Leadership 1: DEL Program - YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth

Our four-week Leadership 1: DEL program is designed to develop confidence and independence in our participants and allow them to grow as leaders.  The program provides opportunities for participants to focus on communication, decision making, teamwork, group leadership, tripping and skill development. Working together to succeed collectively is an important part of the fun, challenge and adventure of being a DEL.

The DEL participants will spend 11 nights on a backcountry canoe trip and the other portion of their month at CQE working on leadership and skill development. DELs practice various outdoor and camp skills during the time they spend at CQE. They develop skills in a diverse range of areas including risk management, outdoor living, group dynamics and interpersonal skills. Under the supervision of CQE staff, DELs learn to navigate, cook, make group decisions, and take initiative in guiding the group, helping them gain valuable experience in outdoor leadership and group management.  

During their remaining time at CQE, the DELs will spend time at camp focusing on personal skill development and leadership training. Each morning, participants work towards achieving advanced levels in two of the following four camp activities: canoeing, kayaking, sailing and windsurfing. During the afternoons, DELs will experience unique and fun creative programs and skill building programs that build collaborative and problem solving skills, while also having a ton of fun! Throughout their 4 weeks, DEL participants will also work towards an Ontario high school credit facilitated by certified educators and CQE staff.

By the end of the month, DEL participants are empowered to step forward as thoughtful, capable, and compassionate leaders, and leave with a unique outtrip experience, a high school credit, leadership & life skills, and memories that last a lifetime!