing all application materials a phone interview will be carried out by core staff to determine the applicant’s level of readiness and guide them to prepare for the year. The applica- tion process typically begins 8 months before Kickoff Workshop and the deadline of Application is 2 months before Kickoff Workshop

GPA Staff Pages 8-13 8

GPA Staff Descriptions

Core Staff The core staff consists of full time paid employees under HSA-UWC. Although their job descriptions differ, they are the more specialized and necessary positions to fill within the workings of GPA.

The Director is the main central figure of the organization and is responsible for the goals, objectives and outcomes of the program. He has executive decision making power, and he is in turn responsible to the Director of Ministry Development. He oversees all aspects of the program and decides the internal and external necessities of the organization and receives reports from other staff members.

There are 3 Coordinators within the organization and each is responsible for the execution of a specific module. They become specialists of that particular module: Leadership Initiative, Fundrais- ing and International Service. Their main purpose is to manage the external aspects of each module, which includes finances, food, lodging, maintenance of equipment, schedule, etc. They also organize any workshops held within the modules that cover orientation, guidance, and logistics of the specific module.

Leadership Initiative Coordinator

The Leadership Initiative Coordinator oversees the module that is hosted at the Lovin’ Life Learning Center in New York. He/She organizes the daily schedule, acts as liaison between GPA and Lovin’ Life Ministries, contacts guest speakers needed for classes, maintains communication with the Lovin’ Life staff who host practicums, and organizes any logistics for other activities involving GPA. This includes budget, food, lodging, etc.

Fundraising Coordinator The Fundraising Coordinator is responsible for organizing area and workshops for the fundraising teams, dealing with budget, result, and general finance of the module. He/She also oversees the main- tenance of vans and other equipment, including product, GPS, etc.

International Service Coordinator The International Service Coordinator manages the service projects overseas, communicates with the staff on location, assures the service projects are supplied with equipment, that the members are provided room and board while overseas, and also organizes logistics for each country.

Group Leader Group Leaders are paired with a Coordinator for each module and manage the internal condition of the members and staff for each module. Each Group Leader has 3-5 team leaders assigned to him/her and takes care of them year round. They also rotate with their team leaders and their members through the modules. The Group Leaders are responsible for the spiritual wellbeing and growth of each individual under them in each module. They directly mentor the team leaders and guide them in leading their teams. They are also available for personal coaching of 1st year members when requested or when neces- sary. They establish the internal/spiritual curriculum for the module in collaboration with the Coordina- tor and report to the Director with any issues.

Volunteer Staff Volunteer Staff are staff members who are not paid, and they volunteer for an extra year or two. Those who do 2 years usually are in the position of Team Leader, and those who do a third year take the posi- tion of Group Leader or Counselor.

3rd Years 3rd years can take 2 different positions; either they become Group Leaders or Counselors. As a 3rd year their job descriptions differ slightly from Core Staff Group Leaders and Support Staff Counselors, due to them having less leadership experience.

As a Group Leader they are paired with a Core Staff Group Leader who guides them in their mission. They also get assigned about 3 team leaders and are responsible for them and their team members. They have the same responsibilities are the Core Staff Group Leader, but must report to them directly and not to the director.

As a 3rd year Counselor, again they have the same responsibilities as the Support Staff Counselors and are paired with one that they report to and receive guidance from.

Team Leaders Team leaders are 2nd years and are responsible for a team of 1st year members of 4 to 6 people. They manage both the external and the internal aspects of the team’s daily activities. They report to their Group Leader and are held responsible for the team’s results, activities, and spiritual wellbeing. It is a great opportunity to experience a parental heart, and a test in responsibility.

Parents Association The Parents Association is composed of volunteer parents of GPA members. It is run by the Parents Board (5-7 parents) and works through a network of Parent Representatives nationwide. Their role is to communicate with other parents who have questions or concerns regarding their children and/or the program and report back to the director through the Chairperson of the Board. Weekly conference calls take place to facilitate communication. The Board’s role is necessary for mediating between parents and the program. 10

Support Staff Support Staff are staff members who are paid part time or contractually and are not employed for the full year: counselors and the administrative team. Their roles are meant to support Core Staff and the program as a whole.

