Hartford’s Camp Courant is expanding its impact on Hartford children through the development of a year-round Leadership Program for graduating campers between the ages of 11 and 15.

The teenage years can be difficult to navigate amidst the rapid growth that this age group undergoes in a few short years. The physical, mental, emotional, and social changes can be overwhelming. The purpose of the leadership program is to provide activities to help these campers develop a better understanding about themselves, the needs of the community, and their impact on the world around them. The goal of the program is to encourage and provide support for the development of long-term positive behaviors, attitudes and actions over these challenging years of growth.

Over 40 campers and their parents have now committed to the program. During the summer the group’s activities focus on teamwork, self-confidence and understanding leadership skills. A special highlight of the program is a weekend leadership retreat held at Camp Sloane in the spring where the campers participate in team activities and games designed to further their understanding of teamwork and leadership.

The emphasis of the Junior Leadership Program is on “Caring for Self, Caring for Others and Caring for Your World.” During the winter months the groups  participate in workshops to develop a better understanding of themselves. Themes include: What is Health and Wellness; Who am I?; Substance Abuse Prevention; Stress Management; Financial Literacy and Public Speaking Skills.

A series of workshops and learning opportunities take place to help the campers develop respect for the needs of others. Topics such as conflict resolution, diversity and volunteerism are included, and a community service project is developed as a result. 

Plans for continuous involvement include a full fledged Counselor-In-Training Program during the summer, and employment opportunities for those leadership campers who complete the full program.

The Junior Leadership Program has the potential to turn around the lives of a group of at-risk children and provide them with the kind of opportunities that lead to rich, full and productive lives.

The Louise and Arde Bulova Fund provided seed money to bring this program to fruition in 1999. Other funding has been provided by Allstate Insurance Company, First Union Corporation, the Lookout Fund, ReliaStar Financial Corporation, United Technologies Corporation and Fleet Bank. Currently, Bank of America provides sole funding for the program. Thanks to all the generous funders who have made this program possible.

E-mail bgibbs@campcourant.org for more information.