TLS Session 2 Camp Check in: July 23, 2:00pm Camp Check out: August 19, 12:00pm

2017 CAMPER GUIDE

TRAVEL AND SERVICE PROGRAMS LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT SERVICE LEARNING CULTURAL ENGAGEMENT

Table of Contents INTRODUCTION ...... 3 2017 TSP CALENDER ...... 3 ABOUT TSP ...... 3 Program Goals ...... 3 PARTICIPANT ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE ...... 4 About Check Ins/Orientation ...... 4 About Debrief/Check Outs ...... 5 PACKING ...... 5 About Your Bicycle ...... 5 Clothing and Equipment ...... 6 Personal Property ...... 6 PARENT/PARTICIPANT WEBINAR ...... 6 TSP TRIP LEADERS...... 7 LEADERSHIP TRAINING ...... 7 COMMUNICATION ...... 8 BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS ...... 8 Non-Negotiables ...... 9 PROGRAM SAFETY ...... 9 Additional Safety Rules and Procedures for TLS ...... 10 HEALTH CARE & MEDICATION ...... 11 SPENDING MONEY ...... 12 SWIMMING ...... 12 FOOD ...... 12 SPIRITUALITY / CHAPEL / GRACE ...... 13 PROGRAM RESEARCH ...... 13 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ...... 13

2 INTRODUCTION

Congratulations! The Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA is excited to have you take part in our Travel and Service Programs this summer. Your program requires a high level of commitment, as you will be challenged mentally, physically and socially. Keep in mind that your program will be very different from the in-camp experience at Chimney Corners Camp and Camp Becket. By the very nature of these programs, you must be able to exercise a higher degree of decision-making and accept greater responsibility for your own actions.

The following packet provides you with information and resources to help you start to prepare for your summer. Please read through the entire packet carefully, and give the TSP office a call if you have any questions. 2017 TSP CALENDER

DESCRIPTION DATE Program Placements Participants are emailed their program and paperwork January 23 Announced checklists Paperwork Due Deadline for first round of paperwork – see checklist March 1

TSP Leaders Announced TSP will email participants their leader bios Mid March

TSP will host a webinar to help you learn more about your TSP Online Presentation March program. See Parent/Participant Webinars for more information.

Paperwork Due Deadline for second round of paperwork – see checklist May 1

Program Itinerary TSP will email groups their program itinerary Early May

TSP Leaders will call to speak with parents and participants Leader Phone Call Late June before arrival at camp to introduce themselves.

ABOUT TSP The Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA offers three different leadership development opportunities: International Camper Exchange Program (ICEP), Teen Leadership & Service (TLS) and Yellowstone Adventure & Service (YAS). All Travel and Service Programs include a two to three day, in-camp orientation. Our participants carry the responsibility of conducting themselves in a manner which represents the YMCA mission and values. Upon their return, participants are required to spend two days at camp debriefing and sharing their experiences with the campers at Camp Becket and Chimney Corners Camp.

Program Goals YMCA youth programs like these equip teens with tools that strengthen who they are and allow them to make significant contributions in the world.

Leadership Development Learning and practicing techniques of positive leadership in group situations. Participants will work with their leaders to develop their leadership skills and will complete an evaluation to document their progress. Each participant will have an opportunity to serve as Leader of the Day (LOD).

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Service Learning Providing physical labor, humanitarian service or a combination of both to heighten the importance of volunteer service for the benefit of others.

Cultural Understanding Connecting participants on ICEP Programs to new cultures including teen interaction, homestays, and cultural activities.

Environmental Awareness Challenging teens to think and live in a globally sustainable manner. Participants will learn and practice Leave No Trace Wilderness Ethics.

*For more information about your child’s specific program, please visit our website. PARTICIPANT ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE All TSP trips begin and end at camp. Each program will start with a two day on-camp orientation before departure and finish with a two day debrief before being picked up by parents. Unless otherwise noted, all check in and check outs will be at the Chimney Corners Activity Barn across the street from the administration parking lot. Please park in the lot and go to the barn to meet TSP staff. It’s very important that campers attend the full program including orientation and debrief. Please do not ask to skip orientation or any part of your program.

