During sessions 5 and 6, Westwind held its annual Teen Leadership 2 Camp (Teen Lead 2). This is a unique experience for many reasons. The program is two weeks long and it focuses heavily on building leadership skills. It is also a jumping-off point for many exciting things, at Westwind and beyond. Read more to learn about our Teen Lead 2 program and how time outdoors fuels learning and growth.
What is Teen Lead 2?
Teen Lead 2 is a two-week program held each summer. The week is filled with leadership training, adventures, and lasting memories. Campers spend the first week with their cohort, designing and leading activities like campfire and all-camp. They develop self-confidence, self-awareness, communication skills, tolerance for adversity, and a personal leadership style, all while exploring the Westwind site and celebrating what it means to be a camper. Campers focus on learning, empowerment, and growth. During the second week, Teen Lead 2 campers shadow a cabin of campers, learning from the counselor and building camper management skills. Campers are role models for their cabin and are offered structured opportunities to practice being a leader. The program offers endless opportunities to be challenged, practice your leadership skills, and make new friends.
Who are the Teen Lead 2’s?
They are an incredible group of young leaders. They are 16 and 17-year-olds who are passionate about growing as leaders. Some have been coming to Westwind for years, others are new as teen campers. The prerequisites are completing Teen Lead 1 and an interest in working with kids. Completing the program is not a prerequisite for joining staff, but many of our campers go on to be amazing staff members. On the other hand, others venture away from Westwind and are amazing leaders in their lives and communities. While this program is based at Westwind, the skills you learn set you up for success no matter what path you follow.
The Importance of Outdoor Leadership
Teen Lead 2 combines the outdoors with education. We believe that being a leader in getting people outdoors begins with educating future leaders. The skills learned during this program apply throughout many aspects of life. It encourages teens to grow by offering guided opportunities to enhance their leadership skills and develop a personal leadership style. In this environment, Teen Lead 2’s are granted the grace to overcome challenges and learn from mistakes, and the opportunity to succeed in their passions and actions.
**Applications for 2025 will open in December email info@westwind.org with any questions**