Counselors The Support Staff Counselors are generally 1st gen with IW experience. Their main role is to men- tor anyone who needs extra support, whether they are 1st years, Team Leaders, or 3rd year Group Leaders. They are sent to workshops to support, and occasionally to mobile fundraising teams or to the Leadership Initiative module.

Administrative team The Administrative Team consists of a Bookkeeper, General Affairs, Media Team, Web Designer, etc. Their role is to aid the staff in administrative work, helping maintain a website, record/ com- pile pictures and video, and help with any other little odd jobs that are necessary for the fluidity of the program.

LEADERSHIP ORGANIZATION tRUE PARENTS CHART AND iN jIN NIM

DIRECTOR of Ministry Development

Support Staff DIRECTOR Administrative Counselors Parents team Board

International Group Fund raising Group Service Leader 1 Coordinator Leader 3 Coordinator

Leadership Leadership Group Module College Leader 2 Coordinator Coordinator 12

Module Rotation

International Leadership Leadership Service College Module Module module Group 3 Group 2

Fund raising Module

GROUP LEADERS

Group LEADER

TEAM TEAM TEAM LEADER LEADER LEADER

Workshops Pages 14-20 14

GPA Workshop Descriptions There are four major workshops during the course of the GPA year where all participants are gathered in one location. The Kickoff Workshop at the start of the year, two Inter Module workshops where the Rota- tion takes place and a Conclusion / Graduation Workshop at the end of the year. Workshops are typically held in YMCA type camps where participants can spend quality time in nature and bond through sports and other fun activities.

Kick-off Workshop

Purpose The Kick-off Workshop is the first time that the whole of the GPA gathers together. It is the time in which the program is officially introduced by discussing the purpose of GPA, describing its vision and mission, and covering basic guidance and information necessary for the year. The workshop is essential for estab- lishing the culture of the program that will last during the entirety of the year. It is an important opportu- nity to guide the members in identifying their goals and motivation for being on the program. Through establishing their personal goals, they can determine what they hope to accomplish during their year on GPA.

Initial registration happens at the very beginning of the workshop. The staff is introduced and the first lectures cover basics such as the years learning objectives, rules and guidelines, code of conduct, yearly schedule, and basic internal guidance covering each module.

Description Kick-off Workshop is divided into 3 parts. The first part is more of an introduction. It leaves room for registration, icebreakers, games, and covering the most essential information for beginners as listed above. It also prepares the members for the 2nd part of Kick-off, which is fundraising. Part 2 of the workshop consists of 2 weeks of fundraising. The purpose of fundraising is to establish a culture change in the members. Through the act of giving, and being on the front line, the members come back to a workshop with a stronger foundation to receive Divine Principle education. The 3rd part of the workshop goes back to a typical workshop format for about 4 days. The members are guided into processing their fundraising experience and then geared toward preparing for the upcom- ing module. An overview of the Divine Principle is given through 3 days of lectures. Teams, groups, and modules are chosen and announced. Lectures and talks specifically about each module are given to explain the learning objectives.

Inter-Module Workshop

Purpose There are 2 Inter-Module workshops throughout the year. The purpose is to gather everyone together after their modules, help them process their experiences and prepare for the next module. It is a time for bond- ing and sharing testimonies. It is a very exciting time when brothers and sisters get to meet each other and share about how they are growing. Each workshop also covers one of two major themes and acts as either as a Blessing Workshop or a Family workshop.

The Blessing Workshop is meant to help the members understand the purpose of the Blessing, covers level 1 Blessing education, and gives them the opportunity to discuss their personal situations with a Blessed Fam- ily Ministry representative. The Family workshop is a chance for the members’ parents and families to meet with their children/sibling and share together their experiences. The GPA members give testimonies, show gratitude to their families and spend quality time together. Usually the Blessing/Family workshop lasts 3 days and then allows for a couple of days to prepare for the next module and then departure. The workshop also prepares the members for their 2 week break, ideally held after the conclusion of their 2nd module. Break helps them evaluate how far they have come and what more they need to work on during the year to improve their relationships with their families and friends.

During break they are also given the task of presenting GPA to their church community, offering a personal testimony and encouraging anyone who is thinking of participating to ask them questions. This helps pro- mote GPA to local communities in a natural way.