The following is a list of camp check in and checkout times for all TSP trips. The arrival and departure time includes the orientation and debrief at camp. The times listed are when parents should be at camp to drop off/pick up campers. Please arrive on time! Arrival: Check-in Departure: Check-out YAS 1 Blue June 25, 12:00pm July 22, 2:00pm TLS 1 June 25, 2:00pm July 22, 12:00pm ICEP Japan June 27, 10:00am August 1, 12:00pm ICEP Uruguay June 27, 2:00pm August 1, 2:00pm ICEP Peru June 27, 4:00pm August 1, 10:00am ICEP Australia July 1, 12:00pm August 5, 12:00pm ICEP Vietnam July 4, 12:00pm August 8, 2:00pm ICEP China July 4, 2:00pm August 8, 12:00pm ICEP Sweden July 8, 12:00pm August 15, 10:00am ICEP New Zealand July 11, 12:00pm August 15, 12:00pm ICEP Chile July 11, 2:00pm August 15, 2:00pm YAS 2 Green July 23, 12:00pm August 19, 10:00am TLS 2 July 23, 2:00pm August 19, 12:00pm

About Check Ins/Orientation All check-ins will take place at the CCC sign barn across from the administration center. As soon as you arrive for your check-in, your trip leaders will be on hand to meet you and help you with your luggage. Families will be asked to check in with TSP staff, submit any missing paperwork, and turn in all camper medications prescription and non-prescription (more about meds later in this packet). TSP Staff will hold a brief meeting with families to introduce participants and go over emergency contact information and health procedures. From there, you’ll say 4 goodbye to your family and will jump right into orientation activities with your group. The check-in typically lasts about an hour and a half. Lunch/snacks will be available.

You will have about three days for in-camp orientation. During this time you will be busy doing teambuilding games with your group, going on practice rides and learning basic bike maintenance, learning more about your program, and taking part in leadership activities. You will also have a swim assessment and visit the infirmary for a routine health check. You won’t be following the typical camp schedule, but you will still be expected to follow all camp rules, such as wearing camp-appropriate footwear. Orientation will take place at either Chimney Corners Camp or Camp Becket, and your debrief will take place at the opposite camp as your orientation. For example, if your orientation is at CB, your debrief will be at CCC.

About Debrief/Check Outs At the end of your program, you will spend two days at CB or CCC for your debrief. Most of your time during the debrief will be spent preparing a slideshow presentation for the check-out, but you will also meet with the trip leaders to discuss your leadership growth and spend time with your friends reflecting on your trip.

During the check-out, the group will share their experiences with their families by presenting a slideshow presentation in the CCC sign barn across from the administration center. Once the presentation is over, the group will say their goodbyes to one another and will return home with their families. The check-out typically lasts about an hour and includes lunch/snacks. PACKING Campers can access their packing list on our website.

About Your Bicycle For maximum enjoyment and hassle-free touring, it is essential that your bicycle be properly maintained and serviced. Lack of preparation will undoubtedly lead to bicycle breakdowns, which will hold up the entire group. It is recommended that a bike shop specialist tune up your bike. A do-it-yourself tune-up is not enough. Our trip will consist of over 3 weeks on fully loaded bicycles. The extra weight puts additional stress on the bike. When having your bike tuned up, emphasize to the mechanic that you will be bicycle touring. Once in camp, our orientation will include learning how to make adjustments and minor repairs to your bicycle. Any advance preparation on your part will be extremely valuable. A quality bicycle is the best means by which to avoid breakdowns. Department/chain store brands should be avoided. A 21-speed (minimum) bicycle is highly recommended. Your bicycle should be properly fitted to you. The bike shop mechanic will be able to adjust the seat and handlebars to your dimensions. Touring bikes are generally lighter, but mountain bikes can be fitted with light touring tires.

Please use the following checklist to insure proper tuning and adjustment of your bike.

TIRES Should still have tread, no cracks in the rubber, 1 1/4" width recommended. Mountain bike tires not suggested. You must bring at least 2 extra tubes with you.

CHAIN Should be cleaned and lubricated. Should be checked for wear and stretch.

SEAT Should be adjusted to proper height.

