I just applied, what's next?

After applying for Kaleo, a StuMo staff member will reach out to you about an interview. After the interview, the next step would be getting accepted to Kaleo. This is when you can begin fundraising and/or pay your deposit. To secure your spot at Kaleo you must pay a $400 deposit to your StuMo Go account. This deposit price is included in the overall price of $3700. In addition to paying your deposit, there will be other documents you need to review, sign and upload before securing your spot.

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What does the cost cover?

The cost covers rent and materials for Kaleo. Grocery and travel are not included. However, you are allowed to raise an additional $1600 that will be given back to you in the form of per diem which can be used to help with grocery and other travel related expenses.

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Where will I work?

StuMo has worked to develop relationships with businesses in the Destin area that will provide full-time employment for our students. During the summer, each student works 35-40 hours per week in order to make money and gain practical work experience alongside our trainings. 

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What does fundraising look like?

Fundraising training is available through a StuMo staff member at each campus. The most efficient way for fundraising is through your personal Focus Missions giving link. This will give you the most up to date fundraising information. In order to participate in Kaleo, you are assigned and expected to raise $3700.

 

If you choose not to raise the donations needed to fund the project, you will be responsible to Kaleo for that amount. You may pay the rest of Kaleo all at once before the summer begins using your StuMo Go link or in 3 installments over the course of Kaleo. 

 

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What if I need to take summer classes to graduate on time?

No worries! Students at the project are allowed to take classes online. We encourage you to take off 5-8 hours of work a week to have adequate time to succeed in the classes you take!

 

Where will I live?
Our staff have secured lodging at Residence Inn Sandestin. Students will stay in a 2-bedroom suite with fully equipped kitchens, refrigerator, dish washer, etc. On the property is a fitness center, pool, basketball court, and laundry facility. Our lodging is walking distance from Grand Boulevard at Sandestin (shopping and dining), as well as 5 minutes away from the beach!

 

Why 60 days?
We feel 60 days is the perfect length of time for a summer program like Kaleo. It gives you around 4+ weeks at home while also giving you ample time to develop spiritually. Often times at a week-long church camp, a person may return home on an emotional high. We do not seek for students to make emotionally driven decisions, nor to come back home merely riding an emotional high. Rather, we want to see you make gains in character growth, initiative-taking, leadership skills, social aptitude and in owning responsibilities. We believe that two months is enough time for you to truly take substantial steps in these areas. 

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How do I get to Kaleo?

We recommend that students drive so that they have access to a vehicle to get around all summer. Although, we have many students that choose to fly into Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS).  Whether you fly or drive, arrive the evening of May 26th. That’s when Kaleo content will begin. Kaleo will end the morning of July 23rd.

 

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How would I put Kaleo on a resume?
Kaleo, in short, is a summer residency program with StuMo. It's an incredible experience that will help you in problem solving skills and critical thinking. Students often list Kaleo on their resume like this:

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StuMo, Summer Residency (Kaleo)

May 2025-July 2025

• Lived alongside other college students and fostered community and unity

• Attended intensive leadership training courses while working full-time

• Received one-to-one mentoring from a leader every week

• Developed a team of financial donors

• Collaborated with other students to change my campus for the better

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Is Kaleo the best place for spiritual and leadership development?
In our experience, a student can grow outside of a residency program like Kaleo, but it can be difficult. Kaleo allows you to get away for two months to a place where you are in an environment that is a greenhouse for growth. You will be hearing challenging messages each week from StuMo staff and other leaders. You will have accountability through your d-group leader and other in your group. You will learn practical skills such as how to study the Bible, developing work ethic, what qualities to look for in a spouse, how to help others find a relationship with God, how to handle money and making wise decisions.

 

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Why is Kaleo in Florida?

A centerpiece of Kaleo is ensuring that each student works a full-time job. Not only so you can make money, but also so that you can grow in your character and apply what you are learning in a real life environment. There are only a few places in the United States where we can be guaranteed that 200+ people per Kaleo project will be employed just for the summer. 

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Is Kaleo just a vacation?
Absolutely not.  Kaleo is not designed for the student who wants to take it easy. Though there will be plenty of opportunities for you to have fun, go to social events, take a road trip, go on group dates, make memories, etc... but Kaleo is so much more than this!  At Kaleo, our goal is to develop young leaders. The schedule is designed to ensure the you develop in your spriritual life. Thus, the schedule is very full with work, small group interaction, listening to speakers, reading, giving presentations, etc.

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Can my parents visit Kaleo?

Yes! We would love for them to visit! We have a weekend designed especially for them. Stay tuned for more information about our Family Weekend.