Description The duration of an Inter-Module Workshop is about 5 days. That allows for 3 days of Blessing/ Family work- shop and 2 days for processing the past module and preparing for the next one both internally and exter- nally. If the workshop is a Blessing workshop, representatives of the Blessing Ministry are asked to run the workshop, scheduling the lectures, breaks, discussions, and one-on-one sharings. The workshop then ends with everyone receiving a level 1 Blessing education certificate. If it is a Family Workshop, then GPA orga- nizes it, giving ample time for parents and children to talk and spend time together. It can be a very deep experience for both parties. Parents see firsthand how much their children have grown, and children express their newfound love and gratitude for their parents and their course.

Although GPA does not encourage students to engage in the matching process during their 1st or 2nd year, through the Blessing workshop they can have a clearer vision on the type of person they wish to become for their future spouse and how GPA can help them accomplish that.

Conclusion Workshop

Purpose The Conclusion Workshop has the essential task of reflecting on the year and offering to God. It is a chance for the members to reflect, offer up their experience, share with one another what they have learned and gained from the year, and express their gratitude to those who have supported them. The workshop also allows for the members to prepare for going home or for a 2nd year; to support students for college life we invite guest speakers such as a CARP representative, or GPA graduates who have gone to college to meet the group and give guidance.

Description Conclusion Workshop lasts about 8 days. Time is given again to digest their past module properly, and then begin reflecting on the full year. It is a good opportunity to show any slideshows or videos of the year to help reflection. Group outings are encouraged, also because it is the last opportunity everyone will have time to be together. Lectures and talks should be directed to guiding the members towards closure of the year and looking forward to the next step in their lives.

GPA in America, under In Jin Nim’s leadership, has organized a Commencement Gala to celebrate GPA graduates and all school graduates nationwide. The Commencement Gala is a joyous occasion in which friends and family are invited to celebrate with their graduate. The following day, a Commencement Ceremony is held to recognize each member and their accomplishment in finishing the year.

Inter-Module Workshop in gloucester, MA 2011

Leadership Module PG 18-20 18

Leadership Initiative Module The Lovin’ Life Leadership Initiative (and eventually “College”) is a program designed to equip the next generation of leaders in the Unification Church of America through the ministry model of Lovin’ Life Ministries.

The 10 week curriculum gives students the opportunity to learn and train under the national ministry team in New York City. Through focused training and practicum assignments, students will get a hands- on experience in ministry that will allow them to feel confident in multiplying it back in their own local communities.

Ministry is divided into four main areas of focus: Music, Dance, Film+Media, and Pastoral Leadership. Students are placed in one of the four areas and focus on that ministry for 10 weeks under the supervi- sion and training of a department leader. All students will complete the same core subject curriculum, including the study of our teachings. Each morning students will engage in classes in the areas of Leader- ship Training, e.g. How to take a vision to action, How to create a budget to fit your project, The art of public speaking, Going Deep: DP, Unification Thought, Building the church you want to belong to, and much more. Each student will then work with a staff member of one of the Lovin’ Life Departments, for 20 hours a week in the afternoons. They then work and learn together in an area of their interest and pas- sion, whether it be outreach, youth ministry, graphic design, journalism, photography, etc.

The goal is that graduates of this program have not only been taught how to create a successful LLM church experience, but that they have also experienced the ministry practices of Inspire, Empower, Con- nect, Contribute, and Inherit in their own lives while in the program. By living the ministry for 10 weeks, students will have the tools to bring back to their communities to help build their local churches. This incredible learning opportunity can build their resume and open up new avenues for personal develop- ment.

Participant Testimonies “Before GPA, faith was an unfamiliar thing to me. It was something that I knew nothing about. Something that I stayed away from and wanted nothing to do with. It wasn’t until my experience while witnessing at 43rd street that I was able to gain the security and confidence that I wanted and needed to make my life of faith real to myself.

I realized that before I could witness to the people out on the streets I first had to witness to myself. Even though it was scary, it was what I wanted, an op- portunity to question and discover my faith for myself.

As time went on at 43rd I got more comfortable with witnessing and more comfortable with my life of faith. My mindset before going out witnessing was much different compared to my mindset in the beginning of the year. My heart of salvation deepened so much as I understood more and more the heart of God and the signifi- cance of our church. I realized that when I was out there I wasn’t responsible for how many guests that I brought back, but that I was responsible for how much love and sincerity that I was able to share with the people that I was witnessing to. As time went on something I never imagined happened. I actually wanted to talk about what I believed in. I would go out there on the streets excited to share what I learned and to share the love that our church has to offer.” -Markus Hill, New York

“When I went witnessing, I realized it is not about meeting people, but it is about meeting God’s children. It is about reconnecting them back to God and True Parents, or like In Jin Nim would say, “We have to be beacons of lights” This is so the lights in other people will begin to shine.

