Frequently Asked Questions

Student Leadership Institute:

•  What is the cost of the program?

  • • The full cost of the program is $125. However, we are offering a limited number of scholarship for individuals who cannot pay this cost due to dire needs. Please email vfuentes@sowhatelse.org to inquire about our scholarships. 

• Where is the program located?

  • • The program will take place at 3427 Olney Laytonsville Rd

    • It is in the library of the school: St. John's Episcopal School in Olney, MD.

• When will the program start and end?

  • • We ask that parents drop off their students no earlier than when the session indicates. 

      • Session 1: July 29 - August 1, 8:00 am - 12:30 pm

      • Session 2: July 29 - August 1, 12:15 pm - 4:45 pm

      • Session 3: August 5 - August 8, 12:15 pm - 4:45 pm

• Where will students get dropped off?

  • • Students can be dropped off at the entrance. The lead teacher Emily will be on-site to receive and welcome the students. 

• How do we secure a spot for my child/camper?

  • • Please sign-up as soon as you can to secure a spot for your child. We will accept applications until we meet our capacity. 

• How do we apply to see if we qualify for the scholarship?

  • • As noted above please email: vfuentes@sowhatelse.org to see if you qualify.

• Will you provide transportation?

  • • At this moment we are not providing daily transportation to the camp. Depending on interest and our budget we may be able to provide transportation closer to the start of camp. We will make sure to keep all parents who sign-up updated on this matter.

• What are your protocols for background checking your employees that will be working this summer?

  • • We make sure to do a  thorough background check for all of our employees who work with youth. We also review any past history and check references to ensure we employ individuals for our program. 

• What snacks and meals will be provided?

  • • We can only provide snacks for the program. We try to accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions as best as we can. Please make sure your child brings a lunch bag, a water bottle, and comfortable shoes. 

• Do I need to purchase any supplies for my child/camper in anticipation of starting the program?

  • • No, we provide mostly everything that will be needed. 

• Can I pay the cost of the program through a payment plan?

  • • Yes, please contact vfuentes@sowhatelse.org if you would like to pay in 2-3 installments.

• How do I donate snacks, supplies, and other resources to this program or other youth programs?

  • • You can bring them to our pantry located at: 4924 Wyaconda Rd. Rockville, MD 20852. Please email mjoe@sowhatelse.org if you plan to stop by. 

• How does the Student Leadership Institutes relate to So What Else Inc.?

  • • The Student Leadership Institute (SLI) is a program under the umbrella of So What Else's Youth Programs. Prior to 2019- SLI was under the non-profit Project Change which then merged with So What Else.

• How do I volunteer as either an adult or as a teen mentor?

  • • If you are interested in volunteering please email vfuentes@sowhatelse.org. If you are a high-school student interested in volunteering as a teen mentor please fill out this registration form  (< click here). Teen Mentors will be decided by April 19, 2024. 

• How many students are in the program?

  • • The total number varies every year depending on the location. In year's past we have had anything between 15-20 students in our programs. When we have a smaller camp the experience feels more intimate and personalized for the campers. Large or small-our students always come out of the experience with a  whole new set of skills and are thoroughly happy with the results of their hard work.