Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this program different?

Our program is different from most other programs because it is not instructive. This technique is known as discovery learning. Discovery learning is rarely applied but when it has been applied it has been shown to be highly effective. An example of an effective discovery learning program is Michael Mead's program for boys; this program was named one of only two effective programs in creating behavioural change in teenage boys by the Lillian Lincoln foundation in 2001.

Martin Seligman is psychologist who has also created a program in discovery learning that is effective in preventing depression; this accomplishment earned him the title of psychologist of the decade in the 1990's. Seligman's program has been implemented in every school in Australia. Our program is based on research of programs such as these as well as research from many fields of psychology; we have tried to compile all of this information in order to create the most effective program we can.

The aim of our program is to create an environment in which youth are free to discover their own strengths and appreciate the strengths of others. This hand's off approach allows for the youth to appreciate the values that they have learned because these values have come from within themselves. This sense of power is carried in to their everyday lives giving them the confidence to be their own person, and appreciate the individuality of the others around them.

If you are interested in reading more about some of the original material used to develop our program here are some references:
1)    “The Optimistic Child” by: Martin Seligman
2)    “Raising Cain” by: Dan Kindlon, PH.D and Michael Thompson, PH.D
3)    “The evolving Self” by: Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (There is a chapter of this book available on the website that is used in the facilitator training)
4)    “Reviving Ophelia” by: Mary Pipher, PH.D
5)    “The Bully, the Bullied, and the Bystander” by: Barbara Coloroso
6)    “The Tipping Point” by: Malcolm Gladwell
7)    “Towards a Theory of Positive Youth Development” by: Reed W. Larson (this can be found on our website at http://www.yclc.ca/larson1.html)

What can I expect to get out of this experience?
Every mentor in the past has left the program with a great feeling of satisfaction from watching the youth grow and discover themselves over the weekend. The sense of confidence and maturity that emerges from the youth is contagious in many ways and many mentors are deeply moved by some of the profound words coming from such young individuals. This program not only allows youth to see their own magnificence but also allows the mentors to see their magnificence and the contribution they have made to many of the participants lives.

What kind of commitment do I have to make to become involved?
During the program your only commitment is to be present and respectful of the structure and design of the program. As an adult mentor you will be expected to attend a training event the day prior to the program (this occurs on Thursday evening and goes to Friday evening before the youth arrive). The mentors must commit to attending the training as well as the entire program, they will also be asked not to leave the site during the weekend, including to sleep. For volunteers who live locally they may be able to go home during the night. However, because the program location varies from weekend to weekend the accommodations will vary from camping to indoor sleeping arrangements and this can only be determined approximately two weeks before the event. Also, it is important that all adult mentors and volunteers know that it is prohibited to consume alcohol or drugs during the program, furthermore, smoking should only happen in designated areas during the weekend.

What is the Cost?
The costs or fees are set individuaaly by our community partners. Whenever a program is posted the fees if applicable will be posted with the dates.

*Our policy is to make sure that everyone who would like to participate can participate. Therefore, if there is a child or mentor who is unable to afford it we will ensure that they are still able to come.

What do I need to Bring?
You will need to bring the following: a sleeping bag, a flashlight, clothing appropriate for camping. A more complete list will be emailed to you 2 weeks before the event.

What is the site like and can a child with disabilities attend the program?
The program is all outdoors, including sleeping, and many of the events are in the forest; this means the program is not wheelchair accessible. If there is a child who has a disability it will be necessary to discuss this on an individual basis with the parents so that we can be sure the child will be capable of participating in the program. We try to incorporate individuals with disabilities as much as possible, however due to the nature of the sight and the activities it is not always possible for some of the individuals to participate.

What is the back-up plan if it rains?
Many of the events can be converted into indoor events. If it rains there are also back-up events planned in case the program must be done indoors. We try to do as much of the program as possible outdoors; so don't forget to bring appropriate clothing!

What safety precautions are there during the weekend? What if my child has food allergies?
Each event has a safety protocol that involves extra people who are “spotters”. Spotters are individuals there who are placed strategically for the safety of the participants. Each mentor is taught the proper stance before the program begins. Furthermore, there is always an individual on site who is qualified in first aid to deal with any possible emergencies.

We are unable to accommodate individuals with food allergies because all of the food on the weekend will be prepared in advance due to the fact that the program is in camping conditions; this makes it very difficult to accommodate food restrictions. Therefore, individuals with food allergies should bring their own food and we will serve them their food during mealtime.

Can I be in the same group as my family/friend?
No, an important factor in the weekend is that participants are in an unfamiliar environment where they can be themselves and create the character they would like to be over the program. This is vital to the flow of the weekend. When family or friends are present participants tend to revert to the way they act outside of the weekend, such as trying to impress their friends, instead of acting authentically.

If I'm not from an area near an event which is advertised, will it be possible to attend?
It's standard practice for us to make every effort to meet planes, trains or buses so that youth and adults can attend from a distance. If you want to have an event in your area, it's best to come and participate in a scheduled event first.

Why do I have to sign a waiver for my son or daughter's participation if you have insurance coverage for the event?
This is standard procedure in the insurance agency. In order to submit an insurance claim for you, we must first have a signed waiver. All insurance companies have such requirements.

Is this a profit-generating operation?
YCLC CANADA INC. is a non-profit corporation in application. Certain individuals who spend their time beyond being a volunteer are paid at market-determined rates. All of these people have already put in hundreds of hours as volunteers. If there are funds left over from any partnership, the money is put into future programs. So, no, this is not profit-generating.