I realized that as second generation we are so blessed with such beautiful characters and warm hearts. My guest would always say, “Everyone is so nice and welcoming.” I believe he felt something even deeper inside of Second Generation. I believe we are illuminating our lights a little brighter each day, because of the many opportunities we have to express and share our love with others. I am so grateful for this opportunity to experience a small portion of God’s heart. I am also grateful for the opportunity to understand the value of our True Parents a little more. I would like to thank In Jin Nim for her support and investment into Second Generation. I would also like to thank our Heavenly Parent for our True Parents. We must always remem- ber this precious gift was entrusted to us to share with others.”

-Shin ai Cox, Oregon.

“ I believe we are illuminating our lights a little brighter ev- eryday, because of the many opportunities we have to

” express and share our love with others.

Fundraising Module PG 21-26 21

Fundraising Module Explanation of purpose and objectives of fundraising Goals/Learning Objectives of Fundraising Education:

1. Experience God and True Parents’ Heart 2. Develop the “inside out” perspective 3. Personal Development: Goal setting and Character building 4. Learn and experience how to apply Principle and gain spiritual help 5. Make a positive social impact: representing God and True Parents and The Unification Church

Experience God and True Parents’ Heart −When the participants fundraise they stand in the position of the subject to the cus- tomers. They are the initiators of investment and love to the people they meet. However, many times the people will reject, persecute, or deny the fundraiser. This situation is very similar to the position and situation of God. God has been investing into humankind for countless years; however, to this day people reject and neglect God, denying His love and even His existence.

−On the other hand, fundraisers have the opportunity to experience the great joy when they find someone who responds to their love and perseverance; reflecting the immense joy Heavenly Father feels when people respond to Him.

Develop the “inside out” perspective −The Principle of “inside out” is that everything begins with us. Our internal attitudes, thoughts, concepts, and feelings are projected and reflected onto our environment and they de- termine the outcome or results of our investment. This principle becomes immediately apparent in fundraising through the reflection of the people met and the financial result generated.

−Through developing this understanding the participants are able to take more responsi- bility for the rest of the GPA year and for their future lives after GPA.

Personal Development: Goal setting and Character building −When GPA participants fundraise they are educated to create both internal and exter- nal goals that they will strive for during their experience. The internal goal is something that the members want to practice or develop, and the external goal is a personal or team amount of re- sult that they strive to achieve. Through their fundraising training we hope to have participants develop the habit of goal setting and take it with them to be successful in their college life.

−Additionally because fundraising gives us a personal reality check on our habits and character, it is a good opportunity to change and develop ourselves to have more heavenly char- acters and habits while relating to others. Some examples include: public-mindedness, humil- ity, gratitude, ability to self-reflect, challenging limitations, focus, teamwork, perseverance, and expanding their capacity to love, learning to love beyond culture or race.

Learn and experience how to apply Divine Principle and gain spiritual help Going through fundraising education GPA participants have the opportunity to apply fundamental concepts of the Divine Principle teaching, and as a result experience the activity of the spirit world in their daily lives. Through a better understanding and practice they become able to gain subjectivity and gain help from spirit world to achieve their goals and effect their environ- ment, which can be used in great application in their lives after GPA.

Make a positive social impact: representing God, True Parents, and The Unification Church In trying to improve the public view of our movement, GPA members have the opportu- nity and responsibility to represent the beautiful values and culture that True Parents have given to us. Meeting hundreds of people everyday, participants can have a large impact on the negative concepts that people have towards the Unification Church.

Fundraisers can hand out business cards or brochures and help people be informed through our website. It is not uncommon to receive feedback from people such as these:

−“I would like to say I was impressed with the young lady who represented your organiza- tion today. She inspired me, and I am so glad my daughter was able to see how she was out in the cold weather supporting this organization. It re-enforces the things she is learning at her Chris- tian School…Thank you Miyuki Maeda…keep smiling, and remember to stay warm…(smile)!!!”

