CYL - What they are saying
CYL is a quality youth camp, with a forty-year history in Ontario of developing leadership, facilitation and communication skills, while promoting the benefits and philosophies of the co-operative movement.
What are others saying about CYL?
CYL-ers are passionate about their program. Below are some short samples. Click on the FastLnks at right to read more.
- CYL provides a fun and supportive environment for young people to learn about co-operatives, leadership and themselves.
Craig S., Team Lead, junior - CYL WAS TOTALLY AWESOME. I met tons of great people, had lots of fun and made some sweet memories. Don't get left behind!
Lewis V, participant, junior - I felt a bit uncomfortable when I first got to CYL, but as soon as the day ended, I made lots of friends. From the cool activities like swimming, volleyball, tetherball, yoga, and canoeing, to the funniest moments - it was all a blast!!
Ylli R, participant, junior - I feel privileged to have been able to meet so many people who can and will change our world for the better! These young leaders are charismatic, motivated and passionate. And after seeing what the can do in just one week, I can't wait to see what they accomplish in the years to come.
Céline C., Team Lead, intermediate - I attended CYL for the first time last year and had an amazing time and am already excited for this year. The atmosphere is welcoming and allows room for individuals to learn more about themselves with the help from those around them. I gained more confidence to be myself through the support my peers at CYL gave me. It proved to me that it doesn’t matter where you are from or what kind of life you live, CYL is for you. CYL is the opportunity of a lifetime.
Sarah C, participant, intermediate - I have most often facilitated the senior sessions and there is something very unique about this group. There is a sense of comfort in reconnecting with friends for another summer experience and there is an eagerness and level of excitement as another group of young people prepares to take their next life steps with a Co-operative Toolkit in hand.
Tanya G, Team Lead, senior - CYL was one of the greatest weeks in my life. I formed lifelong friendships and created memories that will last forever.
David J., participant - It's amazing the way a group of teenagers from different backgrounds can become so close in just one week, but that's all a part of the 'CYL magic.' The environment is so relaxed and welcoming from the moment you step in the building.
CYL holds a special place in my heart, and I will always feel like I belong in the CYL community! Through all the laughs, memories, and even tears, this camp was an experience of a lifetime!
Samantha S., junior participant - Two of my three children (so far) have attended the camp and it has changed their lives, and mine too. How can a week-long camp have that kind of impact? One of the things that CYL brings out in the youth is their self confidence, helping them believe in themselves, believe they can accomplish what they put their mind to, believe that speaking up for the right reasons at the right time is the right thing to do.
This camp is helping my children develop into healthy, responsible, self assured adults. My advice? Send your kids to camp even if they think they don’t want to go! It’s an experience they’ll appreciate for the rest of their lives!
Barb G., parent - As a facilitator, CYL continues to fill me with awe as I watch youth transform in one short week. Over the past six years I have worked with our youth and seen the changes take place; I have seen the unsure step forward; I have seen the loner group; I have seen the uncaring move to compassion, and I have seen the sure add empathy.
I go and facilitate and always come away with life lessons taught to me by our youth. It is an experience for our youth and our facilitators.
Michael B., facilitator
