Lithuanian American Youth Association
Registration is now open!
Project Šaknys
Šaknys is a weeklong summer service trip where Lithuanian-heritage youth (ages 18–35) gather to restore historic Lithuanian cemeteries while camping together. Through hands-on work, shared meals, and meaningful conversations, participants connect with one another and explore their roots in Lithuanian-American history.
Šaknys is graciously funded by the Lithuanian Foundation, meaning that once participants arrive at the project location, all meals, accommodations, and materials are provided.
Project Goals
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Locate, clean, and identify Lithuanian cemeteries and graves
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Learn about the history and heritage of the Lithuanian-American community and experience it in a new way
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Gain a deeper understanding of our Lithuanian identity as Lithuanian-Americans and to discuss the importance of knowing and preserving the history of our Lithuanian community
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Learn about the Lithuanian traditions of visiting and maintaining cemeteries and graves and why this tradition is so important to Lithuanians
Project Overview
Core Program
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Fix fallen gravestones
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Clear overgrown weeds and trees (weed wackers, chainsaws, and other tools)
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Decipher grave stones
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Locate and mark Lithuanian graves
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Level headstones to preserve them and avoid them falling over in the future
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Put up new signs
Afternoon/Evening Program
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Prepare dinner together
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Visit local Lithuanians
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Lithuanian museum
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Learn about Lithuanian- American history
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Evening bonfires and discussions
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Visit and learn about local Lithuanian sites
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Connect with the group participants
Activities
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Lithuanian days festival (Pennsylvania)
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Coal Mine Tour
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Visit National Parks: swim in lakes, hike, etc
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Cliff jumping (optional)
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Learn how to make traditional Lithuanian dishes (šaltibarščiai, šakotis, bulviniai blynai, gira)
Šaknys Registration
The Lithuanian-American Community, together with the Lithuanian-American Youth Association and thanks to the gracious financial support of the Lithuanian Foundation, is proud to continue organizing project “Šaknys” or "Roots". The project will take place August 8-16, 2026 in Pennsylvania. All Lithuanan-American youth (18-35) is eligible to apply. Please submit applications by May 20th.
Participants will spend their time in PA looking for, maintaining, and identifying Lithuanian cemeteries and graves, while discussing the importance of preserving Lithuanian-American history and heritage. This project will help Lithuanian-American youth rediscover the roots and history of our community and experience it in a brand new way.
More information about the project goals, scope, and program can be found in the application.
