Welcome to the High School Leadership Development Program
Summer 2012
Leadership Development Program:
This two week intensive leadership development camp is designed for inspired teens who are motivated to expand their personal leadership skills and strengthen their individual character by participating in teambuilding, service learning, experiential activities and off-site trips.
Program Highlights:
Teen leaders help create their own strength-based environment in which they will live cooperatively, learn about the leader within themselves and gain an awareness of how they can positively impact the world around them.
Teambuilding, group initiatives, low/high ropes and other adventure-based learning will be the focus.
Overnight trips such as caving, hiking and canoeing.
Community service projects.
Program acceptance:
This program requires an application, phone interview and receipt of two references. You may register on-line, but formal acceptance is required. If you are not accepted to the program, your deposit will be refunded. Due to high interest in this program, limited space and leadership requirements, there is an application process. Acceptance notifications will be made on January 16, February 6, March 12, March 26, April 16, and May 2. Space is limited in each session, programs may fill prior to the notification dates listed above.
Counselor in Training (CIT)/Wrangler in Training (WIT) NEW Lifeguard in Training (LIT) Program:
The CIT, WIT program is designed for highly successful graduates of the LDP program. CIT's and WIT's will deepen their individual leadership abilities and learn the skills necessary to be a positive role model and facilitate a life changing experience when working with children. This program includes an off-site trip.
WIT's (Wranglers-in-Training) must have a desire to work with children and horses and have completed the Wranglers resident camp program or have had a minimum of 10 consecutive riding lessons in addition to completion of the LDP program. WIT's will participate in all leadership training with the CIT's and in addition will train with the Barn Manager and mentor with Sherman Lake YMCA wranglers to be comfortable around children and horses.
Program highlights:
Counselors in Training and Wranglers in Training help create their own strength-based environment in which they will live cooperatively, learn about the camp counselor within themselves and gain an awareness of how they can positively impact the children and peers they work with.
A four day adventure trip emphasizing leadership and decision-making skills.
A service learning project and other experiential/adventure learning opportunities.
Training and development of skills and qualities for working with children.
Four days of mentoring by experienced Sherman Lake resident and day camp counselors.
Program acceptance:
This program requires an application, phone interview and receipt of references. You may register on-line, but formal acceptance is required. If you are not accepted to the program, your deposit will be refunded. Due to high interest in this program, limited space and leadership capacities necessary, an application process is in place. Acceptance notifications will be made on January 16, February 6, March 12, March 26, April 16, and May 2. Space is limited in this session, programs may fill prior to the notification dates listed above.
Please note that participation in this program is separate from the staff hiring process at the Sherman Lake YMCA Camp. Successful completion of the CIT/WIT program does not guarantee a position as a Junior Counselor or Junior Wrangler.
Grades: 11th - 12th; Fee: $1046.00 Session: July 8-20, 2012
Register online today or call 269-731-3030 for a 2012 Registration form!
Developmental Lessons
Adventure Based Learning Experiences
Ethical decision making
Goal setting & high expectations
Self-worth
Group building
Diversity awareness
Healthy relationships
Strong friendships
Leadership skill development
Safety & well-being
Personal & social responsibility
Service to others
Stereotypes & social groups
The role of a leader
Independence
Character development
Rock climbing
Canoeing
Horseback riding
Service learning projects
Tree climbing
Low & high ropes courses
Overnight trips
Tent camping
Hiking
Caving
Giants swing
Giants ladder
The Campers
The Staff
This experience is for those who are ready to experience the challenge of living and learning with a small group for two weeks. The coed group of about 22 campers will be located in the Leadership Village.Young men and women sleep in separate yurt tents chaperoned by live-in counselors.
Applicants should be willing to take personal initiative and be dedicated to continuously honing their leadership skills. With a commitment to creating a positive and caring atmosphere, these campers will share an unforgettable experience with their peers.
The Leadership Development Team is comprised of staff who have exhibited the leadership skills this program strives to teach. They are over 21 years of age, are proven role models, and are passionate about working with teens. Josiah Swartz is the High School Leadership Director. He has worked in the LDP/CIT program in the past and is an excellent youth development worker. All staff are certified in First Aid and CPR, and screened through the highest standards of child safety practices, including background checks. In addition, Program Leaders are Wilderness First Aid and Lifeguard certified, and experienced at leading off-site trips.
Application Process:
There is an application process for these programs to ensure the teen camper's have a desire to participate fully and be a positive contributor to the program. Program participant success stems from accepting the most motivated teen leaders. Those accepted to the LDP or CIT/WIT session will:
Be self-motivated, positive, and upbeat
Care about forming positive relationships with others
Understand that leadership is an action that you practice while helping others
Strive to create a safe place where people can truly be themselves
Be willing to create an environment free from the drama and stress typically associated with high school
*Note: space is limited- register early. Typically sessions fill by May.
Download the Teen Leadership Camp Registration Form and Teen Leadership Reference Form below. Complete the registration form and mail it to Leadership Development Program Director, at the Sherman Lake YMCA with your $100 deposit: 6225 N. 29th Street, Augusta, MI 49012 or register online.
Give the reference forms to two adults or mentors who know of your character. Have them fill out the reference form and mail to the address provided. NEEDED FOR ALL CAMP APPLICANTS! These forms must be received and applicant must complete interview prior to your formal acceptance to the program.
If you cannot print off the forms, please contact the camp office at 269-731-3030.
After receiving your registration, a short 15 minute phone interview will be done by a leadership development staff member.
After all materials are received and the interview has been completed, campers will be notified regarding their acceptance to the program. The program acceptance notification dates are: January 16, Feb. 6, March 12, March 26, April 16, and May 2. Program slots fill quickly, please register early.
