WHAT IS THE ULSTER PROJECT?
The Ulster Project is a one of a kind experience. Our teens have the chance to aid in the peacemaking process in Northern Ireland while also enjoying a variety of service-based and fun activities. They often develop close long-term bonds during the project and stay in touch after the month is over, even visiting their friends in Omagh the following year. It is an experience that will never be forgotten and many of our past participants have declared it the “best summer of their lives”.
How the Ulster Project Works:
Every year, toward the end of June, a group of teens are brought over from Northern Ireland. The Northern Irish and American teens get to know each other, and as the month goes on, they participate in all kinds of different activities, strengthening their bonds. Our activity director and counselors are with the teens every day to help them grow and learn more about themselves, each other, and their communities.
Requirements for American Host Teens and Families
- Between 14 and 16 years old.
- Able to participate in physical activities- there is lots of hiking, river rafting and outdoor activities.
- Must be comfortable in a large group and willing to try new things.
- Families must want to further the mission of the Ulster Project and provide a safe and caring home for a Northern Irish teen. References will need to be provided. Families will participate in an in-home interview with both the teen and parents. (The Northern Irish parents are entrusting their children to our care, so the board must ensure that the home is a safe and caring environment for them. We do require a background check on all adults living in the home.)
- Families must be willing and able to transport both teens to all daily activities during the Project time frame. Many of our host parents have full-time jobs or other responsibilities, but often families are able to arrange carpools or make other transportation arrangements. If help is needed, just let the host family committee know.
- Families must provide proof of standard vehicle and home insurance. The Northern Irish teens will have their own medical insurance for illness or medical emergencies.
Time Commitment
The Ulster Project requires an exclusive commitment for the weeks the Northern Irish teens are here. Teens will need to take a break from participating in outside activities, they will simply be too busy. Fortunately, most coaches and leaders are usually very understanding about the benefits of this unique experience and will excuse the time.
The month goes by so quickly and the group becomes extremely close, so teens will be missed if they are absent. Naturally, if a teen is ill, they are excused, but we do ask for a firm commitment from beginning to end and full participation as much as possible. The friendships and experiences the teens have throughout the Project are invaluable, so we hope you can arrange your schedule to be able to participate.
See sample calendar for more details.
Costs
The fees for all Project activities are covered through grants or other fundraising activities by the Utah Ulster Project. The River Trip expenses are generously covered by the McCarthey Foundation. Other grants include the Eccles Foundation and Talamachus Foundation.
Host Families will have some extra expenses during the month as they are feeding, housing, and transporting an extra teen for a month. Teens are usually required to pack a lunch for activities and there will be two potluck dinners during the month.
Families also might want to think about some extra spending money for your American teen, whether that’s something given to them or earned before the month begins. The Northern Irish teens come prepared with their own spending money and the project has two shopping trips at the Park City outlet mall and City Creek.
We greatly appreciate your time and extra commitment to making the Northern Irish teens feel like a part of your family!
Application Process
To begin your application, please submit an application through this website. A member of the host family committee will contact you to clarify any questions you may have and set up an interview. Our host family committee will come to your home and speak with both parents and teen. We get to know you and ask for quite a bit of information as it helps us select compatible matches with the Northern Irish teens.
Once all the applications are received and the interviews are complete, the committee will select the applicants for the project. After, families are notified and will be given a calendar of pre-project meetings. There are three meetings; introductory, history of The Troubles, and a book meeting to go over the details for the project month. In June, families will receive their Northern Irish match and can reach out to their teen and family to begin getting acquainted!
If you are ready to begin the application process – please CLICK HERE to move to the Application Page.
