Welcome to YMCA Camp Ki-Wa-Y – Where Every Day is an Adventure!
Nestled on the stunning west shore of Paradise Lake, YMCA Camp Ki-Wa-Y offers a truly extraordinary camp experience just 15 minutes from Kitchener-Waterloo. Spanning 77 acres of breathtaking natural beauty, including 25 acres of wooded forests, our camp is a sanctuary for exploration, creativity, and growth.
What Makes Camp Ki-Wa-Y Special?
Camp Ki-Wa-Y is more than just a camp—it's a place where campers choose their own adventures through unique program streams tailored to their passions and interests. Whether they're climbing new heights, paddling across serene waters, creating masterpieces inspired by nature, or learning survival skills, every camper has the freedom to focus on what excites them most.
Camp Highlights:
- Gender-inclusive cabins that foster a welcoming and supportive environment.
- Activities like rock climbing, high and low ropes courses, a water trampoline, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.
- A picturesque setting that inspires connection, community, and lifelong memories.
YMCA Camp Ki-Wa-Y’s Leaders-in-Training Program: Building Tomorrow’s Leaders, One Camper at a Time
Are you ready to take the next step in your camp journey? The Leaders-in-Training (LIT) program at Camp Ki-Wa-Y is designed for 13-16-year-olds who are ready to grow as leaders while experiencing the magic of overnight camping. Located on the beautiful shores of Paradise Lake, this program combines skill-building, personal growth, and unforgettable camp experiences in a supportive and adventurous environment.
Why Choose the LIT Program?
The LIT program is a leadership journey that transforms campers into confident, community-oriented individuals. Participants will engage in exciting camp activities like high ropes, windsurfing, and traditional camp experiences while developing essential leadership skills. The program includes earning valuable certifications, such as the Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross, setting participants on the path to becoming counselors or community leaders.
What to Expect:
- Skill Development: Learn to lead through team-building, mentorship, and hands-on training.
- Camp Traditions: Immerse yourself in Ki-Wa-Y’s storied traditions, from group meals to campfire evenings.
- Certifications: Gain recognized qualifications like the Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross.
- New Experiences: Stay in brand-new yurts and experience the joy of collaboration with peers.
What Changes When You Move from Camper to LIT?
As an LIT, you’re transitioning from participant to role model. While not directly responsible for leading campers, you’ll build a foundation in leadership, master camp skills, and develop personal accountability. LITs are held to higher standards and are expected to lead by example.
Program Highlights:
- Accountability: Take ownership of your actions and decisions.
- Skill Mastery: Learn to master camp activities with the goal of one day teaching them.
- Team Leadership: Collaborate with peers to plan activities, solve problems, and support one another.
- Mentorship: Observe counselors in action and learn valuable leadership styles.
Join the LIT program and embark on a life-changing journey where confidence, responsibility, and leadership skills are cultivated in a welcoming, adventure-filled camp setting. This is more than a program—it’s the first step toward becoming a leader at camp and in your community.
Why Choose YMCA Camp Ki-Wa-Y?
Here, kids gain confidence, make lifelong friendships, and embrace the joy of the outdoors. Our gender-inclusive environment ensures every camper feels welcomed and valued, while our variety of program streams guarantees a customized and unforgettable camp experience.
Come see why families have trusted Camp Ki-Wa-Y for generations. Your adventure awaits!
