YMCA of Barry County

Staff Development Program

STAFF DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Staff Development Programs are designed to teach our older campers counselor-specific skills that would be beneficial to becoming a summer counselor.

Staff Development Program (SDP) Mission Statement

To effectively inform and teach participants the Algonquin culture and leadership skills necessary to be successful as a staff member.

SDP1 (14+)

June 23-28

$150/week

SDP1s will spend a week learning different programs and everything that goes into running a summer camp. Developing both leadership and practical skills, teens will learn how to plan and implement an all-camp game and a cabin activity. The group of future camp leaders will spend the week working together to take the theme of the week and turn it into a fully functional all-camp game. The teens will then run this game for the rest of camp. During the day, participants will also get the chance to observe different jobs at camp, including maintenance, kitchen, and cabin counselors. In the evening, SDP’s will shadow cabin TAPS (end-of-day reflections) and work with the cabin counselor to eventually lead a session at the end of the week.

They will observe all different jobs at camp including:

  • Maintenance
  • Kitchen
  • and Counselors
Register here

SDP2 (15+)

July 7-12 and July 21-26

$300/both weeks

SDP2s is a two-week experience for older campers who sincerely desire to develop their leadership abilities. For the first week of the teen’s knowledge, the SDP 2s will live together in gendered teen cabins to bond and learn from each other. Each day for both weeks, time is spent with other SDPs and the Camp Director in workshops covering various topics, from discussions of behavior management and age characteristics to participating in team-building activities. Additional time is spent with an overnight cabin, allowing the SDPs to engage with their youth campers. During the second week of their experience, the teens will live side-by-side with counselors in overnight camp, developing various skills and gaining new experiences. With the guidance of their counselors, SDPs have a leadership role within their cabin, taking on responsibilities and gaining confidence in leading activities. This program is designed to transition SDPs from being a camper to focusing on becoming mentors and role models for others. Through the SDP program, these teens develop skills that will benefit them in school, at work, and as they grow into strong young adults.

Register here

Financial Assistance

Apply one time annually for your entire family.

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