Program organization

 

Our program has three phases for youth ages 10–17. Phase level learning is designed for maturity and skill development ability. Participants are placed in phases based on age and grade—not the order of the phases. No prior phase is required to attend another phase.

 

Phase 1: Group Member Development (Patrol Member Development)

• Aimed at youth aged 10 to 12 and rising grades 5th to 7th.

• Focuses on experiencing the dynamics of a close-knit group, understanding the responsibilities of group membership, and basic leadership skills.

• Eight of the eleven Leadership Competencies are learned.

• Includes an overnight backpacking trip.

 

Phase 2: Small Group Leadership Development (Patrol Leader Development)

• Designed for youth aged 13 to 15, and rising grades 8th to 9th

• Emphasizes small group leadership skills, advanced leadership competencies, and guided opportunities to lead.

• All Eleven Competencies are learned.

• Involves a 1-2 night backpacking trip.

 

Phase 3: Large Group Leadership Development (Troop Leader Development)

• Geared towards youth aged 14 to 17 and rising grades 10th to 12th 

• Covers large-group and small-group leadership skills, offering high-level leadership practice.

• Eleven Competencies are learned with extended and robust discussions.

• Includes a multi-night backpacking trip.

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Youth Leadership Team:

• Youth ages 13 - 17 years, may apply to be on the Youth Leadership Team each August after camp.

• Graduated from Phase 2 or Phase 3

• Age 13 years before Sept. 30th and in 8th grade thru 18 years if still in High School.

• Must commit to attend once a month meetings Sept. - June of each year, attend both weeks of camp, and attend both fundraiser weekends in Nov. and April.

• Youth are able to put all leadership skills previously learned into practice by leading small and large groups during camp.

 

Repeating Phases:

It is common and expected that participants will repeat phases due to their age/grade. This provides them with the opportunity to mature and gain confidence, by allowing the youth to apply the leadership skills they have acquired in a supportive environment. They naturally step-up to lead their peers. This extended practice ensures that they are well-prepared to transition to the next level with a solid foundation of skills and experience.

 

Final phase placement is determined by the White Stag Directors, with age/grade exceptions considered for certain situations.