The Junior Outdoor Leader program is for youth ages 13 to 17 who are interested in outdoor leadership skills, environmental stewardship and giving back to the community.

Through team building activities, wilderness education and leadership training, campers will gain the skills and confidence needed to volunteer at Strathcona Wilderness Centre programs and in the community.

View current Junior Outdoor Leader programs

Summer 2024 important dates

• March 1: Applications open
• March 21: Junior Outdoor Leader Camp registration starts
• May 30: Registration night for volunteer weeks, program payment due

Program benefits

• Learn new leadership skills and build confidence
• Work in a positive team environment
• Gain valuable work experience
• Act as a role model to campers
• Receive reference letter from supervisors
• Learn about opportunities at other Wilderness Centre events
• Spend the summer outside while making new friends and having fun!

Program types

Junior Outdoor Leader opportunities are available seasonally. View current opportunities and dates on RecOnline.

Junior Outdoor Leader Camp (ages 13Y-17Y)

A one-week leadership training camp that includes an overnight backcountry trip at Elk Island National Park. Participants must commit to a minimum of two summer volunteer weeks upon completion of the training camp.

• Participants must attend registration night* preceding the camp
• Participants will lead one game or activity per volunteer week, with support from a staff mentor
• Volunteer T-shirt included

Junior Outdoor Leader Volunteer Program (ages 14Y-17Y)

The Junior Outdoor Leader Volunteer Program is available for returning volunteers who have previously completed a Junior Outdoor Leader Camp.

• Participants must attend registration night* preceding the camp
• Participants must attend a training weekend in June at the Strathcona Wilderness Centre
• Participants will lead two games or activities per volunteer week, with support from a staff mentor
• Volunteer T-shirt included

*During registration night, participants will bring their completed application form (provided upon registration), complete a brief interview, select their summer volunteer weeks and receive a volunteer confirmation and training package.