CIRCLES: In School Mentorship
A Place for Boys to be Heard, Seen, and Supported
Journeymen’s CIRCLES course is a positive mentoring group for boys featuring weekly in-school group meetups, engaging experiential learning activities, and deep conversations boosting mental health.
In a safe, supportive, and empowering community of their peers, volunteer adult mentors, and trained facilitators, participants explore the 7 CIRCLES themes of Compassion, Integrity, Resiliency, Community, Leadership, Equity & Service as we journey toward healthy adulthood.
All of our meetups use some form of the “talking circle”, during which all participants practice authentic communication, speaking and listening from the heart. In-school CIRCLES meetups are free to attend, and fees for outdoor adventures and off-site trips are sliding scale with fee waivers available for those in need.
CIRCLES registration is currently closed.
Why CIRCLES?
Boys who participate in council CIRCLES...
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Increase academic achievement.
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Improve communication and listening skills.
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Reduce discipline referrals.
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Develop a core set of values.
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Develop a positive personal identity.
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Are aware of the impact of their actions.
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Build meaningful, intergenerational relationships.
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Increase decision-making & problem solving skills.
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Increase awareness/understanding of emotions and influence on behavior.
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Expand their empathy and take the perspective of others.
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Improve ability to resolve conflict.
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Engage in meaningful service for school and community.
CIRCLES Outcomes are in alignment with Washington State SEL standards, including:
Self Awareness, Social Awareness, Self Management, Social Management, Self Efficacy, and Social Engagement.
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What is a Rite of Passage (ROP)A rite of passage is a ceremony and marks the transition from one phase of life to another. Although it is often used to describe the tumultuous transition from adolescence to adulthood, it does refer to any of life’s transitions (Births and Beginnings, Initiations, Partnerings, and Endings or Death). There are many passages in our lives we can choose to mark and celebrate.
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What if we don't have any camping gear?Not a problem! We do our best to accommodate each family’s needs and, with enough notice,can try to find any items that you might need for the experience. We have also teamed up with the WTA (Washington Trails Association) and on occasion have access to their lending ‘Gear Library’.
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What if my child doesn't want to participate?It is important to us that your child says “Yes” to the experience. We’ve found that it can often be detrimental to the child and the group when brought to an experience against their will. That said, it is not uncommon for a teen to initially resist an experience proposed by their parent or guardian. In this case, our staff team is always willing to hop on a call to chat with you and/or your child about Journeymen + One Village, the experience, and answer any questions/concerns they might have before making a decision. We’ve found that once youth have a better understanding of what they’re committing to and who he’ll be engaging with – they are much more empowered to make an informed decision that is in their overall best interest.
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Is Journeymen a religious organization?Journeymen Institute is not affiliated with any religious group or church. We look to our external and internal environments for inspiration, wisdom, and guidance. Finding our place in nature is both fun and healthy.
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I can't afford this offering. Do you offer financial aid?Journeymen is committed to maximizing inclusion and access for participants who are unable to afford our courses and are otherwise qualified to enroll. In recognition of historic and ongoing economic disadvantage, participants identifying as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, & Person of Color) may opt to waive Course Fees (except the required $25 processing fee), and/or pay what you wish/can toward enrollment. We believe that finances should not prevent anyone from receiving the support they need to thrive. Simply select the “Financial Aid” option during the registration process.
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How are mentors selected?All mentors participate in an intensive 8-hour training and submit to a full background check process.
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Can I bring items that are not listed on the packing list?Before camp begins you will be provided a packing list that includes required and suggested items, as well as a "Do Not Pack" list. Please check with us if you would like to bring an item that is not on this packing list. You must be able to carry the item along with your backpack for long distances.
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Are payment plans available?Yes, payment plans are available. Please fill out the financial aid form, and our staff will contact you once received.