Vanguard Gap Year Calendar
The program begins on September 14, 2019, and ends on May 2, 2020.
Breaks
- Three weeks at Christmas
- Two weeks in spring
Thanksgiving
Over Thanksgiving, Vanguards host their families at HoneyRock - they plan the activities, cook and serve the meal, and see to the smallest details. In the past, 100+ have gathered to celebrate the holiday together. Families to not only catch a glimpse into the Vanguard Year, but also spend quality time as individual families. It's a Thanksgiving you won't forget!
Trips
- September: Wilderness Trip to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- February: Cross-Cultural Immersion Trip to the Dominican Republic
- March: Inner City Immersion Trip to Chicago
Historical Church Calendar Seasons
Building of our community as we understand our past. A wilderness trip and the heavy work of fall will engage our bodies in creation as we engage each other.
Seminar Topic: God's Big Story
Embracing the reality of the incarnation, God with us, as we serve the winter retreat season, welcoming a thousand guests into our space and life.
Seminar: What does it mean to be human? and What is Truth?
A season of reflection and preparation. Deepening our understanding of our need for redemption and transformation.
Seminar: What do we do with the problem of evil?
A season of renewal and life. Embracing the reality of our salvation as we engage in planting and preparation.
Seminar: What is my purpose in light of the Great Commission?
A season of equipping as we serve in the inner city and prepare to take our summer roles of ministry at HoneyRock.
Optional: Summer Courses to Earn Additional Credit
If Vanguards choose to stay for "Wheaton in the Northwoods" (WIN), a May term offered by Wheaton College, they can earn up to 8 additional credits at a discounted summer rate. WIN students take one 4-credit class over the course of two weeks. They build close relationships with fellow classmates and with Wheaton College faculty members. Classes range from Intro to Philosophy to Modern Global Literature, from Statistics to Wood Fired Ceramics. Learn more about the WIN program.
Optional: A Summer at HoneyRock
After completing the 9-month Vanguard program, Vanguards have the option of working alongside HoneyRock summer staff in a variety of roles. This is an incredible opportunity to put their learning into action through ministry leadership positions. Work areas include cabin leader, grounds crew, facility maintenance, kitchen, housekeeping, activity area leader, or in ministry support roles. Learning to build community, teach Bible studies, resolve conflict and lead their peers will prepare Vanguards for college and career.
If a Vanguard wants to stay for the summer, they begin the application process in January. Income earned from this summer role can be used to reduce the overall cost of Vanguard by paying down the final tuition and program payment.