Camp Rainbow focuses on the development of the individual in four key areas: self-awareness, communication, co-operation, and leadership. Many participants are for the first time encouraged to think about themselves as a leader within their family and community. Participants collaborate to establish a 'free-zone' where the negative aspects of school and home life can be left behind; discrimination, disrespect, and so on have no place at Rainbow. With the safety to be who they really are, Rainbow participants experience the joy of a wholly co-operative community. All participants are involved in making decisions for their week. They organize their own events -- talent shows, dances, campfires, and theatre sports -- while the staff present dynamic workshops around the four core themes.

The Camp Rainbow Advanced Camp is an arena for deeper growth. Responsible communications processes are taught and notions of co-operative leadership are further instilled. The Grad Camp is yet another level of co-operative training. At this camp, participants run their own experience, from start to finish. Staff are their as resources as the participants choose a co-operative structure, practice consensus decision-making, and meet as a group to discuss issues and activities.

Grad Camp 2001 was an enormous success, with participants triumphing over the challenges of co-operative leadership, and leaving with concrete action steps for their communities at home.

By Geordie Aitken

"I will take back (to my community) the power to choose my attitude and will not let circumstance determine the person I am."