The Gap at Sawmill Meadow is located in South Fork, Colorado.
Designed for those new adults who grew up knowing Jesus and currently feel trapped by expectations of what “should” come next, our vision is to cultivate wholeness for the mind, soul, body and heart that leads to transformed, confident, and abundant life in order to be a thriving adult in the world.
PROGRAM DATES
9-month experience
June 2025 - March 2026
summer experience
June and July 2025
South Fork is known as the “Basecamp for Adventure” and the “Gateway to the Silver Thread Scenic Byway.” It is located in the middle of the San Juan Mountains surrounded by Rio Grande National Forest.
Living in South Fork is “small town” living where everyone knows everyone. And in peak tourist time, the population grows exponentially! The “backyard” playground is some of the most beautiful parts of the country you will ever see.
The cost of a gap year can vary widely. Those programs that are more structured, guided and intentional usually cost more. A quick review of many gap programs point to costs being in the $11,000-$29,000 range with outliers on either end.
program cost
But at The Gap, we do things differently. Our program is structured so that attendees can comfortably cover their costs month by month, directly from their earnings within the program's unique work component.
Here's the breakdown:
Initial Investment: A one-time deposit of $1,100 secures your spot, covering June's accommodation, meals, and adventure activities.
Monthly Commitment: From July to March, each gapper contributes $1,100 monthly for ongoing expenses, totaling $11,000 for the entire program. (Costs are prorated for the summer program).
Sponsor Commitment.*: $2500 one time donation to The Gap or $250/mo for 10 months in honor of the sponsored attendee.
Scholarships - The initial investment, monthly and sponsor commitments cover about 50% of the cost of the program. The remaining cost per attendee is provided by scholarships from donors who believe in the next generation and want to leave a legacy of life change to them.
program benefits
BENEFITS INCLUDED WITH MONTHLY FEES:
Room and board (utilities including internet and access to laundry facilities)
5 breakfasts and 4 dinners, weekly
Custom programming and guest speakers
Adventures in Colorado (monthly for 9-month experience and one-time adventure for summer experience)
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DAY-TO-DAY AT THE GAP
Program study and curriculum will be provided and led by spiritual leaders, experts in career fields and fellow believers who love the Lord and desire to love others like Jesus. The content centers around identifying and embracing the Lord’s creation and perfect plan for each individual, living responsibly and practical skills needed for living as a believer in a secular world.
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JOBS
Service through employment is a key component of The Gap at Sawmill Meadow and is designed to be mutually beneficial for The Gap attendees and the community of South Fork. Serving in the local workforce will provide a means to fund The Gap experience, learn valuable life skills, and practice being the light of Jesus in a secular world.
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ADVENTURES
Colorado is known for its beauty and access to great outdoor experiences. Monthly curated, team building adventures are part of the program at The Gap at Sawmill Meadow. Additionally, each attendee will be encouraged to explore the beauty of God’s creation in all of the seasons in the San Luis Valley.
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MENTORSHIPS
In addition to the onsite host couple and guest speakers, attendees are assigned to a “wise” and “wiser” mentor. Mentors meet with, listen and advise each attendee throughout the program. They help focus each attendee to see all opportunities and challenges through the lens of their strengths, giftings and values and lean into those circumstances that are challenging.
