LEADERS IN TRAINING (LIT) PROGRAM

AGES:                   16-17 (before June 22)
LENGTH:               8 weeks
RATIO*:                1:6 on trip; 2:24 in camp
CERTIFICATION:  Quebec Camping Association & Emergency First-Aid (8hours)
*Ratio=staff:camper

THE PROGRAM
Trailblazers begin their experience by taking part in a 5 day Voyageur canoe trip, during which each participant has the chance to lead the trip for a part of the day. Trailblazers will be closely involved in preparing their tripping experience as well as participating in various workshops aimed to establish group dynamics and introduce the challenge this incredible program participants are undertaking.

The second session consists of an intensive training program including two weeks of initiative games, team-building activities, and workshops aimed at developing skills in the areas of leadership, group animation, communication and working with children. As well, during this time, Trailblazers are given the opportunity to develop specific skills in various interest groups.

In the final half of the program, Trailblazers are given the opportunity to use their newly acquired skills by assisting camp counsellors in leading and mentoring their cabin/tent groups. Some Trailblazers will also have the chance to shadow program specialists in running a program area. During this time Trailblazers also get the chance to achieve personal goals they set out at the start of the program.

CERTIFICATIONS
Trailblazers have the opportunity to obtain Emergency First Aid and CPR certification. Successful Trailblazer Program graduates will receive a Quebec Camping Assiciation Certificate and are encouraged to apply to work as Junior Counsellors the following summer.

APPLYING TO BE A TRAILBLAZER

*Please note, the Traiblazer program is one of our most popular programs. Our interviews take place during the second half of February. Most summers, once our interviews are completed we do not accept any more registrations for this program. 

1. Complete the Camper Registration form

2. Answer 3 of the following questions* (Please specify which questions you chose)        
 
a)   What do you see yourself doing at Kanawana after this program? Why?    
b) Why do you want to participate in the W.O.L.F. or L.I.T. program? (Please make sure you specify which program you are choosing)
c) What 3 things are you looking forward to the most next summer at YMCA Kanawana?
d) What do you hope to learn in the program?

3. Upon completion of steps 1 & 2, you will be contacted to have a group and/or individual interview in person. For those people not from Montreal, the interview can be conducted over the phone. Interview dates will be announced in the spring.

*If registration was done online please send responses by email to nicolas.garcia@ymcaquebec.org  (subject heading:LIT Application), or by mail with a completed registration form to 1440 Stanley street, 1st floor, Montreal, Qc, H3A 1P7.