Wilderness Leader In Training (4 weeks)

This 4-week capstone leadership program is intended to support and nurture young leaders, preparing them for successful futures as caring community leaders, mentors, and role models. 

During their month at camp, WLIT campers will learn about effective leadership and camper care, develop their personal leadership strengths, and participate in initiatives, teambuilding activities, and adventure programming. While at camp, this program focuses on the development of "soft" skills including leading camp activities, forming positive connections with others, and building strong communication, initiative, and responsibility. WLIT campers have the chance to "shadow" a cabin of campers and their counsellors, as well as a variety of camp classes and activities. This begins with observation and getting to know the group of campers and, over the course of two weeks, WLITs build up to leading activities and programming and acting as a supportive mentor to younger campers. As a group, the WLITs also create and run a program for the entire camp, support the running of morning field games, and take on a range of other programming opportunities. 

Out on their 9-night Algonquin canoe trip, WLIT campers develop their leadership and canoe tripping skills through playing an active role in navigation, portaging, cooking meals, and setting up camp. This trip is an incredible opportunity for campers to challenge themselves, overcome obstacles as a team, and be immersed in the natural world. 

Spending a whole month at camp also provides campers with tons of opportunity to try out various camp activities, participate in lots of wacky games and theme days, and be part of a close-knit group of like-aged peers. This program is often described as a transformative, immersive experience that creates lifelong memories and friendships.