In today’s global political climate, the discussion of peace and justice has never been more important or timely. Since the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, Northern Ireland has certainly become a country safer from the terrorism experienced during the Troubles. But, some of the deep social problems and political consequences still remain. And at the same time, as our world gets more connected, we become more aware and effected by violence, racism, and injustice. Continued work and focus are absolutely necessary to increase understanding at the grass roots level.
That's where the Ulster Project comes in. We offer leadership training in conflict resolution (reconciliation) with the goal of empowering Ulster Project teens to oppose discrimination of any kind.
The original guidelines for the Project focused on the prejudices and stereotypes which were the root cause of the bitter strife labeled Catholic/Protestant in Northern Ireland. Today, the Project guidelines continue to focus on breaking down prejudices and stereotypes, including those based on race, religion and ethnicity by providing teens that demonstrate leadership potential with the tools to promote tolerance and respect across the lines that divide us and creating unity amidst diversity.
In Northern Ireland, an evaluation of the Ulster Project from all the participating towns and cities reveal success far surpassing the original expectations. The positive changes include parents of the project youth crossing sectarian lines in safety to work cooperatively on behalf of the Project.
The youth themselves have maintained their friendships with the support of the churches and neighbourhood communities. Their influence extends to a large peer group, as well as their extended families.
American teens and adults experience the joy of “hands-on” leadership development, conflict resolution skills, and lasting friendships that are made with the Northern Irish visitors and with other Americans. Most American host families have remained involved in the Project and continue to support the project. Although not mandatory, many American teens visit their Northern Irish family. It is amazing to share in the growth and development of our future leaders during the Project.
That's where the Ulster Project comes in. We offer leadership training in conflict resolution (reconciliation) with the goal of empowering Ulster Project teens to oppose discrimination of any kind.
The original guidelines for the Project focused on the prejudices and stereotypes which were the root cause of the bitter strife labeled Catholic/Protestant in Northern Ireland. Today, the Project guidelines continue to focus on breaking down prejudices and stereotypes, including those based on race, religion and ethnicity by providing teens that demonstrate leadership potential with the tools to promote tolerance and respect across the lines that divide us and creating unity amidst diversity.
In Northern Ireland, an evaluation of the Ulster Project from all the participating towns and cities reveal success far surpassing the original expectations. The positive changes include parents of the project youth crossing sectarian lines in safety to work cooperatively on behalf of the Project.
The youth themselves have maintained their friendships with the support of the churches and neighbourhood communities. Their influence extends to a large peer group, as well as their extended families.
American teens and adults experience the joy of “hands-on” leadership development, conflict resolution skills, and lasting friendships that are made with the Northern Irish visitors and with other Americans. Most American host families have remained involved in the Project and continue to support the project. Although not mandatory, many American teens visit their Northern Irish family. It is amazing to share in the growth and development of our future leaders during the Project.
"Faith in Friendship" - Ulster Project Documentary
Students from Hanover College, Hanover, Indiana travelled to Northern Ireland to discover more about the country's recent history and the impact that the Ulster Project has played in the life of some of it's past participants.
Students from Hanover College, Hanover, Indiana travelled to Northern Ireland to discover more about the country's recent history and the impact that the Ulster Project has played in the life of some of it's past participants.
Ulster Project Benefits
How could your family benefit from participating in the Ulster Project?
Past participants of the project talk a lot about the wonderful benefits of participating as a host family. Your family will develop friendships with your guest teen and their family in Northern Ireland. Your family and teen will also develop friendships with the other teens (both American and Northern Irish) in the project. You will gain information about Northern Ireland, experience the "Northern Irish accent" and participate in many fun activities. Many past teens travel to Northern Ireland during subsequent summers which follow their Hosting year. Your teen will also participate in "Discovery" sessions which contributes to personal growth in all teen participants. Many past teens describe the project as "the best summer of my life". Your teen will also participate in service projects. After completing the project, your teen can receive a letter certifying the appropriate number of service hours which can be used for applying to the National Honor Society as well as college admissions and scholarships.
How could your family benefit from participating in the Ulster Project?
Past participants of the project talk a lot about the wonderful benefits of participating as a host family. Your family will develop friendships with your guest teen and their family in Northern Ireland. Your family and teen will also develop friendships with the other teens (both American and Northern Irish) in the project. You will gain information about Northern Ireland, experience the "Northern Irish accent" and participate in many fun activities. Many past teens travel to Northern Ireland during subsequent summers which follow their Hosting year. Your teen will also participate in "Discovery" sessions which contributes to personal growth in all teen participants. Many past teens describe the project as "the best summer of my life". Your teen will also participate in service projects. After completing the project, your teen can receive a letter certifying the appropriate number of service hours which can be used for applying to the National Honor Society as well as college admissions and scholarships.