HANDLEBARS Should be adjusted to proper height. If not padded, wearing cycling gloves will be helpful.

PANNIER Essential!! This will support your panniers for the entire trip. RACK Spring-loaded bookracks are NOT recommended. Blackburn makes quality racks.

5 WHEELS Should not be warped or dented. No spokes should be missing. Should be "trued" by bike shop mechanic.

BRAKES Shoes should not be excessively worn, and should make full contact with rims. Should be adjusted so that it is very difficult to squeeze brake levers all the way to handlebars.

CABLES Should be adjusted, lubricated, and have no frayed ends.

HUBS, BEARINGS Should be checked, cleaned and lubed. AND CRANK

DERAILLEUR Should be adjusted properly. Rider should have full use of all gears.

TOE CLIPS/Cages Optional, but will greatly increase your pedaling efficiency. Only use these if you are familiar with them.

HELMET Specifically certified for use while biking.

2 WATERBOTTLES Extra water bottles and a water backpack are also highly recommended. AND HOLDERS

AIR PUMP, Both optional. Leaders will have an air pump. Rear mounted kickstands work well. KICKSTAND

Clothing and Equipment TSP packing lists have been thoroughly vetted by participants on our programs and include items that past groups have found helpful and/or necessary. We encourage families to stick to the packing guidelines and contact us with any questions. Keep in mind that our trips are not rugged experiences and it is not necessary to buy top of the line equipment for these experiences. Typically items and clothing that participants have at home will work fine on a program; however there are a few essential items for each program (e.g. sleeping bag, rain jacket, hiking boots), that are marked as important on the packing this. Many of these items can be borrowed from friends or bought for significantly less at less expensive retailers.

Participants should not bring cell phones or any electronic device that can access wifi. Participants who bring drugs, weapons, alcohol, drug paraphernalia or cigarettes to camp will be dismissed from the program.

Personal Property The Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA assumes no responsibility for loss or damage by any cause to personal property of participants. Travel and Service Program participants are responsible for their belongings. We strongly encourage participants to think carefully about the items they bring on program. Thefts have occurred on past trips and it is important that if participants choose to bring valuable items, they know they are ultimately responsible for caring for them on program.

PARENT/PARTICIPANT WEBINAR In order to accommodate as many families as possible, TSP is now hosting online presentations that you can participate in from home. TSP will send out reminder emails as the date approaches. These meetings are not required, but we highly recommend that you attend – you will have the opportunity to learn more about TSP staff and the programs. Topics covered include but are not limited to: packing, service projects, leadership development, emergency communication, trip leaders, medical and emergency procedures, spending money, etc.

Our webinars are hosted by GoToMeeting. We’ll email families detailed instructions on how to attend. The meeting will be recorded so you can view it at a later date if you are unable to attend the live version. 6 TSP TRIP LEADERS Each program is led by two adults (21 years or older) who have proven to be caring and competent individuals. We look for leaders who have been recognized as positive role models for young teens, are mature, responsible, able to problem-solve effectively, and understand the objectives of the Travel and Service Programs. About 90% of our leaders have experience working for BCCYMCA as counselors, BOC facilitators, or prior TSP leaders. Those who come from outside our organization have a variety of experiences that make them qualified for these programs including teaching experience, outdoor leadership, trip guiding, and social work. Each leader of our Travel and Service Programs is required to go through an interview process and participate in a training program prior to the beginning of their assignment. All leaders are also certified in CPR, Wilderness First Aid, and life guarding for programs with swimming. Participants will be emailed bios of their leaders in the spring. LEADERSHIP TRAINING Leadership Development is one of the program goals for all Travel & Service Programs and is a topic that will come up in various ways throughout your TSP experience.

Orientation Activity Once you arrive at camp your trip leaders will run an activity to help you identify the leadership style you typically assume in a group setting. The activity will give you a chance to see the leadership styles of everyone on your trip and to discuss different characteristics associated with each style. Leadership is certainly more complex than just running an activity and suddenly knowing exactly what type of leader you are. We see this activity as a shared starting point for everyone in the group and a way to have common terminology as you develop your own understanding of leadership. Your trip leaders will continue to refer back to the different styles of leadership and their characteristics throughout the program.

