The compass

We received an explanation to why our first phone call home was only 5 minutes. Phone time is a privilege that campers earn as they advance through the various levels of camp. We are not sure what level Kinz is on as we will not talk to her until Thursday. We hope that she is a step three "Adventurer" as with this step she will receive 15 minutes of phone time. To reach this step, however, she had to average 15,000 pedometer steps per day, amongst other things. Hopefully joining the running club helped her get there. Below is a brief explanation of the various steps.

We have all heard the expression “life is a journey”. Here at Wellspring Adventure Camp (WAC), campers will be undertaking a new, exciting and challenging journey where they will learn much about themselves, a healthy lifestyle and how to return home and follow a new, healthier path. At WAC, we use the “Compass” levels – a set of directions to help campers navigate along the path to health and permanent lifestyle change. The Compass levels are also designed to provide support and motivation when campers face challenges.

As campers progress through the levels of the WAC Compass, they will experience the successes and struggles of balancing responsibilities and personal time. While campers earn material rewards, praise, and community recognition through the Compass, the true prize is the internal discipline and emotional maturity they will retain for a lifetime.

In order to progress along the Compass, campers need to keep track of progress. By monitoring their progress in self-monitoring journals, their work will be ready for review once requirements have been completed.

Step One: Traveler

At WAC, campers begin as travelers – Travelers on a new path, open to learning more about themselves and a healthy lifestyle. All campers have come from different communities and are joining together to form a new community and way of life. As Travelers, campers will begin to learn about the program and its expectations. This is also their chance to find their place in the community and begin to learn more about themselves.

Step Two: Explorer

Explorers are willing to experience discomfort and to try new things. At WAC, Explorers will have many new experiences, begin to take more healthy risks and are motivated to create a healthier life.

Step Three: Adventurer

Adventures are travelers and explorers combined. As Adventurers at WAC, campers will take time to learn about where they are venturing and make sure they are prepared for the variety of situations and challenges they encounter as long-term weight controllers (LTWCs). Adventurers mentor Travelers and share with them what they have learned about the journey so far.

Step Four: Discoverer

A Discoverer is someone who is not only actively seeking, but who is also finding. During this stage of the Compass, campers are finding their way along the path to a healthier life. They are demonstrating a commitment to achieving their goals.

Step Five: Guide

In the world of traveling, a Guide is someone who has a lot of traveling experience. As Guides, campers have confidence not only in their ability to take care of themselves in challenging situations, but to also support others. Guides lead by example and want to share experiences with others. Guides understand that, even in challenging situations, they must care for themselves first.

Step Six: Chief Guide

Chief Guide is the highest level achievable at WAC. Chief Guides understand that, even in challenging situations, they must care for themselves first. Chief Guides on the WAC Compass show a strong commitment to a healthy lifestyle. The program is now a way of life and old ways of living are simply not an option. Chief Guides at WAC provide support for and become a mentor to others who are just beginning their journeys. Chief Guides will be given junior staff responsibilities and other leadership opportunities.


What a journey! Please keep all these kids in your prayers.

Today their cabin participated in the following activities:
Campers begin the day with the timed mile. Four way kickball and an abtastic class followed after breakfast. The girls then prepared for an exciting trip into the field! First destination: indoor rock climbing!