Camp Leadership Programs
Leadership participants develop tightly knit groups and a sense of fellowship that is rarely found today. If adventure, challenge and learning are important to you, then our leadership programs are the place for you!
At YMCA John Island Camp, we view leadership development as a cornerstone of our program. Becoming a future camp staff member often begins within our leadership training programs. We believe good camp leaders possess a high degree of skill and confidence in the outdoors and a sensitivity to the needs of young people.
Our leadership progression is designed to help young people develop greater self confidence, an ability to work in group settings, a wide variety of outdoor skills, and an appreciation for the needs of younger campers.
John Island Leadership (Overnight)
Prospector Junior Leadership: August 4-8, 2025
Cost: $968.00* +HST
Prospector Junior is a 5-day, 4-night leadership program where campers will enjoy all of the traditional activities that John Island Camp offers while also participating in thought-provoking workshops to help hone their leadership skills.
Campers will participate in regular camp programs and workshop style activities that explore leadership styles, provoke reflection and discover more about group dynamics.
There is an additional transportation charge for bus transportation to camp, locations selected during registration.
Prospector Senior Leadership: August 4 – August 15, 2025
Cost: $1,735.00* +HST
Prospectors Sr is a 12 day, 11 night leadership opportunity for campers to blend the joys of traditional camp activities with valuable leadership development, as well as build on the prospector Jr program!
The combination of activities and workshops focuses on honing leadership skills alongside outdoor adventures during the out trip, creating a holistic and enriching experience. This program is designed to foster personal growth, teamwork, and self-discovery in a unique setting. Participants in this program will take part in a short multi-day canoe or hiking trip.
There is an additional transportation charge for bus transportation to camp, locations selected during registration.
Camper have the option to put their learnings into action by acting as a CIT in one of our Day camp locations upon their return.
Explorer Canoe:
July 14-25, 2025
$1,899.00 +HST
13-15 years old
The Explorer Canoe program is designed for young adventurists who are looking to start their leadership journey at John Island Camp. Campers will spend the first few days at John Island before embarking on a 7 Day Canoe trip (Metagamasi or Killarney). Explorer Campers will also have the opportunity to participate in traditional camp programming such as high ropes, archery, and evening programs. Campers are not required to have any prior trip experience.
Greenway A (26 day)
July 7 – August 1, 2025
$3,530.00 +HST
NEW for 2025!!
Greenway B (19 day)
August 4 – August 22, 2025
$2,470.00 +HST
14-15 years old
The Greenway program is a three or four week leadership experience that combines traditional camp experiences and Back Country Tripping. Participants of the Greenway Program focus on developing their own technical skills as well as learning more about group dynamics and how to effectively work in a team. In addition to the leadership training at John Island, Greenways will embark on an extended Canoe trip in a Northern Ontario location. Locations will vary depending on length of program.
Norquay:
July 7-Aug 22, 2025
$5,888.00
15-16 years old
The Norquay Program emphasizes personal development, communication, perseverance, and inter-personal skills. Participants hone their leadership skills and camp before embarking on a 4 week canoe expedition through the wilderness of Northern Ontario. Although participation in the Greenway program is not a pre-requisite, it is highly recommended that Norquay applicants undergo some form of basic backcountry leadership experience.