+ How are the volunteer staff selected and what kind of training do they have?
Most of our volunteer staff are that are alumni of the program, employees of co-operatives, credit unions, school teachers etc. that have a passion for the program and inspiring youth. Volunteer staff are required to submit a new application every summer and go through an in-depth screening process which includes a criminal record check and 48 hours of on-site training. All volunteer staff must also be First Aid/CPR Certified and bring their own professional backgrounds and personal leadership styles to the program. The Youth Program Coordinator or an ACCA appointed representative is on-site 24/7 during the program. They are the designated Primary First Aider and oversee all volunteer staff, participants, medical concerns and any other issues that may arise.
+ How do I get prepared for the program?
Once you’ve registered & your participant fee has been paid, you will receive a confirmation email in May with all the information you will require such as packing lists, bus schedules, standards of behaviour etc. All of this information will also be posted on our website.
+ Dietary restrictions – Can these be accommodated?
Goldeye Centre has their own on-site kitchen staff that provide flavorful, healthy meals with a wide range of choices. They can accommodate special dietary requests. These requests must be written on the health form that is filled out with registration. Any changes to these dietary concerns (or other health concerns) are to be made known to the ACCA office prior to the program commencing.
+ Can youth bring their own food?
Participants cannot bring their own food for their program week, we promise we’ll feed them! Youth are encouraged to bring snacks for the trip to and from the program as the drive can be quite long. These snacks will be handed in on the first night, and will be returned to the participants at the end of the week.
+ What are the rules about bringing medication?
All prescribed and over the counter medication must be handed in to the designated First Aid Attendant. The First Aid Attendant will work with the participants to guarantee that their medication routine is consistent with the prescribed guidelines as written on the Participant Health Form or as needed. All prescribed medication must come to the program in the original container, or bubble packed.
+ Are cell phones allowed to be used while at the program?
All participants are required to hand in their cell phones or any other electronic device that can connect to the internet on the first day of the program. Cell phones and other devices will be securely stored by the ACCA staff and will be returned on the last day of the program. This is to help participants and volunteer staff be 100% present in all activities during the week and to help build a tight knit, safe community. Please note that the Youth Program cell phone is ALWAYS available for the youth to call home or for parents to call/text and check in. 780-991-4620
+ What are the sleeping accommodations?
Participants sleep in bunk style cabins which accommodate 19 youth + 1 staff supervisor. Cabins are divided according to gender and participants will need to bring their own bedding. Participants are intentionally mixed up for the purpose of meeting new people and making new friends. We do not take roommate requests. If you require more information or a different arrangement based on gender identity or special circumstance, please contact the office. A reminder on bedding and other packing items will be sent out in May.
+ What should youth bring to the program?
Each program week has their own specific ‘Things-to Bring’ list as there are sometimes different themes from week to week. A specific list for each program can be found in the Confirmation Email which will be available at the end of May.
+ What are participants NOT allowed to bring to the program?
We want youth to have a FANTASTIC time while at our program! Please refer the Participant Standards of Behavior which will be in the Confirmation package, available at the end of May.
There will be a set time in which participants will be able to call home during the week if they would like. Any other calls or messages required due to a special occasion or circumstance can occur, but must be arranged with the Youth Program Coordinator. If there is an emergency, or any other dire situation, the youth program cell phone is on 24/7 and all guardians will be provided with the contact number.
+ Can I come visit my child at the program?
Our program is jam packed with fun, inspiring activities throughout the week to help build a tight knit, trusting community. We highly encourage the youth to be a part of the program 100%, however if you really wish to request a visit, we require notification prior to arrival of the short visit.
+ Is this program for particular types of youth?
The ACCA Co-operative Youth Leadership Program ecourages ALL youth to attend our program We receive youth from all types of backgrounds and from over 50 communities throughout Alberta & Norhtern BC. If you have particular needs or barriers, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our office, we’d love to talk to you about how to best include you in our programs.