Youth Program

The MCC Senor Expedition Leaders from the North and South offices came together for a quick, three-day camping trip at Hunter’s Gulch, just outside of Helena. The temperature was low, but spirits were high as we engaged in educational workshops, teambuilders, and other fun activities.

This was the first time officially coming together in person as the youth MCC team! The crew quickly bonded over various team builders and icebreakers such as cards, Star Wars, and Bippity Bop, and ended as friends and teammates joining together in an Affirmation Circle.

We also joined the Central Divide Field Crew Leaders in some training exercises and workshops to prepare us for living our best (and safest) life in the woods. Topics included backcountry hygiene, cooking, water filtration, bear hangs, as well as stream crossings.

After workdays of training and team building, we ended each night bonding by firelight. One night, a campfire bake-off broke out! The Youth team baked cinnamon rolls on a stick. Central Divide baked banana boats and apple “crisp” (baked apples and Rice Krispies). Other fireside activities included a ukulele sing-along and campsite games. The nights were filled with equal parts campfire smoke and laughter.

This short trip was a great way to kick off the outdoor season, and we can’t wait to see what else is in store as the weather warms!