Entering grades 10-12 in fall of 2026.
Leadership Development Institute (LDI) 2.0 is a three-week program for teens looking to grow as leaders through hands-on experience, community connection, and outdoor adventure. Open to both returning and first-time participants, the program blends two weeks at Camp Orkila with a week-long sea kayaking expedition. While at camp, teens build leadership and youth work skills, complete a group service project, and participate in workshops focused on communication, facilitation, and working with peers. During the expedition, campers take turns leading their group, camp under tarps, and deepen their outdoor and team-based skills.
LDI 2.0 emphasizes responsibility, self-awareness, and belonging. Whether guiding peers as “Leader of the Day,” collaborating on service work, or learning to navigate group dynamics, teens strengthen leadership skills that translate into life beyond camp. This program supports all teens—regardless of prior experience—in building confidence, connecting with a supportive community, and exploring their potential in both camp and wilderness settings.
Teen Leadership programs focus on developing personal leadership and communication styles while working with youth and serving the community.
Cabin Assignments: Teen participants live in all-gender cabins alongside staff members and the other members of their program group. When on kayaking trip, participants sleep under tarps in groups organized by gender identity and/or personal comfort.
We are committed to making YMCA Camping and Outdoor Leadership programs more accessible for everyone. We have created our pricing options and developed a voluntary sliding fee schedule. Simply select the price most appropriate for your family. Your selections are completely confidential and do not impact the quality of your participant’s experience.
$150 non-refundable deposit is required for all registrations and is applied to the total amount due.
Price A reflects the full price of sending a participant to the program selected. This level represents the full price of camp operations, including industry leading training and staffing, support for long-term maintenance, repairs, and facility enhancements.
Price B is partially sponsored by funds generously contributed by our supporters to help families unable to afford the full price of the program.
Price C is our most accessible rate, supported by generous contributions from our donors to ensure a positive camp experience for as many participants as possible.
Our goal is to remove barriers that prevent anyone from participating in our programs, including financial barriers. If our lowest price still creates a financial barrier that prevents you from participating in our programs, we invite you to fill out a Financial Assistance Application. Once we have reviewed and approved your application, you will receive an email confirming the percentage you have been awarded.* A $50 deposit is still required to confirm your reservation.
*We are only able to offer financial assistance for one registration per participant each summer.