Zipperman has developed an approach over 14 years that he described as “good, all-around experience.” There is a little bit of bushcraft, some outdoor education, some survival skills, a little leadership training, some competitive events, some team building. In addition to daily lessons in the woods, the camps also touch some deeper issues. For the boys, much of the discussion and curriculum center on topics such as honor and integrity. “We ask the young men ‘What is a hero?’” he said. Often that definition changes during the week. For the girls’ camp, “it’s more about self-image - counteracting television and commercials and the images the girls are presented. We want them to feel better about themselves whoever they are.” Zipperman has experience with young people being involved in the Gilmer County community for the past 20 years, including work with Gilmer Family Connections and providing a program for the past four years at Gilmer Boys and Girls Club. “This is the time where young people move from adolescents to young adulthood,” he said. “This is like a rite of passage. We help young people move intentionally into a young adult. We use nature and we have mentors, counselors and staff, challenging outdoor activities. Through the challenges and different processes there is
Zipperman has developed an approach over 14 years that he described as “good, all-around experience.” There is a little bit of bushcraft, some outdoor education, some survival skills, a little leadership training, some competitive events, some team building. In addition to daily lessons in the woods, the camps also touch some deeper issues. For the boys, much of the discussion and curriculum center on topics such as honor and integrity. “We ask the young men ‘What is a hero?’” he said. Often that definition changes during the week. For the girls’ camp, “it’s more about self-image - counteracting television and commercials and the images the girls are presented. We want them to feel better about themselves whoever they are.” Zipperman has experience with young people being involved in the Gilmer County community for the past 20 years, including work with Gilmer Family Connections and providing a program for the past four years at Gilmer Boys and Girls Club. “This is the time where young people move from adolescents to young adulthood,” he said. “This is like a rite of passage. We help young people move intentionally into a young adult. We use nature and we have mentors, counselors and staff, challenging outdoor activities. Through the challenges and different processes there is