The Youth Excellence Society (YES Camp)

I had the best week ever at YES camp. In just a week I had made friends that I felt like I had known my entire life. I was in tears when I had to leave after six days and I think about the experience everyday. I continue to speak with the friends I made there everyday. We're still best friends months later and constantly talk about the reunion, and how excited we are to see each other again. As soon as I found out I was going to yes Camp i counted down each day of the 163 days till i left. I continue to count down the days till my next week at YES camp.

it was really good, i wasn’t super happy about going because i wanted to stay home and just chill, and i didn’t want them to take my phone, but them taking my phone really helped enhance my experience and i didn’t even really feel the need to check my phone. everypony there is so nice and friendly which was really nice to be around and it helped me feel more confident. i want to go again this year and if someone is reading this review then you should go too it’s pretty fun

oh man, where do i begin with YES ? i was sponsored my first year by prospera credit union(huge thank you) and despite being nervous at first, i met so many amazing people just on the bus ride alone. once i got to the actual camp, it got so much better. hiking, dance parties, getting to know everyone at the camp was such a huge step out of my comfort zone. i was always a shy awkward person but YES helped me find myself and my voice. because of them i discovered who i was and who i wanted to be. they changed my life for the better. they did so much for my confidence i went back two more times ! i loved every second of it, and no matter what was going on i felt accepted and appreciated. i learned valuable lessons about life and how to deal with difficult things. i wouldnt be where i am today if it werent for YES camp. thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone i met. some of us may have lost touch, but i know that no matter what the memories remain. if youre a parent looking for a place for your child to gain confidence and grow as a person, i highly recommend the YES.

The YES is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. It has shaped me into the person I am today. The first time I went I was 12 and having a hard time with entering a new phase in my life. I was quite hesitant to go because it was my first time ever going away to a sleep away camp. But as soon as i met the staff and got to know my fellow campers, I fell in love with the place. I am so glad that the YES was there to provide a helpful guide in my teenage years. It’s a place full of acceptance, empathy, community and compassion. (oh and some really fun dance parties!) The community that you create at camp is one that stays with you forever. The YES is such a brilliant place to learn, grow and most importantly have FUN!!! I highly suggest it for any youth.

My experience at the YES camp was truly transformational. I attended for the first time when I was 15 and now, nearly 10 years later, I continue my work with this inspiring organization. Using cooperative education, the YES provides leadership skills training to teens in the most encouraging environment. At 15, this program taught me the importance of community by fostering care and respect between both participants and staff. I received invaluable lessons in communication, conflict resolution and self-awareness. I have taken these foundational skills (and many more) into my adult life and am so thankful for the experience. If you're looking for a place that cultivates inclusion and acceptance among teenagers all while instilling valuable life skills, you've found it!