Leadership Record and Mentoring During orientation your trip leaders will also introduce you to your TSP Camper Leadership Record. The Camper Leadership Record is a packet of questions focused on leadership and personal goals that you will fill out with your leaders’ guidance. Three times over the course of the trip, you will meet with one or both of your leaders to have one-on-one conversations about your leadership growth, your goals for the program, and any issues or concerns you might have. The leaders will use this time to delve deeper into your responses in your packet. These meetings can be a very helpful time to give and receive specific feedback on how the trip is going and goals you have for the future. At the end of the summer your parents/guardians will receive copies of your completed Camper Leadership Record.

Demonstrating Leadership on Program* *Derived in part from the National Outdoor Leadership School, for more information visit: http://www.nols.edu/about/leadership/leadership_roles.shtml

Self-Leadership The most important way to demonstrate your leadership on a day-to-day basis is through Self-Leadership. Self- Leadership means being aware of your needs and making choices that promote your health and happiness. This can include making sure you are staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, eating healthy food, fostering positive relationships, etc. It also means demonstrating an awareness of how your actions affect others in the group.

Active Followership Throughout the program we are also looking for you to demonstrate leadership in the form of Active Followership. Active Followership means doing what you can to help support the Leader of the Day and taking initiative to support a positive group experience. This includes but is not limited to: helping others, noticing a task or problem and doing something about it, contributing to group discussions, and generating ideas.

Leader of the Day You will be designated the Leader of the Day, or the LOD, at least once over the course of your program. You may be working on your own as the LOD or with one of your peers as co-LODs. On your program, an itinerary has been 7 established ahead of time to give structure to every day. As the LOD, your responsibility is to look at the itinerary and work with your trip leaders, your host or service partners, and your fellow group members to help ensure the day runs smoothly. The days you are responsible for could be as varied as a day-long service project in the pouring rain, getting the group organized and to a campground on time, or having a completely unscheduled day that needs to be planned out. Regardless of the day’s events, you will be asked to delegate tasks to your peers to help with the day’s responsibilities and will have an opportunity to lead Cabin Chat or group debriefs.

We encourage you to start looking for leadership opportunities at home, in school, on the playing field, and in youth organizations. Reach out to peers and adults to get their views on leadership and take time to think about the following questions before the summer:

 What does leadership mean to me?  Think of a few people you consider good leaders. How were these people similar? How were they different? What specific skills or characteristics did each person have?  What are some skills I already have that make me a good leader?

COMMUNICATION TSP participants are not permitted to bring cell phones or any device with wifi access (even if you can disable it) on program. TSP staff work hard to create programs that foster independence and give participants a place to grow and experience new things away from the influence of family and friends back home. We have found that the use of cell phones and internet keeps participants too connected to what’s happening at home and holds them back from fully engaging with their TSP experience.

Aside from the use of cell phones/wifi, there are plenty of ways for participants to contact home over the summer:

Mail: Leaders will help participants purchase stamps on the program so they can write home if they choose to. Parents will also be provided mailing addresses to our host Y so they can mail letters/packages to campers throughout the program.

Phone: Campers will be given the opportunity to make calls home a few times throughout the program. Not all participants choose to call home and leaders will not regulate who has called and who has not. We strongly encourage parents to be flexible with their expectations for communicating with their child. Typically not hearing from participants means they are immersed in the program (which is a wonderful thing!). We encourage families to assume they will not hear from their child, and be pleasantly surprised when they do. For domestic trips, leaders will have a cell phone for campers to use to occasionally call home.

Email Updates: TSP staff will update parents throughout the program via email. Parents will receive notification of when the group has arrived safely after flying and will then get email updates roughly once a week on what the group is doing. Consistency of these emails will depend on how often the group has access to email, but on average, most groups will be able to email once per week. TSP will also update parents of other pertinent information such as major flight delays, major itinerary changes, etc.

BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS All TSP staff members have been selected based upon their ability to work effectively with teens. We go to great lengths in our staff training program to teach staff positive discipline techniques that guide and encourage teens as well as how to create clear boundaries and expectations of behavior.