-Sally McNealyClavell, Dec’ 13th

−“Your representative, Yeri McClain of Ohio deserves special recognition for gracious pa- tience as she carried out her mission today. Miss McClean was in Kingstown, Virginia this morn- ing soliciting donations as she approached my car. Her joyful exuberance was contagious and effective in securing a modest contribution.” -Duane Barnhart, Oct’ 3rd

Participant Testimonies “For the past three days my goal has been ‘to be a person that God can work through’, and this morning I felt that God gave me the perfect opportunity to practice this. I fundraised to a woman who willingly offered for 2 sun catchers. Right before handing me the check she asked me what church I belonged to and I proudly told her I be- longed to the Unification Church. She immediately pulled the check away and told me that she absolutely would not support our church. At that moment I wanted to be able to love her and understand but I could only feel anger inside. As I was walking away, I remembered the four golden rules; how no matter what kind of situation I was in, I was in the Abel position, and as her Abel, I had to love her, not for my sake but for God. By doing this I felt I could let go of any bad feelings for this woman and instead pray for her.

After changing my attitude, I also remembered something my captains always told me to do. In any difficult situation, relate it to what True Parents have gone through. As I connected my situation to True Parents, I realized how much more persecution they have gone through and how they still had to love these people under any situation. Sur- prisingly only a few minutes later the same woman came running after me and told me that God told her that she couldn’t let me walk away like that, that’s why she was going to give me the opportunity to explain our church. By this time I was already crying but through my tears I strongly explained to her how we believe that the Messiah is here now and his only thought is helping God. I told her that we believe in creating ideal families and the importance of loving all people. Her attitude and heart completely changed and she told me that she had the wrong impression of our church: that she was glad to know the truth. She then handed me back the check, I could see important it was to love unconditionally and I am really glad that God could give me this opportu- nity to represent True Parents.”

– Lily Sprague, New Jersey

Fundraising in parking lot is extremely tough! I began to question myself: “is my cap- tain just trying to make me suffer? Is this year all about suffering?” But I connected to something deeper when I could meet people and discuss things with people on a more personal level. A lot of the time we are tuning out God… What God has to say or show me is a lot more important than what I have to say… I caught this woman as she was running to her car; I told her how our program focuses on God and building our relationship with God. This lady opened up and shared to me how she found God after being forced to be in an insane asylum for having a spiritual experience. She shared about God’s love and His heart. The love that came through my heart for her was so kind, and as I felt God speak to me through this woman I knew that this was exactly what God wanted to tell me: “Your heart is so tender child, and you have such a bright future ahead of you.”

Fundraising is really about connecting to God and to that person through listen- ing, what I needed to do most was listen, and find God in people.

Another woman I approached was complaining to me about the lack of respect for elders these days, her son cut off connection with her. Our encounter literally ended up with her sobbing on my shoulder: “You are so loved by God and God has taken so much care of you”. And I tried to share to her that God was alive within her, and He has felt so much more pain than her throughout His course.

I always ask God to prepare the people so I can love them without limits. God really does work through the most unexpected situations and God never gives you anything you can’t handle.

– Hanna Rischl, Colorado

Structure and Organization of the Fundraising Module 1.Team Structure 2.Daily Schedule/fundraising condition schedule 3.Fundraising Workshops

Team Structure −The best or ideal team structure is to have 4 members and 1 team leader. The smaller the team, the easier it is for the team leader to manage and take care of the team.

−Depending on the situation you can either make the teams either one gender or mixed with brothers and sisters. (situations of sleeping in a van, or the amount of brothers and sisters on the program can affect the way the team is built)

−Teams can be mobile or center based. Mobile means that they will travel and sleep in the van, or a Blessed Families’ home or Church Center. On the other hand, center based teams stay at a local Church Center and go out each day from there.

−The benefits of being mobile are that it is much easier for the Team Leader to create a focused and effective spirit on the team. Meanwhile, center based teams are able to interact with other Blessed families and church communities which can be a valuable experience for GPA partici- pants and the community!

