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Leader-in-Training

The Leader-in-Training (LIT) Program is designed to develop leadership, teamwork, and practical skills in youth ages 13-17. Through a combination of structured training, hands-on volunteer placements, and real-world experiences, the program aims to prepare participants for future employment, volunteer roles, and active community involvement. The program is structured to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where participants can build confidence, enhance their abilities, and engage meaningfully with their peers and community.

Program Overview

Youth taking part in the LIT Program will follow a four step process:

  1. Apply for program entry between February 5, 2025 to April 23, 2025
  2. Attend LIT University
  3. Be placed in a Culture & Recreation program
  4. Be recognized for their hard work and achievements

The LIT Program seeks to achieve the following objectives:

  1. Leadership Development
  2. Teamwork and Collaboration
  3. Confidence Building
  4. Career Preparation
  5. Community Engagement
  6. Personal Growth

The LIT Program is structured to provide a comprehensive, year-round experience with two primary sessions. Participants will move through the program as a cohort, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. The program includes a mix of training sessions, workshops, and hands-on volunteer placements designed to cater to a variety of interests and skill levels.

  • Fall Program - The Fall Program runs from October to March, coinciding with the school year. This session is designed to accommodate participants' school schedules while providing valuable volunteer experiences.
  • Summer Program - The Summer programs runs from June to August, offering a more intensive experience with increased opportunities for volunteer placements due to the availability of summer camps and community events.
Crest that says "LIT University, established in 2025"

Apply for the LIT Program

Registration for the LIT Program opens on February 5, 2025 and closes on April 23, 2025. Reach out to recreation@dawsoncreek.ca and connect with a leader today to find out how you can become a leader-in-training through LIT University.

LIT University

Participants must complete four core training modules before beginning their volunteer placements. View the course information below.

Objective: Prepare participants to work effectively with children of different age groups.

Content:

  • Overview of developmental stages and age-appropriate activities.
  • Strategies for managing common behavioral issues in children.
  • Techniques for giving clear instructions and maintaining group attention.
  • Confidentiality and safety training, including duty to report and privacy considerations.

Practical Component: Participants will practice leading games and activities, followed by group feedback and discussion.

Objective: Learn how the framework for supporting children’s growth and well-being.

  • It focuses on five core principles that guide caregivers and educators in fostering healthy physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development in children.
  • These principles emphasize the importance of providing safe, nurturing environments, encouraging positive relationships, promoting active engagement, supporting emotional development, and recognizing each child's individuality.
  • The approach aims to create a foundation for children to thrive and reach their full potential.

Objective: Equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed for professional conduct in the workplace.

Content:

  • Understanding professionalism: what it looks like and how to embody it.
  • Email and resume writing: tips on effective communication and creating a strong resume.
  • Customer service skills: best practices for interacting with the public.
  • Dress code and personal presentation for various work environments.
  • Mock interviews: Participants will practice responding to common interview questions, with feedback provided by peers and instructors.

Objective: Teach participants how to create engaging and fun experiences for children.

Content:

  • Crafting simple, age-appropriate activities and games.
  • Face painting techniques, including design ideas and safety considerations.

Practical Component: Participants will practice these activities and skills in a controlled environment before applying them during volunteer placements.

Objective: Develop participants' ability to work effectively in teams.

Content:

  • Different types of communication styles and their impact on team dynamics.
  • Qualities of an effective team member and leader.
  • Techniques for group formation and management (e.g., splitting groups, organizing activities).
  • Providing constructive and positive feedback, and the importance of self-reflection.
  • Understanding individual strengths and areas for improvement within a team setting.

Practical Component: Team-building exercises such as the "Human Knot" to illustrate the importance of cooperation and communication.

Objective: Boost confidence in handling unexpected situations, and provide valuable knowledge that can help keep friends, family, and peers safe. This hands-on course teaches how to respond to common emergencies like:

  • cuts
  • burns
  • sprains, and
  • choking

Taking a Basic First Aid certification course is a great way for teens to learn essential life-saving skills. Whether at home, school, or during activities, being certified in first aid empowers teens to act quickly and responsibly when it matters most.

Placements

Participants are required to complete a minimum of 40-60 hours in various volunteer placements, which are carefully selected to provide a broad range of experiences.

Participants will assist in summer or March break day camps, working directly with children and helping to facilitate camp activities.

 

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Engaging with children in games, crafts, and educational activities.
  • Supporting camp leaders by preparing materials and organizing activities.
  • Acting as positive role models and providing leadership within the camp environment.
  • Completing a leader evaluation at the end of each week to assess performance and areas for growth.

Participants will support the organization and execution of special community events.

 

Roles and Responsibilities:

  •  
    • Assisting with event setup and teardown.
    • Running booths, activities, or games during events.
    • Supporting event staff with logistical tasks, such as crowd management or registration.

Awards

All Leaders-in-Training will have the opportunity to attend an end-of-season appreciation party featuring refreshments, awards, and completion certificates to enhance their résumés.

Community Impact

Join the LIT Program and experience firsthand how it can have profound benefits for our community. The program will foster:

  • Civic Engagement
  • Strengthened Community Bonds
  • Youth Empowerment
  • Diverse Experiences
  • Career Pathways
  • Economic Growth

Sponsored By ARC Resources

A huge thank you to ARC Resources for generously sponsoring our Leadership in Training Program, empowering youth with the skills and confidence to become the leaders of tomorrow!

Contact Us

The City of Dawson Creek
10105 - 12A Street
City of Dawson Creek, BC V1G 3V7
Telephone: 250-784-3600

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