8 At all times staff are guided by the principle that all youth and adults deserve to be treated in a respectful and caring manner. Campers are expected to treat fellow campers and staff with respect and to abide by all established rules. All rules are established and discussed during the orientation period. Each individual is accountable for his or her own actions. Campers are expected to participate in a wide variety of daily duties such as setting up and breaking down camp sites, preparation and clean-up of meals, and maintaining the cleanliness of their lodges/program space and vehicles in which they are transported.

If behavioral problems do arise, your trip leaders will meet with you to discuss the situation. If the problem persists, the Program Director and/or your parents may be included in the discussion on how to best move forward. In the event the problem does not improve, or when one camper's actions are detracting from the experience of others, the camper may be sent home. The Program Directors have final say in all matters relating to a participant’s dismissal from a program.

Campers sent home because of behavioral problems will not be entitled to any refund of fees and parents will be responsible for any additional transportation costs incurred. Campers dismissed for behavioral reasons will not be invited to participate in BCCYMCA programs the following summer.

Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA programs are not designed for nor is the staff trained to handle campers with severe emotional disturbances, chemical dependency, violent behavior, or campers who routinely violate rules and policies.

Non-Negotiables There are some actions that require immediate dismissal from TSP programs. These actions, referred to as our non-negotiables, include but are not limited to: 1. Smoking 2. Illegal activity—ex. shoplifting 3. Consumption of alcohol 4. Sexual activity 5. Sneaking out/Running away from the group PROGRAM SAFETY Safety is the top priority of the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA. While the staff will make every reasonable effort to minimize exposure to the known risks associated with the programs, all hazards cannot be foreseen. By participating in our programs, participants and their parents willingly and knowingly assume all risks/hazards associated with participation in a Travel and Service Program.

Travel and Service Program leaders are required to follow specific policies related to water safety, transportation, communication and other high risk areas. The trip leaders will discuss rules, policies, and safety techniques during orientation. As a participant, you need to be actively involved in ensuring your own safety. This includes informing your leaders if you feel sick or unsafe; being mindful of your surroundings (e.g. busy roads, cultural differences related to dress, avoiding untreated water, etc.); staying hydrated, well-fed, and getting enough sleep; and so on. If you have any questions or concerns, immediately inform your trip leaders or contact TSP staff.

In the event of illness, injury, family emergency, or behavioral problems that necessitate a participant leaving a program early, the following steps will be taken:

9 1. Leaders will notify the TSP Director. 2. TSP Director will communicate with parents and coordinate logistics for the return trip home. Please note: BCCYMCA does not guarantee that participants will be supervised on their flight home. This is dependent on the airline. 3. Parents are responsible for any expense incurred due to returning early.

Additional Safety Rules and Procedures for TLS

Non-negotiable Rules for Biking

1. Always wear a helmet properly. 2. Adhere to all traffic rules and regulations. 3. No night riding! 4. Single file riding only. 5. Only one person on a bike. 6. Keep adequate spacing between cyclists, especially when raining. 7. Passing is permitted only if a leader deems that there is adequate visibility & space. 8. Stay in control when going down a hill. 9. Do not swerve up a hill; it is better to walk uphill than swerve. 10. Give ample warning to cars and avoid quick stops or turns. 11. Get off the road completely when stopping. 12. Rain or bad weather: Thunder or lighting – STOP and find shelter with your bike group. Do not resume until both have not been seen or heard for at least 15 minutes. The same applies to extreme weather – e.g. hail and heavy winds. Good visibility/light traffic and drizzle – acceptable to ride. Cold rain – make sure everyone is dressed appropriately, make frequent checks. Heavy Downpour – regroup and ride only if visibility is greater than 500 ft. Heavy traffic and rain – consider stopping or walking with bike group to a safe location to wait until better visibility. 13. A leader is always in back. 14. Participants may stop with their bike group for water or a bathroom, but they must leave bikes visible for other bike groups. 15. When you have more than two lanes of traffic, ALWAYS have a leader on each side of the road when crossing. 16. Groups must walk bikes in and through parking lots. 17. Everyone will have a reflective flag attached to the back of the bike and wear their reflective vest over all articles of clothing including jackets and backpacks while biking. 18. Regroup at top of hills. 19. Be aware of dogs. 20. Wear proper clothing: Closed-toe shoes, shirts with sleeves and shorts/pants.

