Join Us for Lao Summer Camp 2025!
We’re thrilled to welcome students to this year’s Lao Summer Camp—a vibrant, 10-day cultural program designed to immerse youth in the rich traditions of Lao culture through the performing arts.
Led by our passionate volunteer instructors, the camp offers a unique curriculum where students can explore traditional Lao music, dance, and customs in a fun, engaging, and supportive environment. Come celebrate culture, community, and creativity with us!
Registration Deadline: Monday, July 21, 2025 or earlier if full.
Where:
Wat Buddharam
2617 S. 148th Street
Seatac, WA 98168
Costs:
$200 per student for 2 weeks
$185 for each additional sibling enrolled
Includes snacks, light lunch, and all classes/activities.
Volunteer Camp Counselors:
We are accepting applications for volunteer camp counselors age 16+ (high school or college). A fun and rewarding way to reach up to 60 hours of community service!
When:
August 4 - 15, 2025
Monday to Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Curriculum:
Lao Musical Instruments
Lao Traditional Dance
Cultural Workshops: Arts, cooking, cultural studies
Student Age Requirements: 5 - 16 (elementary to high school)
Letter From Pom Foundation
Dear Families and Community Members,
It is with great joy that I welcome you to Lao Summer Camp 2025, hosted by the POM Foundation in partnership with Wat Buddharam. Each year, this program grows in impact and spirit, and we are honored to continue this tradition of cultural education and community building.
Our summer camp is thoughtfully designed for children ages 5 to 14, and places a strong emphasis on preserving Lao traditional arts—particularly music, dance, and theater—as vital expressions of our heritage. These artistic forms are more than performances; they are living traditions that carry the stories, values, and spirit of the Lao people across generations.
Through our unique curriculum, created and led by dedicated volunteer instructors, campers are immersed in Lao arts and culture, offering them a deep and joyful connection to their roots. Participants learn important cultural practices through hands-on, youth-driven activities in an engaging, supportive environment.
To empower our youth as future leaders, we’ve also incorporated a life skills component, where campers explore practical topics such as teamwork, conflict resolution, and effective communication. Campers are placed in multi-age groups to foster mentorship, leadership, and a strong sense of community, encouraging “big sister/brother” relationships within the group.
At the heart of this camp is our belief that Lao culture must not only be remembered—but lived, shared, and passed on. By embracing the performing arts and cultural traditions, our youth are not only learning—they are becoming stewards of our heritage.
Thank you for trusting us with your children and supporting our mission to keep Lao culture alive, vibrant, and thriving. We look forward to another beautiful and meaningful summer together.
With gratitude,
Siri Martinet
Executive Director, POM Foundation
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How does Lao Summer Camp support your mission?
A: Lao Summer Camp teaches youth about Lao customs, traditions, and values, helping them connect with their cultural identity and heritage. The camp brings together campers, families, volunteers, and visiting masters from Laos to celebrate and preserve Lao culture through music, dance, and community.
Q. Who funds/manages Lao Summer Camp?
A: The camp is fully volunteer-led and funded by generous donations from families, friends, and community partners who believe in our mission. We’re powered by passion, not payroll!
Q. Where does the tuition money go?
A: Tuition covers all camp expenses—meals, supplies, and instruments. Youth volunteers (high school juniors/seniors and college students) receive a small stipend, while adult instructors volunteer their time.
Q: Will my child get to perform at the end-of-camp show?
A: Yes! All campers will participate in FORTE, our final showcase that highlights what they’ve learned in music, dance, and cultural activities. It’s a joyful celebration for families and the community to witness the creativity and growth of every student. Please note that youth camp counselors do not perform in the show.
Q. Is Lao Summer Camp the same as Kinnaly?
A: Not quite. Lao Summer Camp is a great introduction to the Kinnaly Lao Music & Dance Troupe, but it’s a separate program. Many Kinnaly students attend camp to build friendships and get a feel for the program before joining.
