Reciprocal Service and Cultural Exchange: We Give and We Receive
Engaging with communities through shared effort exemplifies the spirit of Deer Hill’s philosophy, and inspires people to connect across cultural boundaries, as well as with their own communities. We are honored to have long-standing relationships with families and communities in the Diné (Navajo) Nation and Hopi and Zuni Pueblos.
Our reciprocal service model is based on the knowledge that students receive as much as they give. While working alongside community members and contributing to real-life projects, they simultaneously gain valuable insights into traditional ways of life, working alongside locals who share stories, crafts, arts, and other aspects of their culture. It is a rare opportunity to learn about Indigenous culture and traditional lifeways in such a direct and unfiltered way.
Real Connections, Real Exchange, Shared Humanity
Our partnerships with Indigenous communities are built on mutual respect, reciprocity, and trust. In collaboration with our hosts, we contribute to projects that address their stated needs. This may include shearing sheep, building or repairing fences and corrals, projects related to water and energy, assisting elders, repairing traditional mud-brick ovens, and more. Students say that the reciprocal service component is often the highlight of their Deer Hill experience, creating lasting connections with their host families and communities.
Giving Back to Public Lands
Our public lands are a precious resource and deserve our collective attention and care.
Conservation projects happen in partnership with federal and state land agencies, as well as local environmentally-focused nonprofits. Projects provide fantastic opportunities for students to learn about local ecology, and encourage student investment and responsibility for care-taking public lands and wild spaces. Groups work to mitigate environmental damage, (re)build trails, restore watersheds and/or wildlife habitat, and more. Many students leave inspired and curious to learn more about how they can contribute to land/Earth stewardship.
Expeditions may include service projects arranged with the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, or National Monuments and Parks. Participants in summer expeditions will receive certificates stating their service credit hours for use toward school or other requirements.
