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The Camp Ekon leadership programs are designed to teach and mold young leaders of the future. Leaders will participate various activities to build essential team work and leadership skills. The Leaders will learn how to be role models within everyday camp life and in their community as well.

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The Camp Ekon leadership programs are designed to teach and mold young leaders of the future. Leaders will participate in various activities to build essential team work and leadership skills. The Leaders will learn how to be role models within everyday camp life and in their community.

The Camp Ekon leadership experience is split into two groups Leaders in Training One and Leaders in Training Two, or LIT 1 and LIT 2. Each of the two groups will spend time both at Camp Ekon and on a wilderness canoe trip.

LIT 1

LIT 1 is a three week program offered to 15 year olds. It combines regular camp programming with an introduction to leadership. Two weeks of the session is spent on-site at Ekon. The LIT 1 daily schedule has the same structure as our other camper programs. Afternoon and Evening Programs, however, will be a mixture of traditional programming, ropes initiative sessions, and leadership seminars. The remaining week of the program (typically, Week 1 of the program for the girls, Week 3 for the boys) is spent on trip in Algonquin Provincial Park. This is a 5 day 4 night trip experience.

Register now!

LIT 2

LIT 2 is a month long program offered to 16 year olds. For two weeks of the program, the LIT 2s will live in the main house, taking on responsibilities in the kitchen and throughout the main house. Afternoons and Evenings consist of seminars, ropes initiative sessions, helping out in programs, instructions, and all-camps. The LIT 2s will also have a day trip to the Martyr's Shrine in Midland Ontario. Each year, the LIT 2s participate in relevant community service. For the past few summers, we have fostered a partnership with Community Living Parry Sound, in which the LIT 2s plan and run an afternoon of programs at Camp for the CLPS Kids. The other two weeks of the program consist of a ten day trip, with the relevant training and preparation before hand. This trip takes place in Killarney Provincial Park. The LIT 2 program focuses on the Jesuit philosophy of educating the whole person- mind, body, and spirit.

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LITs on Trip

Tripping is among the most cherished memories for many staff and returning campers. Each leadership group will leave the luxuries of camp behind and partake on a canoe trip deep into the wilderness where sightings of moose and rare birds are not uncommon. These leaders will have to test their limits both physically and mentally. While on these trips, teams will be working together to, set up and take down camp each day, propel their canoes through various lakes and transport canoes and supplies over portage routes. These trips provide a valuable team oriented experience, where strong lifelong friendships are formed and great leadership skills are developed. Non-swimmers and anaphylactic campers need to contact the director before registering for the program. Two qualified trip leaders accompany every wilderness trip and practices no trace camping.

Register now!

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Summer 2012

Registration begins in December.

PLEASE NOTE: Full payment of all outstanding camp fees must be made by June 1st. If this is not possible, please contact the office to make late payment arrangements.

Campers receive a free Ekon T-shirt.

Sessions in red and struck through are full.

Girls Leaders One - Age 15 (involves selection process)

Boys Leaders One - Age 15 (involves selection process)

Girls Leaders Two - Age 16 (involves selection process)

Boys Leaders Two - Age 16 (involves selection process)

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LIT 1

LIT 2

What is Wake-up/breakfast/house maintenance?

Each morning the LIT 2s rotate between preparing, serving, and cleaning up after breakfast, and house maintenance. These daily chores rotate and occupy the time when regular campers are taking 1st and 2nd instruction. During 3rd Instruction the LIT 2s participate and help in an instruction.

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What are instructions?

Each morning campers and LIT 1s participate in three instructions. The camp offers a variety of skill building instructions, where campers are taught the skills of swimming, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, ropes, climbing wall, arts and crafts, drama, or basketball. Each camper selects four instruction choices, three of which they are registered in. Campers attend the same three instructions for the entire duration of the session. For many, choosing instructions is one of the most challenging decisions in preparing for camp each summer!

Click here to see a complete list of instructions.

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What happens during afternoon program?

Each afternoon LIT 1s participate in a group activity.

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What happens during afternoon program for LIT 2s?

LIT 2s do not participate in general swim or clubs. Instead they partake in skill building group activities all afternoon. This ranges from group seminars, hut programs, high and low ropes initiatives, to a trip to the Martyrs Shrine, and a community service project.

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What is general swim?

Everyday the campers and LIT 1s have general swim. Campers are asked to find a "buddy" to join them at the waterfront. This is a great opportunity for friends and relatives who don't end up in the same cabin to spend some quality time together. For safety and supervision purposes general swim is mandatory. Campers who do not want to swim must also spend this hour at the waterfront and usually find other ways to pass the time (such as a book, a sand castle, or a game of cards).

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What are LPAGs?

When the regular campers are at clubs, the LIT 1s will work on learning and designing "Leader Programmed Adaptive Games," which are a series of activities geared towards adapting current programming at Camp Ekon towards being more accommodating to those with abilities and needs.

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What happens during free time?

