Preparing Tomorrow’s Counselors, Social Workers, and Community Leaders, Today!
What is the mission of the Future Helpers Summer Academy?
Our mission is to introduce high school scholars to the helping professions—counseling, social work, psychology, and human services—through structured learning, ethical foundations, and hands-on exposure. We aim to inspire the next generation of compassionate, skilled, and community-minded helpers.
What is the long-term vision of the Academy?
We envision a pipeline of well-prepared, diverse young leaders entering the mental health and human services fields with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Our vision is to increase representation, ethical leadership, and community impact by equipping scholars early with understanding and direction—before they choose their college major.
What is the tuition for the 2026 Summer Academy?
The full tuition rate is $795 per scholar for the complete 8-week program plus the in-person graduation experience.
Is there an Early Bird Rate?
Yes. Families who register by the Early Bird deadline of April 15, receive a reduced rate of $600.
Do you offer discounts for siblings?
Yes!
- Second sibling enrolled: $150 off
- Third sibling (and each additional sibling): $200 off
Sibling discounts apply only to scholars from the same household.
What does the tuition cover?
Tuition covers everything included in the 8-week academy:
- Instruction & Curriculum
- Professional training content and experiential learning sessions
- Personalized feedback and support
- 24 hours of live virtual teaching
- Capstone project guidance
- Materials & Resources
- Academy T-shirt
- Mental health workbook
- Scholar journal
- Printed training packets & supplies
- Graduation Goodie bag
- Graduation Day (In-Person)
- Role-play simulations
- Facility tour of a real mental health practice
- Light food & refreshments
- Awards and certificates
- Professional-style presentation opportunities
- Photo station area
- Administrative Costs
- Registration processing
- Payment tracking
- Google Meet/Zoom access
- Program preparation and coordination
The combined value of the program is $900–$1,300, making the $795 rate an accessible and competitive option for families.
Is there a deposit and is it refundable?
Yes. A $200 non-refundable deposit is required to secure a scholar’s seat ($50 for those awarded a financial need scholarship).
Are scholarships offered?
Yes. We offer three total scholarships each summer:
1. High Performer Scholarship (50% Off Tuition)
Awarded to one scholar
Requires final report card showing straight A’s
Must be submitted before the scholarship is officially granted
2. Financial-Need Scholarships (75% Off Tuition)
Two scholarships available
Awarded to scholars whose parent/guardian demonstrates financial need
Documentation may be requested (e.g., qualifying program eligibility, hardship explanation)
Scholarships do not cover the $200 deposit unless otherwise stated.
What happens on Graduation Day?
Graduation Day is a meaningful, hands-on, celebratory experience. Scholars will participate in:
- Ethical role-play simulations (helper + client scenarios)
- A tour of a mental health practice
- Team-building experiences
- Games and collaborative activities
- Capstone project presentations
- Awards and certificate ceremony
- Photos and memory-making moments
- Light food & refreshments
Date: Friday, August 21st
Time: 5:45 PM – 8:30 PM
CAN PARENTS/GUARDIANS ATTEND GRADUATION DAY?
Are parents allowed to come?
Yes, but with a structured schedule.
Parents/guardians are invited to return at 7:30 PM for the capstone presentations, awards, and closing ceremony.
They do not attend the early portion of the event to preserve the professional learning environment.
Will scholars receive awards?
Yes. Awards recognize excellence in:
- Professionalism
- Leadership
- Creativity
- Community mindset
- Capstone Project Quality
- Attendance & Engagement
All scholars receive a Certificate of Completion.
What is the capstone project?
The capstone is the culminating assignment of the Academy. It is a professional-style project designed to help scholars think like future helpers.
What are scholars required to produce?
Each scholar will:
- Choose a mental health or human services topic
- Create an educational presentation or short workshop
- Demonstrate understanding of ethics, boundaries, and professional communication
- Present their capstone during Graduation Day in front of families, staff, and peers
Examples include:
- A mini psychoeducation session on stress or communication
- A resource guide for teens
- A brief mental health awareness video
- A workshop outline for middle schoolers
- A community advocacy concept
The capstone is designed to be resume-ready and college-application ready.