FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
2026 GOLDEYE CO-OPERATIVE YOUTH LEADERSHIP CAMP
If your question isn’t answered below, we’re happy to help. Contact campinfo@ufa.com.
Learn more about our Camp Behaviour Policy.
WHAT IS THE GOLDEYE CO-OPERATIVE YOUTH LEADERSHIP CAMP?
About the Camp:
The Goldeye Co-operative Youth Leadership Camp is a five-day summer program designed to help youth build confidence, leadership skills, teamwork, and an understanding of cooperation, agriculture, and community.
Participants enjoy classic camp activities—campfires, field games, swimming, canoeing, talent night, and more—alongside facilitated workshops focused on communication, leadership, self-esteem, cooperative values, and personal growth.
Campers leave with new friendships, a stronger sense of belonging, and skills they can use at school, at work, and in their communities.
Program Background:
For over 60 years, the Co-operative Youth Leadership Camp has been held at the Goldeye Centre, executed by ACCA (Alberta Community and Co-operative Association) with support from many community partners. The camps are now being brought back under the Goldeye Foundation Society.
2026 Camp Dates:
Teen Camp (ages 13–14): July 6 – 10, 2026
Youth Camp (ages 15–16): July 13 – 17, 2026
WHAT AGE IS THE CAMP FOR?
Teen Camp: Ages 13–14
Youth Camp: Ages 15–16
Maximum campers per session: 45
WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE CAMP
Campers can expect a fun, active, and meaningful five-day experience that blends classic camp activities with hands-on leadership learning.
Camp experiences include:
- Campfires, field games, and team challenges
- Swimming and canoeing at the lake
- Talent night, group activities, and social time
- Hands-on learning and interactive sessions
Facilitated workshops focused on communication, leadership, agriculture, team building, self-esteem, co-operatives, and values
Campers will meet new friends, build confidence, try new things, and discover their own leadership strengths in a supportive and inclusive environment.
HOW DO I GET THERE?
Transportation by bus is provided from designated UFA locations leaving from Airdrie and Edmonton with several stops along the way. Lunch will be provided.
The bus cost is included in the registration fee and is non-refundable.
Participants are encouraged to take the bus both to and from camp to ensure everyone arrives and departs together and to start building friendships early.
Buses are supervised by qualified volunteers to ensure a safe, positive, and enjoyable journey.
If a participant does not wish to take the bus
Alternative arrangements must be discussed with the Camp Coordinator (campinfo@ufa.com, Liane Courchesne – Dingman 403-570-4501) prior to the program.
Full bus schedules, departure times, and locations will be included in the pre-camp information package, sent prior to camp.
WHAT IS THE CAMP TO STAFF RATIO?
The camp has a maximum of 45 campers and 10 staff and volunteer facilitators, resulting in a 4.5:1 camper-to-staff ratio.
This ensures meaningful supervision, guidance, and mentorship, while allowing staff and volunteers to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences.
HOW ARE VOLUNTEER FACILITATORS SELECTED AND TRAINED?
Many facilitators are alumni of past programs, employees of co-operatives, credit unions, school teachers, and community leaders passionate about inspiring youth.
Selection Process:
- Application, references, and interview
- Criminal record check
Training:
- 48 hours of on-site pre-camp training
- Covers child safety, leadership, teamwork, workshop facilitation, conflict resolution, and emergency procedures
Medical & Safety Support:
- Lifeguard with First Aid, CPR-C, and NLS certifications for waterfront activities
- Designated First Aid Attendants with valid First Aid/CPR-C certifications
- Camp Coordinator on-site 24/7 as Primary First Aider
IS THERE TRAINED MEDICAL STAFF ON SITE?
Yes. Safety is a top priority.
- Designated First Aid Attendants are present at each camp
- Staff hold valid First Aid and CPR-C certifications
- Lifeguards with First Aid, CPR-C, and NLS certification are on duty during waterfront activities
- The Camp Coordinator oversees all medical and safety matters
WHAT IS THE CAMP CODE OF CONDUCT?
All participants are expected to:
- Treat others with respect
- Participate fully and positively in activities
- Follow camp rules and staff/facilitator instructions
- Help create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment
- Full details are outlined in the Participant Standards of Behaviour, provided prior to camp. See also the Camp Behaviour Policy.
CAN I CONTACT MY CHILD WHILE THEY ARE AT THE PROGRAM? CAN THEY CALL HOME?
