Great question! We intentionally chose the 'le' spelling of "radicle" instead of the more common 'al' spelling. Why? In botany, a radicle is the part of a plant embryo that develops into the primary root. This symbolism reflects our vision for the Radicle Year—a foundational season for young adults to deepen their faith and establish strong spiritual roots. Through intentional classes that provide a deep dive into scripture, opportunities for personal and communal growth, and meaningful engagement with the local church, we aim to cultivate an environment where faith can flourish. But don't worry, we still think you're radical!

We understand that finances can be a significant challenge. Our scholarship program is designed to assist students facing extenuating circumstances that make it difficult to pay for the program in full. If this applies to you, we strongly encourage you to apply for a scholarship.

To help make participation more accessible, we have intentionally structured the program with ample free time so that students can work 20-25 hours per week while staying engaged in the community and completing their coursework. We wholeheartedly believe that scripture highlights God’s design for work as an essential part of our lives. Genesis 2:15 says, "The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it." Colossians 3:23 reminds us, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men." Hard work is part of our creation story, and we believe that embracing it helps us grow and flourish as productive members of society.

Additionally, students have the opportunity to fundraise for their tuition (similar to YWAM or Capernwray). Please note that gifts of this nature are not tax-deductible in the U.S. Donors can give directly to the student they wish to support or mail a check to:

The Firs 4605 Cable St. Bellingham, WA 98229

Please remember to include the student's name in the memo line of the check. We can accept credit card payments for tuition, however, there will be an additional 3% processing fee included.

As a final option, there are private student loans available for college students. We encourage students to seek financial advice before applying for a student loan to ensure it aligns with their personal financial goals and needs.

Students are encouraged to work on Fridays (after 10:30am) and on weekends as needed. Work is not permitted Monday through Friday mornings or during scheduled program events such as retreats, mission trips, and similar commitments.

Students are expected to fundraise for the spring mission trip, with costs ranging from $1200-$2000, depending on location, airfare, and other expenses. The exact cost will be determined in the beginning of 2nd trimester and is dependent on where Samaritan's Purse is serving in the spring. Fundraising for this trip can begin as soon as a student is accepted into the program.

Unlike tuition, mission trip fundraising is tax-deductible, and all donations must be processed through The Firs’ online donation page to receive a tax receipt.

Example Missions Trip Excursion:

LA Fire Relief with Samaritan’s Purse

In 2025, Radicle + Rooted students traveled to Los Angeles to serve with Samaritan’s Purse, assisting families in the aftermath of devastating wildfires. They helped homeowners sift through the ashes of their properties, engaged in worship alongside the SP team, and formed deep connections—both with those they served and within their own community through shared service.

Students are expected to engage in a variety of work projects throughout the year that provide new experiences, help them understand the nuances of camping ministry (News Flash: it’s not all Big Field Games, Crazy Songs, and Skits!), and support the ministry of The Firs. Projects range from cleaning up after storms and spreading mulch to leading worship or serving at a banquet dinner. We also partner with local ministries for volunteer opportunities, such as stocking food bags at Open Hands, Samaritan's Purse, as well as leading at local youth groups and young adult church gatherings.

We structure our program as a year-long journey of discipleship and growth, where students commit not only to their own development but also to the greater community. As part of this commitment, students are expected to enroll for the full year and will be required to sign a contract agreeing to complete tuition payments for the entire program.

Mid-year changes can be disruptive—not only to the group dynamic but also to the deep work God is doing in each student's life. Growth can be uncomfortable, but we believe that by honoring your commitment to discipleship, you are saying yes to allowing God to move in powerful ways.

We do understand that extenuating circumstances may arise. In such cases, students may submit a formal request for review, and exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.