Mass is offered on site before dinner each day. For many campers who choose to take this time to pray together it is often a highlight of their experience at Ekon. The daily mass is celebrated in a non traditional fashion, in that it takes place in the newly built Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Chapel overlooking beautiful Lake Joseph and campers are encouraged to participate, often through being given the opportunity to dialogue about the gospel during the homily. All campers are welcome at mass regardless of their religious affiliation. Other campers may choose to use this time as free time before dinner.

Free time after meals can be spent in the flag pole area or at the Multi-Purpose Court.

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What happens during evening program?

Each evening LIT 1s participate in a group activity.

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The following are lists of what to pack for on-site sessions, tripping, as well as what to leave at home.

Suggestions:

• Old clothes that are not your favourites are always best.
• Clearly mark your child's name on all belongings.
• Expect some items to succumb to the rigours of camp life.
• Odds of clothing returning home are increased if a list of items is put in a pocket of your child's suitcase or knapsack.
• Further suggestions, alternatives and recommendations can be found throughout...

What to pack for on-site camp sessions:

• All medications (please label and pack separately or in the top of suitcase)
• Sleeping bag or blanket and pillow (a fitted bed sheet is recommended)
• Shoes: be sure to have a pair of running shoes (a second pair of shoes or sandals is recommended)
• T-Shirts (3 per week)
• Shorts (2 per week)
• Pants (2 per week)
• Pyjamas, underwear, socks
• Toiletries (biodegradable soaps preferred)
• Sweatshirt or Fleece
• Bathing Suits (2)
• reusable water bottle
• hat/bandanna
• raincoat/windbreaker
• Towels (2 per week e.g. 1 for showers, 1 for the beach)
• Bug Spray, Sun Screen (Please be sure to label these)
• Flashlight (and an extra set of batteries)
• Suggested: Books or magazines to read, a deck of cards, pre-addressed and stamped envelopes, pen and paper to write home, plain white shirt for arts and crafts, laundry bag (extra pillowcase)

Please leave at home:

• Bottled water
• Snacks
• Electronics (iPods, MP3 players, video cameras, Game Boys, radios, etc.)
• Cell phones
• Hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons
• Aerosol cans
• Any valuables that may be lost or damaged

What to pack for trip:

• All medications (please label and pack separately or in the top of suitcase)
• Day clothes: lightweight T-shirt, shorts and a bathing suit
• Pyjamas, underwear, and socks
• Waterproof stuff sack/dry sack (20 L is the appropriate size, and for durability at camp try to avoid thin nylon versions)
• Raingear
• Site clothes: long-sleeved shirt or sweatshirt/fleece and long pants
• Small sleeping bag (needs to fit in the 20 L dry sack)
• Reusable Water Bottle
• 1 pair running shoes or hiking boots
• Site shoes (these should be sturdy footwear that let the air in, like sandals or Crocs)
• A waterproof whistle on a string (like a Fox 40)
• Flashlight
• Toiletries
• Hat/bandanna
• Waterproof sunscreen and non-aerosol bug spray
• Complete change of clothes and a towel to be left at camp in a small backpack

Optional for trip:

• Deck of cards
• Small 'pack' towel
• Book or magazines (please send in a ziplock)
• Journal, supplies to write letters, etc. (please send in a ziplock)
• Camera (disposable is recommended)
• Toque and warm socks for cold nights (especially good for trips later in the summer)

Please email info@ekon.ca with any questions

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Each morning campers (including LIT 1s) participate in three instructions. The camp offers a variety of skill building instructions, where campers are taught the skills of swimming, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, ropes, climbing wall, arts and crafts, drama, or basketball. Each camper selects four instruction choices, three of which they are registered in. Campers attend the same three instructions for the entire duration of the session. For many returning campers, choosing instructions is one of the most challenging decisions in preparing for camp each summer!

Campers indicate their preferences in the instruction form provided on the registration page. We will make every effort to accommodate your choices. However, please be aware that instructions have limited spaces available. All first time campers take canoeing.

Here is the list of instructions:

Swimming

Qualified instructors follow the Canadian Red Cross Aqua Quest Program and Canadian Lifesaving Society Program.

All campers are swim tested on arrival day and those who have chosen this instruction will be placed in their appropriate class level. Parents are asked to provide a photocopy of their child's most recent level attained. Please note that swimming in a lake is quite different from swimming in a pool, which might have an impact on the swim level chosen. Your child will be put in the most appropriate level, at the discretion of the examiner.

Certain levels may not be offered if there is insufficient enrolment. Bronze Medallion (min. 13 years old) and Bronze Cross (min. 14 years old and completion of Bronze Medallion) are only offered during the two-week sessions. These levels will take 2 morning instructions.

FOR ALL WATER SPORTS, AT LEAST AQUA QUEST LEVEL 4 AND COMFORT IN WATER ARE RECOMMENDED.

Canoeing

All first time campers take canoeing. Ekon is a member of the Ontario Recreational Canoeing Association (ORCA). Campers are progressively led through the parts of the paddle and canoe as well as the basic strokes necessary to safely control the canoe. Emphasis is placed on developing the skills to enjoy a safe canoeing experience.

Kayaking

Kayaking helps to develop self-confidence and a sense of independence. The instruction teaches proper entry, exciting manoeuvres, and the different paddling strokes necessary for the safe and efficient use of the kayak.

