Overnight Camp Counsellor – CTS Youth Society
For my first co-op term, I have had the opportunity to work with CTS Youth Society, a non-profit organization, as an Overnight Camp Counsellor at Capilano River Regional Park. My responsibilities included training and mentoring youth Peer Leader volunteers aged 15-18 and supporting youth ages 12-18 in outdoor education and community-building activities. As well, leading stewardship projects partnered with MetroVan such as removing invasive species and fence building. I also had the privilege of learning alongside campers through Indigenous workshops with 2 Métis women and enjoying their homemade Bannock!
This role has strengthened my communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills, while allowing me to share my knowledge about ecology, plants, and conservation with the community.
Working with CTS Youth Society and UBC CO-OP has shown me the value of applying my classroom knowledge in a meaningful, hands-on way, and I would highly recommend the program to anyone interested in growing both professionally and personally while making a positive impact in their community.