Our Leadership Program is for those returning teen campers who have shown great growth and potential in their years at Talisman or mature first-time campers. This program is a requirement for those campers who would like to apply to be a part of Krewe for the current or next year. The Leadership Program includes a paddling, backpacking, and climbing trip, in which the participants are responsible for planning, organizing, and leading the trip. Other activities range from community service to production of a full-campus event. This group will function on their own with guidance from staff on important leadership skills and roles. The Leadership Program is a place to fine-tune and build on the social skills, communication skills, and peer group skills that our adolescents have learned throughout their years at Talisman.

Personal Growth
Talisman Campers enrolled in the Leadership program have reached an age and maturity level at which their ability and willingness to apply skills learned at Talisman can assist them in their transition from self management to leadership. All activities in this session build on aspects of leadership such as decision-making, clear communication, empathy, positive role modeling, and a sense of personal accountability. Discussions aim to help participants integrate what they learn into their lives back home and in their communities.

Activities
During the leadership session, participants are actively involved at every level in the planning of a multi-faceted, high level, wilderness experience. From trip preparation to collaborative decision-making on the trail, participants are constantly engaged in activities that strengthen the self-management, planning and communication skills which are essential in their transition to young adulthood. While participating in this experience, nightly values-driven discussions are held around a campfire, and campers are called to reflect upon their experiences. Participants also are given chances for self-reflection through our guided journaling exercises. While on campus, participants shadow a counselor, produce a whole-camp event, and practice public speaking. All participants are given numerous opportunities to take on positions of responsibility and leadership while on campus. Successful completion of the Leadership Program qualifies a participant to apply for a CIT position.

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