Leader In Training (LIT) Program

The LIT is a one-month program for candidates who are 15 years of age as of January 1st. A second round of acceptance will take place for candidates who are 15 by June 30th (based on availability). Throughout the month, participants will be encouraged to begin thinking as a leader, while still enjoying the freedom of program selection each day. Participants work towards earning their Bronze Medallion or Bronze Cross during the program.

The dedicated LIT staff team will guide these candidates throughout their month experience as they learn and grow, while still engaging in personal recreational pursuits. The Camp Can-Aqua LIT program has two distinct program focuses:

• Canoe Trip A 6 day trip gives participants the opportunity to learn more about the preparation, organization and leadership of a canoe trip. The canoe trip takes place nearby in the AnneStuther Tripping Loop. An LIT Director supervises each trip group with the support of an alumni support staff.
• Leadership Skill Development The Camp Can-Aqua LIT program offers a unique approach to skill development. Half of each day is devoted to program requirements, which involve swimming, leadership and trip skills preparation. From there, LIT’s take to the Camp Can-Aqua Programming Board each day to select the other programs which they wish to participate in. Not only do LIT’s have full access to all elective program choices but they will also benefit from team programs throughout the month.

Junior Councillor Program (JRC)

The Camp Can-Aqua JRC represents a big step in a transition from a camper to a counsellor. This program is one month in duration and is available during July or August Camp each year. JRC’s reside in their own cabins and are assigned to specific camper cabins based on age preferences and availability. Candidates will divide their day between personal development and as a support to their assigned cabin where they will eat meals, socialize at rest hour and support during unstructured times at camp.

The focus of the JRC program is to develop and enhance the soft skills of exceptional leadership. In addition, candidates will train to complete their Standard First Aid, Level “C” CPR and their National Lifeguarding Level (NLS).

Throughout their month at camp, JRC’s must balance skill development, with program implementation, advanced trip skills and cabin based leadership. In addition to their own skill development, they will also represent Camp Can-Aqua as Leadership Ambassadors, as they tour partner Ontario Summer Camps.

Throughout the month, the JRC group will participate in Kindred Sessions on the following:

• Leadership Skills
• Working within a team
• Ages and Stages
• Role Modeling
• Risk Management
• Developing a community with campers
• Sensitive Issues o Leadership Style/Sigma Leadership
• Health and Safety When Leading a Team
• Active Listening & Communication Skills
• Acceptability and Integration

Can-Aqua JRC Trip

This six day trip challenges each participant providing them with an opportunity to organize and implement one day of their journey. The JRC outtrip location changes each year. A JRC Director supervises each trip group with the support of an alumni staff member.

A highlight of the program is the opportunity to plan and implement full camp programs from section based to camp wide games, including the renowned “Can-Aqua Games” at the end of the month.