Daily Schedule/fundraising condition schedule −The daily schedule will vary based upon what type, or how advanced a condition of fundrais- ing is. A regular condition of fundraising will look something like this:

6 am wake up 6:30 HDH / exercise and stretching 7:30 Breakfast 8:30 Singing, Morning Service and Prayer 9:30 First Fundraising (FR) run 12:00 Pick up and lunch 1:00 Second FR run 3:00 Pick up 3:30 Third FR run 5:30 Pick up and dinner 7:00 Blitz (short evening FR run) 8:00 Pick up, study time, reflection, counting money 10:00 Closing meeting 11:00 Lights out, 7 hours sleep

−Conditions of fundraising can either be more or less intense than the schedule above. How ever GPA participants never fundraise past 11 pm or before 7am. It is good to use a lighter condition to ease participants into fundraising, and a heavier condition to push people to give their best.

−We have Precondition periods in which fundraising is lighter and members have time to reflect.

−More intense/focused periods are referred to as Super Challenge, and the most intense period which includes a point system and prizes is called Competition.

Fundraising Workshops - There are a total of 3 conditions in the fundraising module. One condition of regular fund raising, one condition of super challenge, and one condition of completion which is usually around 21days.

- In between each of the fundraising conditions is a small workshop to give the members a chance to reflect and process the previous condition, share the vision and goals of the upcom ing condition, and help prepare internally and externally for the next condition (new teams, tproduct, internal guidance and morning service about fundraising, etc…)

International Service Pages 27-29 27

Generation Peace Academy International Service Module “A true global leader is someone who is able to embrace the world in his own bosom.”

Mission Statement Our goal is to inspire our young people to be global citizens and a generation of peace.

We believe in the transformative power of international public service. It expands the participants’ understanding of the world and allows them to see beyond cultural, racial, political and religious boundaries and see into the hearts of people; embodying the vision of a one family under God.

Process of Experience Orientation: The module begins with a four day Orientation Workshop where participants learn about the purpose of International Service, information about their countries, and grasp the vision and goal of GPA for their service project. Teams are formed of ideally 10-15 people.

Fund Raising: The Orientation Workshop is followed by 35 days of fundraising in their teams, specifically for the purpose of raising money for that module’s projects. While fundraising, par- ticipants focus on the external monetary goal as well as the spiritual purpose of service and how it relates to their personal life of faith.

Preparation: There is a four day period between the fundraising and “take-off ” time set aside in order to substantially prepare the students for their task in each country and the purpose with which they are serving.

The Project: The Overseas experience consists of 21 days. The first few days are set aside for ori- entation and cultural education and sightseeing, followed by the actual project period and a home stay experience depending on the country’s situation. It is concluded with a few days set aside for reflection and to mark a conclusion to the service experience.

Results and Improvements The countries we work in consist of exclusively South American, Central American, and Carib- bean countries. True Father has often talked about USA’s role to embrace and serve Latin America and we have taken that vision to heart.

Where available we work with already existing UC and RYS foundation projects, so as not to have to design projects from scratch and to utilize existing relations in those countries.

Last year the International Service Project Module completed nine service projects in 8 different countries.

GPA participants stayed for a total of 21 days in each country: Honduras, Guatemala, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Guyana, Costa Rica, Suriname and Peru.

This year we plan to revisit some of those same countries and also add a few new countries to our list: Belize and Trinidad and Tobago.

Especially this upcoming year we will work on local press releases for each project and use this experience to help enhance the image of the Unification Church community.

Also the visits of GPA participants have helped to bring clarity and unity in the countries where there has been confusion and division in our movement.

(a paragraph on education) (a statement on how much work it takes to plan and prepare for these trips)

Participant Testimonies “When Uncle John explained to me that the Suriname overseas group would have several opportunities to be broadcasted over the media, I never imag- ined it would be me who would do the talking. I considered what In Jin Nim would say if she had this opportunity, and suddenly I felt like a true representative of True Parents, going to the corners of the world to spread our message of One Family Under God on behalf of True Parents.

The next thing I know I’m in front of a microphone being introduced live by the radio DJ who was speaking Dutch – the nation’s language. I explained how STF is a leadership training program for college aged students who want to deepen their faith in God and become global leaders who can serve the world and love people transcending the boundaries of race, religion, and nationality. After ex- plaining

briefly about the reason we’re here in Suriname, I thought I was finished. As I re- tracted into my own world, I tuned out the DJ who continued to speak eloquently in Dutch about who knows what. Suddenly I shifted back into reality when I real- ized the DJ was motioning for me to return to the microphone. Looking to me he said, “Liana, are there any words of encouragement you can share with the young people of Suriname?” Feeling frantic, I remained calm and pretended to know what I was talking about and replied, “Well, if there is anything I’d like to say to you, it would be…..” I carried on with some jumble about never giving up, believ- ing in yourself, shooting for high goals…”

“ I felt like a true representative of True Parents, going to the corners of the world to spread our message of One Family Under God on behalf of True Parents.

