A Ukrainian Summer: where to go, what to do...
On the shores of Lake Simcoe, a Youth Leadership Course for teens
by Natalie Payne
TORONTO - For the past three summers, the Ukrainian National Federation of Canada has hosted its very successful Youth Leadership Course at Camp Sokil on the shores of Lake Simcoe near Hawkestone, Ontario.
Ukrainian teens age 13-18 are invited to attend a two-week program that begins on Sunday, July 25, and ends on Sunday, August 8, with a concert for parents and guests.
The varied program includes leadership skills and Ukrainian cultural activities, plus outdoor recreation and sports. Leadership training at the camp is enlivened by cooperative games and social events.
Discussions during the Youth Leadership Course will explore the meaning of being Ukrainian in North America.
Visiting artists provide instruction in bandura playing, choral singing and folk dancing. Pysanka-making, embroidery and other Ukrainian crafts are taught by visiting artisans.
The students' talents are showcased in a concert with a special theme held on the last day of camp. Past themes have included "Obzhynky" (Ukrainian harvest rituals) and an amusing presentation of a Ukrainian wedding.
The wonderful beach is a focal point for relaxing and swimming. The grounds also have tennis courts, a baseball diamond, hiking trails and a soccer field. In the evening, campers enjoy dances or bonfires. The opportunity to have fun and make new friends is evidenced by the many campers who return each summer.
The UNF's Camp Sokil, which provides the facilities for the Youth Leadership Course, is located 60 miles (100 kilometers) north of Toronto on the west shore of beautiful Lake Simcoe.
For further information call the Ukrainian National Federation of Canada, (416) 236-0750 or (416) 225-9845; or camp director, Alexander Hordienko, (416) 235-1848. Information is available also on the website at http://campsokil.8m.com/.
Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, May 2, 1999, No. 18, Vol. LXVII
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