About YoWoChAs

Mission
The YWCA of Edmonton - YoWoChAs Outdoor Education Centre promotes respect for self, others and the environment.

Vision
The YWCA of Edmonton - YoWoChAs Outdoor Education Centre develops people though environmentally sensitive programmes and facilities.

Mandate
The YWCA of Edmonton - YoWoChAs
Outdoor Education Centre provides programmes that secure the success of
the whole person in body, mind and spirit.


Location and Facilities

• Located 80 km west of Edmonton.
• Fifty acres of parkland forest and lakeside facilities on Lake Wabamun.
• The waterfront boasts a fleet of over forty boats including canoes, kayaks and sailboats.
• We have a zip line, high and low ropes course, an initiatives course and many kilometres of hiking trails.
• During the winter, we offer a full range of outdoor activities including cross-country skiing and snow shoeing.
• YoWoChAs provides a beautiful base for anyone's outdoor adventure!

All Programmes YoWoChAs Offers

• Develop leadership qualities
• Develop self esteem
• Build interpersonal relationships and friendships
• Foster appreciation for the natural world
• Promote character and value development
• Are fun and educational
• Are available to everyone
  
  • See Summer Camp
  • See Outdoor Education & Retreats
  • See Special Programmes

Inclusive Programmes

• We allow anyone to participate in our programmes.
• Your group's religious and social values direct the programme.
• We work with participants to break down any barriers to participation, whether they be economic, special needs, special diets, cultural, etc.

Food Service

• Our dining hall has a capacity of 160 people.
• Our kitchen staff prepares healthy and nutritious meals based on Canada's Food Guide.
• We work with participants to accommodate allergies and special diets, given advanced notice.
• Meals are served family style and participants assist in table setting and clearing.

Accommodation

• Our heated, winterized accommodations, with washrooms and showers can hold up to 73 people. The Lodge has beds for 39 people and the Residence has beds for 34 people.
• Tent cabins (unheated, no electricity) can accommodate up to 40 people.
• Site cabins (unheated) can accommodate up to 40 people.
• When you stay in the dormitories, we provide house keeping services after your visit!

YoWoChAs Staff

• Are included in your fees at a ratio of 1 YoWoChAs staff member to 30 participants (or portions thereof).
• Additional staff are avaiable at an additional cost.
• Are selected because they demonstrate a genuine interest in helping people grow and develop through outdoor experiences.
• Are safe and well trained in risk management,safety supervision, first aid, CPR and water safety.
• Have a professional interest in outdoor education. We have several full-time programme staff, complemented by seasonal staff who are aspiring outdoor educators, teachers, etc.
• Can accomplish your learning objectives and everyone has lots of fun doing so.
• Have the technical expertise to provide programming in high risk and complex areas.


• Are available from 7:45 am to 9:00 p.m. each day, and are on call for after hours emergencies.

Health & Safety

• YoWoChAs is Accredited by the Alberta Camping Association.
• All waterfront activities are supervised by Lifesaving Society certified lifeguards and lifejackets/PFD's are a must for any boating activity.
• Staff receive safety oriented staff training including training in emergency procedures.
• A team of resource/support staff are available to assist groups 24 hours a day.
• First aiders are available to each group,the camp doctor is 10 minutes away, and Stony Plain Hospital is 30 minutes away.

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