Selecting an Adult Supervisor

Included in this section is information to help your church or organization choose an Adult Supervisor for your BWCA group. Selecting the right person as a Supervisor is a crucial element in creating a successful, memorable and Christ-centered Boundary Waters experience.

In selecting an Adult Supervisor, remember that s/he must be at least 21 years of age. Also please consider someone who:

  • Has an ongoing relationship with the campers in their home church/community
  • Will serve as a role model and motivator when it comes to daily tasks
  • Relates well with young people
  • Works well with others and is flexible in ever-changing conditions
  • Will be attentive in supervising campers, and will aid in camper discipline, if necessary

The Adult Supervisor or another group representative is asked to communicate the needs and expectations of the entire group to VLM both before and during your Boundary Waters trip. Please fill out the Boundary Waters Trip Planning Questionnaire attached to this packet and return it to VLM at least 4 weeks prior to arriving at Camp Vermilion. In order to maximize the experience of all campers and Supervisors, it is a great idea to have your group meet prior to the Boundary Waters trip in order to clarify goals and discuss expectations.

VLM takes great care to select thoughtful and capable Boundary Waters Guides. We recommend and encourage you to also take great care in selecting the Adult Supervisor for your Boundary Waters trip.

Adult Supervisors – Please Note:

VLM provides a trained guide to lead your Boundary Waters trip. That person may be either male or female. VLM Guides are certified Lifeguards and trained and certified in First Aid and CPR. The VLM Boundary Waters Guide is the final authority on matters of safety, canoeing, and camping related decisions.

During your Boundary Waters Orientation, the guide will meet privately with the Adult Supervisor to discuss the trip, roles and responsibilities.

Your guide will lead a Bible study that is woven into the daily life in the Boundary Waters. The Adult Supervisor is welcomed and encouraged to participate in the Bible study and share some of its responsibilities, if desired.

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