During July 12-14, 2024, the Forage Center held its annual Coastal Promise Field Simulation in Swanton, MD, marking its largest and most diverse gathering at its Maryland location yet with a total of 40  staff, volunteers, and students. Set across 40 acres of rolling hills, woods, and fields, this immersive exercise provided an invaluable hands-on learning experience aimed at preparing participants for real-world challenges in conflict zones and humanitarian crises.

The Forage Center welcomed graduate students from  George Mason University, University of North Carolina/Greensboro, University of North Carolina/Wilmington, and Stockton University. Roleplayers came from Forage Center staff, exercise alumni, and local Garrett County, MD professionals.  Also, as in the past, students from Allegany College of Maryland joined as roleplayers.

The simulation reenacted conditions typical of a humanitarian crisis precipitated by the intersection of a natural disaster and internal conflict. The scenario took place in the fictitious country of Costero that was experiencing wildfires, political and ethnic conflict, and seeing thousands of internally displaced persons seeking safety. This complex scenario aimed to challenge participants with realistic challenges and decision-making scenarios.

This year's simulation uniquely incorporated a holistic approach, emphasizing personal wellness alongside professional development. Participants benefited from yoga sessions designed to promote physical and mental well-being amidst the intensity of crisis scenarios. Role playing camp staff facilitated team building activities and a restorative justice circle, nurturing cohesive team dynamics essential for effective humanitarian response.

Central to the simulation’s philosophy was the cultivation of empathy as a critical skill in humanitarian work. Co-Exercise Director Katreena Blazewicz emphasized the importance of empathy in navigating complex crises, highlighting its role in team dynamics as well as fostering understanding with the internally displaced people of Costero.

Reflecting on her experience, Farzana Walcott, a physician participant and a George Mason student, described the simulation as “one of the most formative - and toughest - experiences of my life. The experiential learning through immersive simulation under realistic crisis conditions is powerful. What better way to learn how to navigate conflict than through peace building?” She also reflected that “the lessons learned apply regardless of your job or background: resilience, patience, critical thinking, decision making, negotiation, team work, collaboration, and most importantly humanity and empathy.”

“This year’s exercise was a huge success. The varied background of the students and staff gave us a chance to tap into diverse perspectives and creative solutions, hopefully paving the way for more humanitarians,”  said this year’s co-Exercise Director Heather Payne.

As participant Boukari Saidou, a University of North Carolina/Greensboro student expressed, “I want to thank the entire team for the amazing training. It's more than just skills, it's a whole new way of approaching things. I'm officially part of the Forage Center family now.”

The Forage Center wishes to extend its appreciation to the many Garrett County individuals and businesses that supported our effort including Stop 'n Save, Brenda's Pizzeria, Lowe's, Mankamyer Chiropractic & Rehabilitation, Simon Pearce,  Moonshadow Restaurant and Bar, and St. John's Lutheran Church Meadow Mountain.

The Forage Center acknowledges that their training site was once the home of the Massawomeck and other Indigenous People and 10% of the net revenue from programs held on this land is donated to the Native American Rights Fund.

For more information on upcoming simulations and how to get involved, visit our  website at ForageCenter.org or reach out directly to our team at admin@foragecenter.org. We look forward to welcoming you to our next transformative experience in Summer 2025. The Forage Center is  also available to hold exercises at academic institutions and other locations.

Photo: 2024 Coastal Promise participants and staff at the Swanton, Maryland field site

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About the Forage Center: The Forage Center, a 501c3 not-for-profit entity, provides educational opportunities and experiential-based training for students, educators, and professionals working in peacebuilding and humanitarian environments. For more information, visit foragecenter.org.