What Is POSP?

POSP is a program for incoming first-year students, coordinated by current Lafayette students on the executive board and staff, in collaboration with the professional staff of the Landis Center. Accepted first-year students are placed into one of four community engagement projects: Urban Garden Initiative, Gracedale Nursing Home, Firth Youth Center, and Kids in the Community. In addition, students engage in education and reflection activities that introduce them to Lafayette’s campus and the city of Easton in an interactive and immersive way. POSP is a wonderful opportunity to meet and form meaningful relationships with other first-year students as well as returning student leaders. 

Current POSP Engagement Projects:

• Urban Garden Initiative
  UGI is a volunteer initiative that partners with several local urban gardens, including Lafayette’s own LaFarm. Students will interact and learn from community partners while gaining hands-on experiences and a behind the scenes look into Easton’s local food systems. Learn about food insecurity, sovereignty and food production in both a local and broader context.
• Kids in the Community (KIC) Day Camp
  Kids In the Community (KIC) is a three-day program for elementary age students hosted at Paxinosa Elementary School. This POSP camp is entirely student run with staff planning activities related to art, athletics, collaboration, and science. First years will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful one-on-one time with campers. 
• Firth Youth Center
  Firth Youth Center is a community center for vulnerable youth in the Phillipsburg area. During POSP, students will engage with children in grades 4–6 in a supportive camp setting. The week will focus on creating fun and inclusive activities, ranging from collaborative games and art projects to time at the pool.
• Aging Population Initiative
  In the Aging Populations Camp, students will interact with residents and staff at Gracedale Nursing Home through a variety of creative activities. Through arts-and-crafts projects, movie viewings, karaoke (a fan favorite!), and meaningful conversations, students provide companionship to residents and form deep connections. In this way, first-year students gain a glimpse into their new Easton community, while leveraging intergenerational wisdom to support and learn more about aging populations.