Overview:

The DASH Leadership Corps  at Camp DASH offers teenagers a transformative summer experience aimed at fostering leadership skills, personal growth, and community engagement. Camp DASH is proud to host this new dynamic program, which empowers young people to make a positive impact through mentorship to our younger campers, working with our staff, and contributing to meaningful community service projects. By participating in the Youth Leadership Corps, teens not only develop essential leadership qualities but gain practical experience while building lasting connections with our Waterford Youth and Family Services, Waterford Town government and the community partners that help us in our mission. 

Our Online Application goes live on April 1st. 
 
Click Here to Open our Application

Please Note:

The DASH Leadership Corps is a structured leadership development and community service program designed for mature, motivated teens—not a substitute for child care. If your family is primarily seeking supervision for a young teen who may not yet be ready for independent responsibility, this may not be the right fit. For families looking for a more traditional camp experience for rising 6th–8th graders, we recommend enrolling in DASH Academy, our regular Camp DASH program for middle schoolers. Please also note that Leadership Corps members do not volunteer in DASH Academy due to the close age range between participants. Instead, Corps members are placed with our younger age groups, where they can truly step into leadership and mentoring roles. We are looking for teens ready to be role models, take initiative, and make a meaningful contribution to our camp and community.

Program Objectives:

• Leadership Training: Applicants accepted into the Youth Leadership Corps will be required to attend a dedicated leadership training workshop held at the Waterford Community Center. This two-day event—separate from our regular staff training—includes guest speakers, interactive activities, and meaningful discussions focused on the philosophy and psychology behind strong leadership.Training dates will be provided once applicants have been officially accepted into the program.
  
• Leadership Development: Provide Waterford Teens with opportunities to cultivate essential leadership qualities such as teamwork, communication, problem solving, and decision-making through experiential learning and service-oriented activities.
• Personal Growth: Support the personal growth and development of Waterford teens by encouraging self-confidence, resilience, and a sense of responsibility through meaningful volunteer experiences.
• Community Engagement: Engage teenagers in community service projects and initiatives that address local needs promote social justice, and inspire positive change within the Camp DASH community and beyond.
• Skill Building: Offer teenagers the chance to acquire new skills, explore their interests, and gain valuable experience in areas such as project management, event planning, and cross-cultural communication.

Program Requirements:

• Age: Participants must be between the ages of 13 and 15 years old to join the DASH Youth Leadership Corps.
• Character: Applicants should demonstrate qualities such as responsibility, integrity, empathy, and a positive attitude towards teamwork and collaboration.
• Commitment: Participants are expected to commit to the full duration of the program, which includes attending training sessions, volunteering a minimum of 30 hours this summer, and actively participating in scheduled community service projects.
• Leadership Potential: Applicants should exhibit leadership potential, including the ability to communicate effectively, problem-solve, take initiative, and inspire others.
• Availability: Participants should have the availability to attend scheduled program activities, including training sessions, workshops, and volunteer opportunities, as well as special events or projects.
• Interest in Community Service: Applicants should have a genuine interest in serving their community and making a positive impact through volunteerism and leadership.
• Diversity and Inclusion: The program encourages diversity and welcomes participants from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.
• Compliance: Participants must agree to abide by the rules, policies, and guidelines set forth by Camp DASH and the DASH Youth Leadership Corps program throughout their participation.

Program Components:

• Volunteer Service: Corps members will actively participate in various volunteer assignments and community service projects, collaborating with peers and adult mentors to make meaningful contributions to Camp DASH and the broader community.
• Mentorship and Support: Volunteers will receive mentorship and guidance from experienced camp staff, adult mentors, and peer leaders throughout the program. Mentors will provide ongoing support, feedback, and encouragement to help volunteers succeed in their roles and personal development goals.
• Reflection and Celebration: The DASH Leadership Corps will provide opportunities for participants to reflect on their experiences, celebrate their accomplishments, and set goals for future growth and service with an end of the year summer party at Waterford Beach Park.
• Continuous Learning: Although the summer volunteer programs represent the busiest period for Corps members, many opportunities exist throughout the school year. Engage in volunteer activities in our after-school programs, support our food bank initiatives, contribute to our holiday program, and explore additional avenues to serve the community while honing leadership skills.

Benefits for DASH Leadership Corps Participants:

• Leadership Skills: Develop essential leadership skills and qualities that will empower participants to succeed in academic, professional, and personal endeavors.
• Personal Development: Experience personal growth, self-discovery, and increased self-confidence through meaningful volunteer experiences and leadership opportunities.
• Community Impact: Make a tangible difference in the lives of others and contribute to building a more compassionate, inclusive, and vibrant community.
• Network and Relationships: Establish connections, and cultivate mentorship bonds with peers, mentors, and community members. Understand the significance of gaining initial opportunities and expanding on
• Resume and College Applications: Enhance college and job applications with evidence of leadership roles, volunteer experience, and community involvement.

The DASH Leadership Corps at Camp DASH is more than just a volunteer program—it's a transformative journey that empowers teens to lead with compassion, integrity, and purpose. Through their participation in this program, teenagers will not only develop valuable skills and experiences but also inspire positive change and leave a lasting legacy within their community.