Youth Leadership/ Pioneer Camper 
Intro
Cradle Beach has a long-standing tradition of developing the skills of youth ages 14-16, called Pioneer Campers (PCs). Traditionally, PCs have a full program that includes work responsibilities, volunteerism, and a specialized schedule of activities appropriate for the teen years.
Our PCs help out during meals by serving the food to the younger campers, doing dishes, and clean up. We look for 14-16 year olds who have leadership skills and a giving nature. Our PCs also interact with the younger campers during the day by assisting staff run games, helping campers get from one activity to another, and by having fun with the younger campers.
In the past, we have explored the Bridges Choices Explorer program. This program provides PCs with vocational assessments, occupation profiles, and career videos. It also connects young people with college and university programs. Because the Bridges program is on-line, PCs can use it anytime—at home, school, etc, increasing the potential impact of this program.
In the area of career development, the Bridges Choices Planner helps youth to build a career plan, plotting the skills they will need for a successful career. They also learn interview techniques, resume development, and interpersonal skills. As with the Choices Explorer program, PCs can access their plan anytime, anywhere on-line. They can also compare and share their plans with young people across the country, as well as their fellow PCs.
To achieve personal growth, youth participate in a variety of leadership, communication, and team building activities. Cradle Beach also teaches conflict resolution skills to decrease violence among youth, not only when they are here, but also when they are at home or school.
The PCs also perform community service projects that make Cradle Beach a better place, by helping with fundraising events or evening activities. They serve as positive role models for the younger campers. PCs earn community service hours for taking part in any of the five summer sessions.
PCs contribute much to camp life however they receive many benefits in return. PCs have their own camp program every day, whether it’s on the ropes course, in the swimming pool, or making life-long friends. PCs also participate in all camp programs like Cradle Beach Idol, Pirate Day, and more!
Anyone interested in more information or an application should contact the Admissions Office at Cradle Beach by phone: 716-549-6307 ext 205 or by e-mail: admissions@cradlebeach.org
