Teen Leadership

The progression of all Camp Fire USA programs advances youth towards greater opportunities for leadership, responsibility, independence and support for youth, peers and community. The Heart of the Hawkeye Council has been at the forefront of leadership programs and they remain a vital component of our efforts year-round.

Day Camp Aide Program - Entering 7-10th grades
Day Camp Aides assist counselors with day camp activities.  Aides will be doing volunteer work with the day camp for parts of daily programs, and will have the opportunity to participate in recreation activities and field trips during other portions of the week.  The Aide program encourages leadership and skill building, with opportunities to both teach and learn within quality day camps. You must complete an application and read and sumbit a job description form prior to registering.

Leadership Challenge (LC) and Buckaroo - Entering 10th grade
During their 10th grade year, many youth are ready to take on the challenge and tradition of leadership. The Leadership Challenge/Buckaroo program can be the first step. During this two week overnight camp session, campers will define themselves as leaders through team challenges, study mentoring styles, develop citizenship through service learning, interact as role models with campers and track their progress.  Buckaroos spend time at Herman’s Ranch beginning the development of their teaching abilities and increasing their riding skills. 

Apprentice and Wrangler -Entering 11-12th grades- Apprentice and Wrangler at Hantesa Overnight Camp is a service oriented, 4-week program that readies you for future leadership roles.  Typical apprenticeships are two summers in length.  Your role in camp begins the transition from youth to adulthood.  During your experience you will conduct live-in studies in units across camp and learn directly from our exceptional staff the responsibilities of role modeling and caring for our future leaders.  Wranglers conduct their live-ins at Herman’s Ranch.  You must submit an application, camp registration form, and deposit. Deposits will be returned in full to applicants who are not accepted to the Apprentice/Wrangler Program.


Navigator Programs
Navigator offers an opportunity for middle school populations to make personal growth as individuals and leaders as they prepare to transition into secondary education.  This afterschool program utilizes Camp Fire curriculum and staff towards specific outcome based programs in central Iowa. To be effective future leaders, youth need practical experience in assuming, and thriving in, leadership roles.  To maximize this development, the Navigator program also provides a structure and process for skill development, increased understanding of self and confidence building.  Assessment of individual youth skills interests and needs fundamental facets of program delivery.   Leadership programming will be founded in team-building, goal setting, community service, as well as unique outdoor-based challenges.