A GROUP of 35 underprivileged youth is getting a break from the stresses of everyday life this week thanks to The Salvation Army Youth Camp.
The camp, now in its 19th year, is run in partnership with McDonald’s WA. The partnership began in 2010 when McDonald’s stepped in to save the camps from financial difficulty.
The youth attending the camp, aged between 12 and 15 years, will be participating in activities including abseiling, rock climbing, team-building activities, group discussions and challenged to develop interpersonal and leadership skills, as well as improving their self-esteem.
“Since the Youth Camps started in 1995, we’ve had 17 participants become team leaders and about 12 more become volunteers with our cook team,” Salvation Army Youth Camp director Elaine Jensen said.
“The list of successes goes on, we’re so proud of what our kids have gone on to pursue.
“It’s so encouraging and makes you see just how vital this program is in helping disadvantaged and troubled youth pick themselves up and realise their hidden ability to contribute positively to their community.
“Every one of our camp participants has something to contribute to society, whether on a local level or larger scale, and it’s just a matter of giving them some essential skills to realise their potential and bring those leadership qualities and other abilities to the fore.”
