T H E  E C H O  F O U N D A T I O N

presents

Footsteps Global Initiative: Cuba

Project Overview

WHAT:       A unique experiential leadership initiative, Echo’s Footsteps Global Initiative: Cuba promotes understanding, inspires a quest for knowledge, and is an exciting study/international travel opportunity for a select group of Charlotte-Mecklenburg students to explore global citizenship and personal responsibility.

With a focus on Cuba, Footsteps Global Initiative: Cuba offers students the once-in-a- lifetime opportunity to experience first-hand, a country with rich history, cultural diversity and artistic flare. Participating students will learn about the region, its history of communist rule, its years of economic and social isolation, and the modern-day possibilities that face this small Caribbean nation as it opens its doors to the 21st century. In this age of globalization, it is vital that young people heighten their sensitivity and broaden their awareness of critical world issues so that they become informed, compassionate leaders of tomorrow. They come to learn the profound impact one person can have in the life of another.

WHERE:     An island nation 90 miles south of the United States, Cuba is the largest island in the West Indies and makes up the Greater Antilles archipelago along with Jamaica, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico. Its capital is Havana, which is located on the northwest coast, 92 nautical miles from Key West, Florida. The program culminates in two-week travel, which includes visits to multiple cities across Cuba.

WHO:          All Charlotte-Mecklenburg public and private school students in grades 9 through 11 during the 2016-17 school year may apply. Candidates should be dedicated students who display leadership skills, initiative, a demonstrated commitment to service and a desire to promote justice anywhere in the world. A panel of Civic Leaders and Educators review applications, interview semi-finalists, and choose finalists.

WHEN:       January – June 2017               Charlotte, NC – Study and Travel Preparation

June/July 2017*                     Cuba – Travel and Service

* Travel Dates TBD

COST:         The program fee is $8,500.00 per student. Limited scholarship opportunities are available. There is no application fee.

HOW:          Interested students should complete and submit the official application form, and attach a current photograph. Semi-finalists will be selected for interviews with a panel of judges comprised of Civic Leaders and Educators.

DEADLINE:  The application, and other important information, is available at www.echofoundation.org. Entry forms (pg. 3-5) and additional documents may be submitted via email to [email protected]  or hand-delivered to The Echo Foundation at 1125 E. Morehead St., Ste. 101, Charlotte, NC 28204. All applications must be received no later than Monday, December 5, 2016 at 5:00 PM.

For more information, contact The Echo Foundation at (704) 347-3844 or [email protected]