Camp is based on staff, not stuff.
Our Counsellors come from a diverse set of backgrounds, interests, and abilities. What they share is a commitment to growth, a curiosity towards life, and a drive to do well.
Chosen Deliberately.
To build dynamic and capable Campers we must show them it is possible. We train all of our Counsellors in everything we do (seriously). To build resilience we must show people that they are capable. The first step in that is setting the expectation. Our staff have over 100 hours of training before each season.
Trained Extensively.
It takes a village.
Ours is nation-wide. With national certifications including LSS First Aid, CPR & AED, Paddle Canada Lakewater Canoeing, Bronze Cross & Medallion, and Climbing Safety; our Counsellors build themselves through recognized and established channels.
Certified Proudly.
Applications, trainings, and certifications are simply the start. What truly has the biggest impact is the connection, support, and ongoing push to do well. With Counsellor to Camper ratios between 1:6 and 1:8, the program is based on meaningful connection.
Connected Always.
A note from the Director:
John Savage
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Bachelor of Science Econ. (Memorial University)
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Masters in HKR (Memorial University)
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Paddle Canada Canoe Instructor Trainer
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Life Saving Society of Canada First Aid, Swim, and Life Saving Instructor
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PADI certified
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President of NB Camping Association
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Past Treasurer of Canadian Camping Association
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Past Member of GNB's South East Regional Recreation Board
Hey folks!
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My name is John and I am proud to have been in a position to care for Camp Centennial for many years now. Although I was a Camper here for a short stint, I would say my connection with this place truly began as a Counsellor. After many years working with the original owner, Owen Fraser, there was no doubt in my mind the value of a place that focused on capacity over anything else in a person. ​​​
There are a great many things about Camp Centennial that makes me proud. Not least of all is the consistency. The organization, as it is now, has operated for over 30 years. The experience young people have in the world has changed drastically in that time but both the days and the approaches that are core here haven’t changed. Not due to a lack of reflection but based on understanding. ​
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We’re cellphone free because we’ve always wanted to connect on a personal level. We’re outside because we’ve always known it’s do-able, meaningful, and fun.
We build resiliency and capacity because we know how to, believe in the journey, and are able to have a lot of fun doing it.
That is what summer camps are for.
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So whether you're a young person thinking they might want to be a Counsellor, a Camper looking for something to do this summer, a Parent trying to understand what the value of this program is, or simply someone in the community looking to chat, I encourage you to reach out or even better come say hi!
Hope to see you around the Campfire soon.
"The only difference between try and triumph is a little umph"
