From thought-provoking discussions about conflict resolution to goofy games, from community service projects to a series of Amazing Race-like contests, Camp Fire youth who take part in our teen programs learn about themselves and others while sharpening their leadership skills and talking about the difference they want to make in the world — today and in the future.

Camp Fire teens planting new habitat for butterflies in Discovery Park at the MLK Day of Service.

What does leadership mean to 15-year-old Emma Schmidtzinsky, one of 75 youth who attended this year’s Teen Leadership Retreat in January?

“A leader has to be empathetic and understand other people’s points of view. They have to see the big picture and smaller details. They have to be compassionate, dependable, honest and trustworthy,” says Emma.

Hunter Holeman, 16, learned that to lead effectively, he steps back, gathers the facts, then brings people together to reach a common understanding about a problem they’re trying to solve.

For our annual MLK Day of Service, Hunter and some 40 other teens restored butterfly habitat at Seattle’s Discovery Park.

“It was work, but it was fun. We sang camp songs all day and did something good for the environment,” says Hunter, who also had a blast at the Amazing Race-themed Teen Takeover at Camp Sealth.

Camp Fire teens volunteering at MLK Day of Service.

Empowering Teens to Become Leaders in Their Community

Learn more about our Teen Leadership programs or get involved with our Summer Teen Leadership opportunities. Hear from two more of our dedicated teen leaders at our upcoming Leadership Breakfast on May 17.