"I met a woman who told me about SCA saying – 'This is the BEST advice anyone will ever give you – send your son to SCA.' I laughed at the time – but she was right. For a person who was already mature for his age, the trip strengthened these qualities in my son. So, for him the best thing was: the freedom of action and respect given by elders, new friends, wonder at the great world, introduction into the world of naturalists, strengthening of the sense of his place in the world – that he can have, wants to have, an impact to do good. The changes in my son are subtle but life changing. By finding himself in extraordinary circumstances, awesome surroundings with truly marvelous people, he was able to SEE himself, understand the rich gift he might give of himself, and to smile at this joyful vision. Thank you."
-Kate Evarts, New York

"The five weeks with SCA was the best experience Skye has ever had. Skye has always been a pretty together and very mature person, but she came back with much more self confidence and courage about going out into the world on her own (and forging strong, fulfilling relationships). Her SCA crew became her family. Her crew leaders, George and Helen, made a huge impression on her, and their skills at building such a warm and effective community out of a group of disparate teens in such a short period are absolutely amazing. They (and she) have my profound respect and gratitude."
-James Henterly, Washington

"First … I want you to know that from everything Emily has said … this was one of the best experiences of her life. She has always been committed to conservation but has been frustrated because it is not an important issue with her classmates. She found the other kids in SCA to be thoughtful, passionate, and interested in serving the world. Emily has always been a leader but I believe she is willing to be more outspoken now on issues that are important to her. She appreciated meeting and living with kids and leaders from diverse geographic and ethnic backgrounds and this has given her a greater appreciation of the U.S. as a whole. She has always wanted to explore the world and that desire is even stronger now."
-Randy and Carol Jones, Ohio

"Mark has always appreciated nature and our parks, but he returned from SCA with a deep reverence and respect for the beauty and fragility of nature.  He also learned to deal with short term discomforts for long term impacts and the good of his team.  For Mark, it was a life changing experience that has created cherished memories and life skills that will endure into adulthood."
-Denis and Barbara Smith, Pennsylvania

"Jeff has become even more environmentally aware of this country's problems. He wants to work toward solving environmental dilemmas, especially as they pertain to national parks. Jeff had the opportunity to do a lot of backpacking and has returned home in the best shape of his life. This summer was the experience of a lifetime!"
-Randy and Ann Crawford, California