Reflections on leadership

It is the first night of our last session of camp for 2010. I can't believe that the month has flown by so quickly. Coming to the end of the season leads me to look back over the past three weeks, and to think of the change and growth that we've been so lucky to witness at Camp Nagiwa.

One group that particularly amazed me was our LITs (Leaders In Training). All seven of our LITs grew incredibly throughout the three week program, by pushing themselves past their comfort zones and accomplishing so much. From early morning swims to full days of canoe instruction, they came away from their LIT experience with some stellar technical skills. On top of skill instruction, they also wrestled with what it meant to be a leader, and what it looked like for each individual. The LITs were given a chance to put their leadership into practice on LIT Day. This was a day where the LITs were in charge. From running our evening program, scheduling Go time, to running annoucements - they did a great job!

After the first two weeks of sessions at camp, our LITs headed off into the wilderness for an unforgettable canoe trip. The energy that they had when they returned was contagious. I loved hearing their stories of long portages, delicious trip food, and all the challenges they overcame while on trip!

Camp is such a unique place where our campers are given opportunities to be leaders, and the freedom for them to discover how they can uniquely contribute to their communities. I'm so proud of you LITs - thanks for all the memories!!