How Summer Camp Helped One Shy Student

On the surface, Salvation Army camps are a place for children to learn new things such as archery, canoeing and high ropes. However, a closer look shows children becoming self-sufficient and confident, learning teamwork and developing leadership skills.

Micaela’s first summer camp experience was at age six.

“I was afraid and very shy when I attended my first sleep-away camp at The Salvation Army,” says Micaela. “I was out of my comfort zone and on my own with people I didn’t know.” Before long, she found that camp was nothing to worry about and everything to be excited about.

“Attending camp from a young age set me up for success as a camp leader.”

Over many years, Micaela attended summer camp where she boosted her independence and initiative, gained confidence and self-awareness and improved her interpersonal skills. Today, she is program coordinator at The Salvation Army’s Blaze Adventure camp in Jackson’s point, Ont., and attributes her leadership success to her years of summer camp experiences.

“Attending camp from a young age set me up for success as a camp leader,” says the third-year university student. “And as a leader in a setting where many children come from broken homes I’ve learned better how to comfort people who are hurting or experiencing challenging times.

“Camp stretches me and helps me to develop in ways I never thought possible.”

“Every year I have a personal goal, a part of my character that I want to strengthen”, continues Micaela. “This year, my goal is to think before I react, to step back and consider all aspects of an issue before I try to solve it.”

Leadership and personal growth, goal-setting and problem solving are skills that Micaela can transfer to other areas of her life.

“Camp stretches me and helps me to develop in ways I never thought possible,” says Micaela. “I love pouring myself into this worthwhile ministry.”