HERO’S JOURNEY®
The Hero’s Journey® program is a 6-day outdoor adventure program designed for 16-18 year olds affected by serious illness and their siblings. Based on the philosophies of Joseph Campbell, Kurt Hahn, Paul Newman and the Adventure-Based Counseling model, The Hero’s Journey® program gets its name from the “hero’s” experience as they embark on a new adventure. The week emphasizes and celebrates the fact that each of us are on our own personal hero’s journey. While engaging in communal living in the woods and individual and team building initiatives, the week celebrates how each of us are on our own personal hero’s journey. Hero’s Journey® provides opportunities for participants to act skillfully in the service of others, examine perceived limitations, discover unknown skills they possess, and to take on the role of the “Hero of their own story”.
The Hero's Journey® mark is used under license from the Joseph Campbell Foundation (www.jcf.org).
Below is a sample schedule of a typical day in the Hero’s Journey® program.
8 a.m.
Wake Up
8:30 a.m.
Breakfast & Morning Gather-up
Connect with fellow Heros while making breakfast at the campsite.
9:30 a.m.
Team Building Initiative
Develop communication and teamwork skills by working together on wilderness activities and challenges.
10:30 a.m.
Hike
Take a deep breath and move your body with a hike through the woods.
11:30 a.m.
Wilderness First Aid Lesson
12:30 p.m.
Lunch on the Trail
1:30 p.m.
Chill Time
Relax back at the campsite with a quiet card game, journalling, hammock time or a refreshing outdoor shower.
2:30 p.m.
Mindfulness
Discover more about yourself with guided mindfulness practices.
3 p.m.
Individual Leadership Activity
4 p.m.
Ropes Course
5 p.m.
Dinner
Dinner is made over a campfire but always delicious.
7 p.m.
Group Reflection
Sit down near the campfire and reconnect with fellow Heros to reflect on the day.
9:30 p.m.
Nighttime Routines
10 p.m.
Lights Out
Sweet dreams as you drift off to sleep in the yurt or tent.
Camper Story
I have found that upon returning home from HJ, I do not have words to describe how much this program meant to me, which I believe only proves how meaningful it was. The staff has literally left me speechless, through their tireless work and dedication to campers and the program. I was amazed by everyone's positive attitudes and ability to gel as a team. I would not trade this experience for anything. It has greatly enhanced my world view and I know it will greatly impact the work I do, all in positive ways.
Did you know?
The Hero’s Journey program is based on the tenants of Joseph Campbell.
