Camp Rising Sun is an International, Full Scholarship, Leadership Program for Promising Youth

Camp Rising Sun is an 8 week summer, international, full scholarship, leadership program for gifted and talented students (ages 14-16) operated by the Louis August Jonas Foundation (LAJF). There is a boys facility and a separate girls facility in Rhinebeck, New York, 90 miles north of New York City in the Hudson River valley. LAJF is a non-profit organization with a history of more than 75 years and an alumni group which numbers in excess of 5000.

Selection to participate in the Program is highly competitive and is based on intellect (demonstrated academic achievement and an ability to think critically), character (honesty, compassion, integrity), leadership potential (self-confidence, openness and fairness in dealing with others), and individuality (developed abilities and interests). LAJF recruits students worldwide. The Program is non-religious and non-political, though students are encouraged to discuss world affairs, often with guest speakers, and are given the opportunity to attend nearby religious services of their choice. There is no tuition associated with participation in the Program and no one can pay to attend. Boys and girls are selected independent of financial means.

Each Program comprises 60 participants and each year students from more than 30 countries are invited to participate. LAJF believes that youth from diverse cultures and with different life experiences have much to offer each other. Students spend one or two summers as Program participants. Each season includes a core group of about 7 students who are invited back for a second summer.

One of the guiding principles of the CRS program is the belief that there is much to be learned through experience and interaction with other students. All program participants are strongly encouraged to take leadership positions and initiatives in the community while being challenged to explore beyond their limits and seek challenges.

The Louis August Jonas Foundation is guided by the philosophy of its founder, Freddie Jonas, who believed that "Others see the child of today. We see a leader of tomorrow."