The real voyage of discovery consists not of seeing new landscapes but in having new eyes. ~Marcel Proust

Cancer can dismantle confidence, steal control, and wreak havoc on our ability to look forward to anything – other than endless treatment or the potential loss of a loved one. When it comes time to climb out of the trenches of the disease and back onto the battlefield of day-to-day life, the idea of boarding a flight to the other side of the world may feel exhilarating to some and impossible (physically or emotionally) to others.

Over the last few years, we have talked about whether it’s possible to create a perspective-shifting, meaning-making, community-impacting “volunteer travel” program on this continent. An opportunity for our participants to step beyond the borders of their comfort zones while shining a light on important volunteer opportunities and organizations right here at home.

This year, in addition to our programs in India and Peru, we’re thrilled to pilot the first domestic program of it’s kind. Our Elemental Odyssey Program invites anyone deeply impacted by cancer (as a patient or a caregiver) to join us for a one-week volunteer travel experience where we’ll give back to projects in both Los Angeles and Phoenix as well as watch the first light of day pour through the vast expanse of the Grand Canyon. Over our time together, our participants will have the opportunity to reflect on what they’ve been through and make connections with people who “just get it”. In addition, each participant will gain access to a broader framework of support, tools, and resources to help them turn the page to the next chapter in their lives.

Are you or someone you know interested in joining us for this inaugural program? Apply before January 31, 2016 and include “Elemental” Odyssey as one of your selections. You will have the opportunity to speak with someone from our team and learn more about this innovative model. We can’t wait to meet the tribe who will turn this next phase of the dream into a reality.

First Elemental Odyssey (Los Angeles – Phoenix. April 24 – May 1, 2016)

Volunteer with inspiring projects in Los Angeles, explore your story through a new lens, watch the sun rise over the vast beauty of the Grand Canyon, and give back with members of the local community in Phoenix.

Los Angeles: You’ll volunteer with an inspiring inner-city project, join a movement of fresh food and empowerment, and learn from a leading expert on how to find grace and resilience while dealing with cancer. You’ll have the opportunity to unplug from your day to day life and reconnect to yourself while meeting other people who can relate to what you’ve been through.

Sunrise At The Grand Canyon: After our time in Los Angeles, you’ll join us for an epic trip to the red rocks of Arizona. After an overnight stay in Flagstaff, you’ll rise before dawn for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the sun rise over the beautiful expanse of the Grand Canyon.

Phoenix: After our unforgettable morning together, you’ll travel south to the City of The Sun. While in Phoenix, you will give back to underserved families and children impacted by cancer and remember that there is need everywhere in the world. You’ll learn about Native American culture and share your story via an innovative video project.

Throughout the program (before, during, and after our week on the road) you will have the support you need to begin to heal the emotional scars of cancer as well as gain access to tools to help you step into the next chapter of your story.

Although applications have officially closed for now, we would still love to connect with you. If you are interested in exploring a future A Fresh Chapter Alliance Foundation program, please make sure you’re signed up here: Become A Participant. You’ll be the first to know when applications open again.