” For the first time I really believed that I do have great potential to influence this world at a large scale. This is what God put me on this Earth for, to support True Parents’ mission of restoring all mankind back to God – and what better way to reach out to people than through the media? There is something within me that is so powerful – I can feel it. I can move mountains. And the only person that can limit my potential and compromise how far I go in life is myself.

-Liana Garder, Florida

Team Leader Training 31

Generation Peace Academy Team Leader Training Generation Peace Academy is a one year program. However, those who aspire and qualify to become team leaders in their second year undergo a serious and intensive training to be able to lead a team of four to six members. They are held responsible for many aspects of their education, train- ing and daily living.

During the course of their 1st year, participants apply and are selected for the position. Team leader training takes place during the summer after Conclusion workshop and before Kickoff work- shop. Here are some of the skills that 2nd Year team leaders will learn:

•How to raise others and guide their life of faith through internal guidance • How to mentor • Communication skills (listening, speaking, writing, presentation) • Public speaking • How to create and convey a vision • Safe driving • The ability to coordinate workshops/programs • How to create and work with a schedule • Financial skills (raising money and managing funds) • How to coordinate effective meetings • How to strengthen teams • How to deal with a wide range of personalities • Decision making skills • Analytical and problem solving skills • How to strategize (goal setting, objectives, strategy, tactics) • How to delegate • Manners and protocol • Basic health care

Team leader training consists of:

• Education on mindset and heart of a leader • Ownership of own life of faith through an emphasis on prayer and Divine Principle lecturing • Driving practice and certification • Training in mentoring and giving internal guidance • Character training through outdoor adventure challenge, sports, fundraising • Logistical skills: bookkeeping, organizing fundraising area, managing product etc…

Having 2nd year team leaders has been a great benefit for the program and ultimately has become a necessity, but it is also a precious experience for them as they stepped up to the challenge of leadership. Many have shared deep experiences as they assume the role of elder brother or sister, or even tasted the parental realm of heart. Some team leaders have testified in tears about how they felt God and True Parents heart toward their members.

Parent Testimonies “As Mr. Gavin had said, you get those phone calls and all of a sudden the level of conversation with your child is no longer so external and superficial, it’s really the substance of heart, of our life, about our faith, and about God. And when you get those phone calls, they understand what you went through on MFT because it’s no longer just a story of our MFT experiences, but it is a part of their life now. They have inher- ited what we went through because they experienced it. Now when you share stories, you can share, “Wow, yeah I had very similar experiences!” It really bonds your heart together with your children because now the foundation that we went through, they own themselves. I’m really so grateful for that.”

-Mrs. Marjorie Swenson, Chicago

I want to share this short story with you about why I am grateful to GPA. Last year my husband, Walter, came home from a GPA workshop, and when I went to pick him up at the airport, Walter was glowing. And I remember I saw him and he just had this huge smile. Walter came in the car and said, “I have hope in our church. I have hope somebody else will take over. I have met the most wonderful young people on

“I have hope in our church. I have hope somebody

” else will take over. I have met the most wonderful young people on GPA.”

…In his senior year, Israel had told me, “Mom, I going to GPA.” And I said, “OK, go to GPA.” We really didn’t know how his experience was going to be, so we sup- ported him. He is actually a pioneer. He is the first one from San Diego to join. Forty days later, after Israel joined GPA, he called and we started talking. Israel said, “Mom, now I understand your stories. Now I am so grateful to first generation. Now I know why you went through what you went through.” I sat on the couch and looked at True Parents picture and I thought, “Now my God is his God, his personal God, his personal True Parents. Now my faith is also his faith.”

When Israel came back this year to San Diego, he gave a forty minute Sunday Service. Everybody in San Diego was like, “Wow! What happened to Israel? He never talked before.” So many people in San Diego are inspired. So he opened the door to let us par- ents know what GPA is and for other children to see how wonderful it is to join GPA.

I’m so grateful to GPA because now Israel can relate to my stories. Now he can really deeply feel proud of being in True Father’s lineage.

-Mrs. Suyapa Frank, San Diego