There will be a set time each day when campers can call home if they wish.
Any other calls or messages due to special circumstances must be arranged with the Camp Coordinator (campinfo@ufa.com, Liane Courchesne – Dingman 403-570-4501).
If a camper is homesick, staff provide support through activities, one-on-one encouragement, and regular check-ins. Parents/guardians are contacted if additional support is needed.
In emergencies, the camp cell phone is on 24/7, and all guardians are provided with the contact number.
CAN I COME VISIT MY CHILD AT THE PROGRAM?
To ensure a safe, focused, and consistent camp experience for all participants, visits from parents or guardians are not permitted during the camp week. The program is jam-packed with activities designed to foster a tight-knit, trusting community, and limiting interruptions helps campers fully engage and build confidence, friendships, and independence.
If there are extenuating circumstances or emergencies, please contact the Camp Coordinator (campinfo@ufa.com, Liane Courchesne – Dingman 403-570-4501) to discuss options.
WHAT IS THE FOOD? LIKE CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE DIETARY NEEDS?
Goldeye Lake Mountain Resort has an on-site chef who prepares healthy, balanced meals and snacks. Campers will be well fed throughout the week.
Dietary requirements and allergies can be accommodated if noted on the Participant Health Form during registration. Changes must be communicated via email before camp begins.
Send any changes to campinfo@ufa.com or contact Liane Courchesne – Dingman 403-570-4501.
Campers may bring snacks for travel days only; all other food is provided.
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 ensures medication is administered according to the Participant Health Form or as needed.
Medications must be in the original container or bubble-packed form labeled with the camper’s name.
WHAT ARE THE SLEEPING ACCOMMODATIONS?
- Bunk-style cabins accommodating approximately 19 youth + 1 staff supervisor
- Cabins organized by gender
- Campers bring their own bedding
Requests related to gender identity or special circumstances are welcomed; please contact the Camp Coordinator (campinfo@ufa.com, Liane Courchesne – Dingman 403-570-4501).
WHAT SHOULD CAMPERS BRING?
Campers will receive a detailed packing list in the pre-camp information package emailed in May.
WHAT IS THE COST OF CAMP?
Registration Fee: $825 – often paid by a sponsor
Participant Fee: $275 – often paid by the participant
Fees cover accommodation, meals, snacks, programming, supplies, and transportation.
IS FINANCIAL SUPPORT AVAILABLE?
Yes. Sponsorship support is available:
Campers are encouraged to find a sponsor to cover the registration fee ($825).
Participants are expected to pay the participant fee ($275).
If a participant does not have a sponsor at registration, indicate this on the form; we will do our best to assign sponsors or provide assistance.
WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL REGISTRATION?
If your child is unable to attend camp, please contact us as soon as possible at campinfo@ufa.com, or call Liane Courchesne – Dingman 403-570-4501.
Not attending camp does not automatically cancel a registration.
Refunds are only considered in cases of emergency or serious illness with documentation.
If your child can’t attend, you may also send a substitute in their place, as long as we are notified at least two (2) weeks before camp and the substitute meets eligibility requirements.
A refund with more than two (2) weeks notice, the camper registration fee will be reimbursed minus $150 .00 to cover administration costs. Notice given with less than two (2) weeks notice, no refund will be issued.
Bus transportation is included in the registration fee. If your child chooses not to ride the bus, the registration cost remains the same.
Participants are expected to follow camp rules. The camp may dismiss participants for misconduct or not following rules, and in these cases, no refund will be given.
If a participant does not complete the program due to not following camp rules, families may be required to repay the sponsor-funded portion of the registration fee.
ARE CELL PHONES ELECTRONIC DEVICES ALLOWED?
Camp is a wonderful opportunity for participants to “unplug” and fully focus on all that the program has to offer—without the distraction of social media or personal devices. This allows campers to be fully present, participate in activities, interact with peers, build friendships, and appreciate the outdoor environment.
To encourage connection and full participation:
- Cell phones and internet-enabled devices are collected on the first day.
- Devices are securely stored and returned on the last day.
- Camp staff phones are always available for youth to contact home.
- Parents/guardians may contact the camp at any time if needed.
All other personal electronic devices should be left at home. Parents and guardians can follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see photos and updates of campers throughout the week.
HOW DO I GET A RECEIPT?
Receipts are issued by Goldeye following payment. For inquiries, contact the Camp Coordinator (campinfo@ufa.com, Liane Courchesne – Dingman 403-570-4501).