10 Group Riding

During your orientation at camp, your group will go on practice rides to learn the proper techniques for communicating and traveling together while biking. In general, the safest way for large groups of people to bike together is to break into smaller biking subgroups of 3-7 riders. Within your subgroup, you need to maintain enough distance between yourself and your fellow bikers so that you are not too close together (about 2-3 bike lengths apart), but you also need to be close enough together so that cars can easily pass your subgroup. As a point of reference, your subgroup should usually not extend beyond the length of a school bus, and you should always be able to easily see the biker in front of you and behind you. You should never be biking alone on your program. A trip leader is always at the back of the last subgroup. By following this system, it is easier to keep the group together and communicate throughout the ride.

Whenever you come to an intersection or confusing point in the route, a decision has to be made regarding which way to go. The front biker (and both leaders) will have a map and be aware of the route.

 Rolling Stops: When the first subgroup gets to a confusing intersection or when a left or righthand turn needs to be made, the group will wait for the next subgroup to arrive. Once the 2nd subgroup has arrived and is notified of which way to go, the 1st subgroup will continue on the designated route. The 2nd subgroup will wait for the 3rd subgroup (if applicable) to explain the directions before they continue on the designated route.  Full Stops: The first subgroup will get to a safe place off the road and wait for all other subgroups to arrive. Full stops will be taken periodically throughout longer biking days so everyone can check-in, rehydrate, eat snacks, and rest altogether. Full stops should be taken at the top of large hills, at designated check points, and if the entire TLS group hasn’t met up for half an hour.

GENERAL RULES OF GROUP RIDING

1. NEVER pass the front biker in a subgroup; if they are stopped, you must stop there too. If your subgroup is getting too spread out, the front riders need to slow down so everyone remains together. 2. Always be communicating with your subgroup—you are a team and need to look out for one another. Alert your fellow bikers about potholes, gravel on the road, if you are slowing down, any time you need to stop, etc. 3. Support each other and pass along joy; rolling and full stops are a great time to say hi & chat. 4. If you have doubts about which way to go, wait for a trip leader.

What if my subgroup gets lost or split up? What if I get lost?

Stop immediately in a safe location. Wait for the other riders/subgroup to catch up. If the rear leader does not come within half an hour, you can ask a motorist passing by if he/she saw bicycles with orange flags— there might be a bike maintenance problem.

If there are no signs of the leader or other bikers, the participant(s) should leave his/her bike where the flag is visible by the side of the road, find a phone, and call Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA – all participants will have laminated emergency contact cards. HEALTH CARE & MEDICATION Upon arrival to camp, you will turn in all prescription and non-prescription medication to the health center. Please be sure all medication remains inside its original packaging and that you have copies of any prescriptions from your doctor. During your orientation you will also receive a routine health screening at the infirmary.

Before leaving on your program, all of your medication will be returned to you. On the program, you will be responsible for administering your own medication. It is essential that you are comfortable taking your own medication and that you have practiced this ahead of time. The leaders are trained in Wilderness First Aid and CPR and will handle minor illnesses and injuries. They will also carry a medical kit that contains commonly used non-

11 prescription medications. If advance care is needed on program, the trip leaders will get you to a clinic or the nearest doctor. When you return to camp, you will once again return your medications to the infirmary and will receive a post-program health check. SPENDING MONEY All Travel and Service Program components are included in the tuition. However, many participants choose to bring additional spending money to buy souvenirs. We recommend that campers bring $200 in either US dollars or on an ATM card (VISA or MASTERCARD). Our aim is to help you manage money wisely and keep your expenditures within reasonable bounds. Keeping track of your money and spending it carefully all reflect positive self-leadership.

