Luethi-Peterson Camps
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Founded in 1949, the Luethi-Peterson Camps (LPC) are non-profit co-ed summer camps in different countries that aim to foster international understanding by bringing together kids from a variety of cultural backgrounds. Using crafts, sports, music and language study as vehicles, LPC emphasizes self-government, guiding children to take responsibility not only for themselves but for their community. The campers do a lot of the cooking and cleaning and share in the decision-making.
Five to eight camps are run each summer, mostly in Europe. Most sites are rented annually (e.g.: schoolhouses, farmhouses, holiday houses), though Freedom, Birchpoint and Heggnes are owned or administered directly by LPC. Camps are 4-6 weeks long and the average size is about 24 campers and 8 counselors. Camps are run for either younger children, ages 9-14 or older kids, ages 14-17.
Accommodations and amenities are relatively simple. Attendees spend time trying to learn each others' languages, and singing and dancing, among other activities. Bonds form quickly regardless of age, nationality or use of a common language. Counselors are not paid well, but nevertheless, return each year.
LPC's central office (and annual Christmas Conference) is in Goldern, Switzerland. Its Board of Governors is headquartered in Barrington, RI, USA.
