Foundations Program Overview
The Simply Guided: Foundations Boys Summer Program is a 6-week mentorship program for boys ages 11–14, designed to support personal growth, leadership, and emotional awareness. Held outdoors in the Puna District of Hawai‘i, the program blends group discussion, hands-on learning, physical challenges, and nature-based experiences. We are planning to keep the group small — between 5 to 8 boys — so that each participant feels seen, supported, and part of a close-knit community. Through connection, community, and adventure, boys are guided to step into responsibility, confidence, and brotherhood.
Dates, Time, Location
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Program Dates
June 17 - July 25th
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Weekly Sessions
Every Tuesday-Friday
Tues-Thurs 9am-3pm
Friday 9am-3:30/4pm -
Location
Koa’e Trading Post
14-4544 Goverment Beach Rd.
Pahoa, HI 96778
19°31'14.7"N 154°50'33.8"W
Weekly Intentions
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Week 1: Roots & Connection
We start by building a strong foundation—getting to know one another, creating group agreements, and exploring what it means to belong.
Highlights include:
• Team-building games and group check-ins
• A collaborative “Tree of Values” made from natural and found objects
• A living sculpture activity: “What Belonging Looks Like”🛠 Build Project: Soil Sifting Screen
Participants will build wooden soil sifters to support future ʻāina work and learn about foundational tools for gardening and land care. -
Week 2: Emotions & Responsibility (Kuleana)
We explore our emotional world—how to name, feel, and express emotions—and how to take ownership of our actions with courage and care.
Highlights include:
• Creative “emotion stations” to explore how feelings live in the body
• Acting out real-life moments of accountability and growth
• Regulation practices: breathwork, grounding, and movement🛠 Build Project: Lava Rock Rocket Stove
Working together, the group will build a small rocket stove using lava rock and concrete mix—learning fire safety, cooperation, and self-reliance. -
Week 3: Respect, Integrity & Expression
We focus on how we treat others, how we express ourselves honestly, and how to repair when we mess up.
Highlights include:
• Skits: respectful vs. disrespectful interactions
• “Real Talk Relay” to build skills in deep listening and honest sharing
• Group “Repair Toolbox” for conflict resolution and reconnection🛠 Build Project: Bamboo Fishing Poles
Participants will craft fishing poles using local bamboo—blending tradition, local materials, patience, and hands-on skill building.
Weekly Flow
Each week follows a balanced rhythm of structure, adventure, and reflection — designed to keep boys engaged, growing, and grounded.
Weekly Rhythm:
- Tuesday & Thursday: On-site at our homebase (The Trading Post)
- Wednesday: Local park exploration day
- Friday: Full adventure day (hikes, beaches, or cultural sites)
Daily Flow
(Tuesday-Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM / 3:30-4 PM on Friday)
Each day includes a blend of personal growth, physical movement, group bonding, and outdoor exploration.
- Morning Fire Circle: Group check-in, mindfulness practice, and overview of the day
- Physical Challenge / Group Game: Movement-based activity to build energy, teamwork, and confidence
- Guided Lesson or Topic of the Week: Discussion on themes like Respect, Responsibility, Leadership, etc.
- Hands-On Activity or Garden Work: Crafting, planting, and group problem-solving
- Journaling & Reflection: Slow down, think deeply, and express in writing
- Lunch & Connection: Community meals and friendship-building
- Closing Circle: Group gratitude and check-outs (Thursdays include Community Meeting)
Program Highlights
- 24+ hours/week of immersive, in-person programming
- Mentorship from trained youth leaders and experienced men
- Hands-on life skills through team-building and outdoor learning
- Weekly take-home tools, journaling prompts, and exercises
- Daily fresh snacks and hydration provided
- Leadership, communication, and confidence-building
- Connection to land through ʻAina-based learning and gardening
- Weekly full-day adventures to beaches, hikes, and cultural sites
- End-of-program celebration and personalized takeaway gift
Program Cost & Enrollment
Weekly Program Tuition: $200 per week
Families are welcome to enroll their boys for one week, multiple weeks, or the full six-week journey—whatever works best with your summer schedule.
Full Program Tuition $1,200 for 6 full weeks
No Minimum Deposit: Drop-ins Welcome, pay weekly/custom plan.
Payment Breakdown:
- Weekly Plan: $200/week
- Daily Equivalent: $50/day of leadership, exploration, growth and fun!!!
- Hourly Equivalent: $8.33/hour for 24+ hours/week of in-person support
Payment Methods: Cash, Check, or Venmo
Need Flexibility?
We understand every family has unique needs. Custom plans available.
“I want this to be accessible. Please reach out if cost is a barrier — I’m happy to talk story.”
Contact Simply Guided: (828) 808-0182 | simplyguided.life@gmail.com