In the event you need more money, or if for some reason your debit card is not working, there are ways for your leaders to provide you with additional funds. Our leaders carry credit cards with access to ATMs and can issue spending money on an as-need basis with parent/guardian approval. Please note there is a fee incurred to do this that will be billed to families typically ranging from $5-$10. SWIMMING Swimming is not a main activity of TSP programs; however, some programs in warmer climates do have opportunities for swimming. You will be given a swim assessment on the first day you arrive, similar to normal in- camp procedures. As a result of your performance during the assessment, swim levels will be determined and will regulate where you can swim and what equipment you might use. In all programs, swimming will take place only with lifeguards present. FOOD During orientation and debrief, groups will eat in respective camp dining halls. Types of meals and meal options on trip will vary based on the program. We make every effort with our partners, leaders and host YMCA organizations in the U.S. and abroad to ensure that well- balanced and nutritious meals are provided to our participants. In order to help us serve you better, we request that you notify us of any special dietary considerations of which you would like us to be aware.

There may be a number of situations in which you will encounter foods and dishes which are quite different from what you would usually eat at home. This is but one aspect of the whole experience, and you are encouraged to be open to new eating habits and to try new dishes when they are offered to you. For TLS and YAS participants, each group will be making their own food and menu choices based upon a predetermined budget, the food stores, resources at hand, and the culinary creativity of those planning that day's meals. While our program leaders will make efforts to accommodate special dietary needs, we do ask that you understand that in many situations, choices and availability of food may be limited. Vegetarian options will always be available, although they may not be what you are expecting. It is especially important that you inform us of any eating irregularities, so that our staff can be aware of the situation and be prepared to handle it effectively. It is also important that you notify your trip leaders if you are hungry and feel you are not getting enough to eat.

In all of our programs there will be occasions when the group is eating out. In those situations a set amount of money from the group budget will be assigned. If participants select menu items which exceed the budgeted amount, the difference will be paid by the individual.

12 SPIRITUALITY / CHAPEL / GRACE The YMCA, Camp Becket and Chimney Corners Camp reflect a faith in God and the Judeo-Christian values of honesty, caring, respect and responsibility. As part of the Travel and Service Program orientation, you might participate in some of the all-camp programs, like Chapel, which is an ecumenical service held in each camp every Sunday. Readings from the New and Old Testament, as well as other spiritual and inspirational stories, original skits, plays and music are a central part of the program. All campers and staff are expected to attend Chapel and campers may take part in the planning and performance of the Chapel service. During the services, we encourage campers and staff to contribute to YMCA World Service, which aids YMCAs in other countries and various domestic projects, such as the General Convention of Sioux YMCA.

While at camp, a grace is offered at each meal. Grace is chosen by the camp staff and reflects the diverse spiritual community of our camps and our Judeo- Christian tradition.

Due to the cultural educational component of Travel and Service Programs, participants may experience spiritual practices different from their own faith. All participants are required to attend all of the program components of their specific program. PROGRAM RESEARCH There are many resources available to you to learn more about your destination:

 Visit your program’s resource page on the Becket-Chimney Corners website. The resource page contains extra copies of paperwork and links to service partners, travel guides, and other general information connected to your program.

 Read through last year’s trip report to get an idea of what the day-to-day experience is like on the program.

 Love photography? Check out photographs from last year’s trips in the TSP Photo Gallery.

 Visit your local and school libraries to see what resources are available there.

 Meet with other people who have traveled to your program destination and listen to their experiences.

If you have any questions about your program, please contact TSP staff at 413-623-8991.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do you need a sleeping bag, pillow, and sleeping pad on TLS? A sleeping bag and pad are essential on TLS. When camping you will need the sleeping pad to insulate you from the cold ground. We recommend a three season bag with a stuff sack. You do not need a pillow. A very good pillow can be made from putting clothing in your stuff sack. See your packing list for more details.

Where will we stay for orientation? The TLS group will stay at Chimney Corners Camp or Camp Becket during orientation and at the opposite camp during debrief upon the group’s return.

13 What do we do during orientation? The orientation period at camp will be used for group bonding and getting prepared for the TLS adventure. The group will go on practice rides and review bicycle safety and maintenance. Group and leader goals and expectations will be discussed, along with issues of environmental awareness and responsibility.

What do we carry on our bikes? We recommend you fit your bikes with 2,000 cubic inch panniers. You will carry all toiletries, clothes, personal effects, sleeping bag and sleeping pad on your bike. Most participants fill the panniers with clothing and toiletries and tie down the sleeping bag and pad in waterproof bags on top.

