“I think the program was really successful in teaching me how to train my staff – I really liked how many different aspects of running youth programs were outlined and explored (planning, conflict res, implementing, reflecting, group dynamics).” – 2012 participant “I feel that the way the program was designed really allowed us to achieve our objectives, individually and as a team.” – 2012 participant“I liked that I was challenged to step out of my comfort zone.” – 2012 participant“Excellent tools were given in the planning.” – 2012 participant
“I liked learning new activities and games, plus the time to work with, start building relationship with my summer programming team.” – 2012 participant
“I felt that you brought a real diversity of approaches, techniques, skills and humor to the group and were remarkably good at meeting people where they were at.” – 2012 participant
“I learned everything from being a more effective facilitator to models for planning to appreciating life journeys.” – 2010 participant
“Amazing, empowering, learning environment.” – 2010 participant
“The program used a variety of tools to engage the participants and it was practical.” – 2010 participant
A program for youth, young adults, service providers or supportive adult allies who are interested in getting training in youth engagement and program planning to enhance their abilities as camp counselors, youth workers, mentors, volunteers or recreation staff.
You will share best practices, techniques, games, activities and initiatives which you can use to have fun, engage youth, deepen their experiences, and enhance and build on their strengths and gifts.
The concept of leadership, using an appreciative approach and service learning will be explored as unique ways to engage youth. By creating such powerful program experiences, youth can be their personal best and realize that they have limitless potential to create positive changes in their life, their community and beyond.
Objectives
• To explore what youth programs look like when young people are meaningfully engaged
• To introduce and deepen our understanding of the Tatamagouche ASPIRE model of Educational Design and Leadership and the HeartWood’s Framework for Community Youth Development as program planning tools for youth programs
• To share experiences and best practices related to facilitating engaging youth programs and to explore challenges that occur relating to youth programs
• To create a team building experience and supportive network between participants
• To create an opportunity to practice facilitation in a safe and supportive environment
• To create space for planning in order to apply learning to applications in participants home contexts
This is a joint initiative of the Tatamagouche Centre, HeartWood Centre for Community Youth Development and the Nova Scotia Department of Health and WellnessProgram.
Program Cost: $390 ($152.50 tuition + $237.50 meals/accommodations)
Please register at least 2 weeks in advance to secure your place in this program.