Windsurfing

This instruction begins with an introduction to the parts of the windsurfer and the proper positioning of the body of the board. While on the water campers are further instructed on the skills of windsurfing by staff in a motorboat.

Sailing

This instruction begins with an introduction to the parts of the sailboat and proper use of the sail. Sailing helps to develop self-confidence and teaches teamwork. While on the water campers are further instructed on the skills of sailing by staff in a motorboat.

Archery

Campers are taught the components of the bow and arrow and the proper stance. With an emphasis on safety and respect for the bow and arrow's power, Archery helps the campers develop skills of concentration and focus.

Basketball

Campers in this instruction are encouraged to develop their basketball skills and knowledge. Campers are taught the basic elements of footwork, dribbling, passing and catching, shooting and defensive techniques. Teamwork and sportsmanship are emphasized.

Ropes Course

The ropes course instruction gives campers the opportunity to develop trust and confidence through a series of group building and personal challenge activities. Low ropes elements develop teamwork and problem solving skills. Challenge by choice and setting personal goals are promoted. We make use of both the high and low ropes elements during this instruction.

Climbing Wall

The climbing wall instruction gives campers the opportunity to develop trust and confidence through a series of group building and personal challenge activities. The initial trust games develop teamwork and problem solving skills. Challenge by choice and setting personal goals are emphasized as campers experience various routes on Ekon's three-story climbing wall.

Drama

Using our own mini-theatre with stage, campers are led through a series of activities to develop communication skills, self-confidence, and creativity. The instruction usually culminates in an original presentation performed by the drama students for the camp.

Arts and Crafts

This instruction offers a wide exposure to a variety of art activities including bead work, crafts, painting, candle making, puppetry, modeling clay, etc. Campers are introduced to the elements of design in a fun and creative atmosphere.

Pottery

Offered only in 2 week sessions. This instruction is an introduction to pottery methods including slab, coil, glazing, and firing. Other 3D sculpture techniques such as wire sculpture and plaster of paris are explored. Campers are encouraged to develop their artistic talents as they enjoy creating their own work at one of our pottery wheels in the studio.

Jewellery Making

When there is sufficient demand, we offer jewellery making. Here we use embroidery thread, bead looms and much more to make anything from hairclips and key chains to bracelets, earrings and our own beads.

Ultimate Frisbee

This instruction is perfect if you already know the game, or are curious to try it. We offer it when there is sufficient demand.

Sports

Anything from soccer and ultimate, to basketball and dodge ball. This instruction is offered with sufficient demand and will involve a variety of sports throughout the session.

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Transportation from Toronto to Ekon

Transportation to Ekon is available at a cost of $40 and departs from St. Agnes Catholic Elementary School Sundays at 2:00 pm. Families driving their child to camp should arrive between 2:00 and 4:00 pm. DO NOT ARRIVE before 2:00 pm. We will not register campers and are not responsible for supervision of campers prior to 2:00 pm.

Directions to St. Agnes School (Bus Pick Up)

From the intersection of Yonge & Steeles

1. Go east on Steeles Avenue (towards Bayview Avenue)
2. Turn right on to Maxome Avenue... if you reach Bayview Avenue you have gone too far
3. Turn left on Otonabee Avenue (the third street on the left)
4. Otonabee Avenue dead ends in a turn around circle
5. The school is on the left and the van or bus will be waiting in the circle for pick-up and drop-off

Do you need a map to St. Agnes School?

If you do, enter your street number, street name, city, and province in the field below. (For example: 1325 Bay Street Toronto Ontario). A map with directions will appear in a new window.

Directions to Camp Ekon

1. Take Hwy 400 north past Barrie
2. When the Hwy splits, take Hwy 69 towards Parry Sound, NOT Hwy 11
3. Go north on Hwy 69 until EXIT #189 (the old Hwy 69 just south of Mactier)
4. Turn right onto Hwy 169 (at Foot's Bay) towards Gravenhurst
5. Turn left onto Hwy 118 towards Port Carling/Bracebridge
6. Turn left on to Muskoka Road #7 (also called Peninsula Rd to Rosseau)... if you reach Port Carling you have gone too far
7. Go through the towns of Port Sandfield and Minett
8. Make a left on to Stanley House Rd (about 10 minutes after Minett - Peacock Rd is just before Stanley House Rd)
9. Go right at the first fork in the road
10. Go left at the second fork in the road, our driveway is 1.5 km on the right

Transportation from Ekon to Toronto

Transportation from Ekon is available at a cost of $40 and arrives at St. Agnes Catholic Elementary School Saturdays at 1:00 pm. Families picking their child up at camp are asked to arrive on Saturday between 9:30 am and 11:30 am.

Parents who wish to have their camper picked up from camp or from the bus by some one other than a legal guardian must supply written authorization to the camp director in advance.

PLEASE NOTE: There is a $25 fee for any bus cancellation after June 1st.

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An article about LIT tripping by Christopher Krall, SJ called "Portaging Life as Leaders in Training" appeared in the Fall 2008 issue of Jesuit Journeys. Click here to read the article. You will need Adobe Reader to open the PDF, which you can download here if you don't already have it.