What kind of camping gear should you bring with you? The BCC YMCA will provide all the necessary accouterments for outdoor cooking including cook stoves, plates, bowls, cooking and eating utensils, and cleaning supplies. All tents and tarps are also supplied by camp and are transported in the support vehicle.

What toiletries and towels should you bring? Less is more-- one good packing towel and the essential toiletries is a safe bet. See the packing list for more details.

When will we do laundry? You will be able to do laundry about once a week. The leaders will provide the laundry detergent and the motivation to get the laundry done.

What should be done to prevent theft on TLS? Theft can be a problem anywhere you go if you bring desired objects. We recommend that you do not bring any electronics or anything of extreme value. Bike locks are a good idea anytime you are traveling.

What would happen if a TLS participant were caught drinking or smoking? There is a zero tolerance rule at the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA that clearly states that anyone who has been drinking or smoking will be sent home.

If there is something that we forgot to put on the health card, what should we do? You can update your health information on your online account. If you have a specific concern that you would like to speak to a director about, please contact Alysa Austin at [email protected] or 413-623-8991 ext.178. It is critical that we are aware of any health concerns your child may have. We can accommodate many health needs, but we must know in advance of the program.

Can you get refills for prescriptions easily? No. Make sure that the TLS participant has enough medication to last the entire program and also some extra just in case. Bring along the doctor’s prescription for medication and glasses, but know that it is easier to bring extra than to obtain them in a different state. You would also want to make sure that you have enough non-prescription medication as well.

Who is responsible for medication? Campers are responsible for carrying their own medications. Campers will turn in any medication to the infirmary while the group is in camp, but prior to departure for Burlington, the participant will begin to be responsible for his/her own medication. Our leaders must know all the medications that a participant is currently taking, but the nature of the program makes it impossible for a leader to dispense each participant’s medication.

What is the YMCA’s policy on swimming? Swimming is only permitted when there is a YMCA certified lifeguard present or host lifeguard with certifications approved under the American Camp Association.

Can I send mail to a participant on TLS? Yes. The mailing addresses will be available at camp check-in.

14 How much money should a participant bring on TLS? What do they have to spend money on? We recommend bringing $200 on TLS. The YMCA pays for all program fees and meals. The TLS participant only needs money for souvenirs, gifts, or extra snacks.

Can you accommodate vegetarians on TLS? Yes. Make sure that you inform the program director BEFORE you arrive at camp so that we can inform the group leaders. The TLS group prepares their own food and vegetarian options will be available. Please also inform camp about any other food issues including allergies.

What is the weather like in Vermont and New York? The average night time temperatures can drop into the high 50s, while during the day average highs will reach just into the 80’s. Rainfall in the summer averages 3.2 inches in each month June – August. Staying hydrated, keeping sun block on, and taking breaks when needed are important.

How are service projects coordinated? During the spring, projects are set up with local community members, non-profits, and state park employees. While on the program, trip leaders and participants will meet up with their service partners to complete tasks. In order to participate in many of these projects and other activities including whitewater rafting, participants and guardians will be asked to sign waivers provided by our partners.

How does the group travel to each location? TLS trip leaders will support each participant as they take turns leading the group on a planned route from each location to the next. In some cases, the group will spend multiple days at a site and only travel to nearby service locations or stores to purchase supplies, while in other cases, the group will spend all day biking to a new site. TLS is also supported by a BCC YMCA certified driver who will transport participants in a rented vehicle if needed or in the case of an emergency.

How are the leaders selected? The TLS program is led by two caring and competent adults (21 years or older). We look for leaders who are positive role models for young teens and understand the objectives of our Travel & Service Programs. They must be mature, responsible, and able to problem-solve effectively. TSP leader candidates complete a written application, submit three references, and are interviewed by the TSP Directors. Each leader is required to get certified in CPR, Wilderness First Aid, and Lifeguarding (if there is swimming on program). TLS leaders complete a 3 day bicycling specific training in addition to the 9 day training program that all TSP leaders attend.

Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA Camps & Outdoor Center 748 Hamilton Road Becket, MA 01223

Phone: (413) 623-8991 Fax: (413) 623 - 5890 www.bccymca.org

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