Summer Program

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Applicants choose a thematic area from a small list in their application. Participating organizations are from the non-profit sector with an established record of working in earthquake-affected regions. Participants may be considered for another organization if their skill set is better suited for another opportunity. However, participants have final say on whether they wish to work on a certain project. Once a project is confirmed the participant must fill out a contract with Impak and the hosting organization, obtain immunizations, and make flight arrangements.

Orientation
Program participants begin their session with a short orientation that serves as a segue into the cultural, social and political challenges that they will likely face throughout their stay in Pakistan. Invited guests provide some context about relief work and share views on how their experience may impact themselves and others around them. In addition, the orientation supplies participants with a small handbook that includes contacts, emergency resources and procedures should any problem arise.

Placements
Program participants spend the summer with their respective organization working on projects outlined by their host organization. As part of their obligation to Impak, participants must provide a bi-weekly report consisting of a personal narrative and a technical evaluation of their experience. Participants can arrange flex time with their respective organization but, for the most part, must be fully immersed with their respective project. From our own experiences of working on the field in Pakistan, we believe that it is such focus and determination that will make their summer experience most memorable.

End of Session
During the last week of the program, participants must ensure that they have completed any obligations to their host organization and with Impak. Once those have been met, they must participate in an exit interview that allows them to detail candidly the positive and negative aspects of working with their organization, areas for improvement, and an assessment of the overall experience.

Group Retreat
The last week of the program is a group trip where all participants regroup for an intimate, organic experience in visiting other parts of Pakistan. Planning and execution of the group trip is handled by TravelPak, a UK-based travel and trekking company. Last summer's trip was a phenomenal success and we anticipate this year's retreat to, again, be one of the highlights of the Impak experience.