What to know about youth weekends and registration? Larry Johnson, Camp Shamineau Director, has been a Youth Pastor for 18 years.  The following are some helpful tips from his experience:

Registering for Camp   1.  First determine a conservative number of students you want to bring, and send registration for that number to Camp Shamineau. 2. Advertise to your youth that x number of spaces are available and you will be guaranteed to get in if you register early (first come, first served). 3. If those spaces fill, you can then call Shamineau to see if additional spots are available.  This method helps students commit earlier, so you can avoid paying for pre-registered spots that didn't fill. 4. Also add in leaders to the original number.  Shamineau requires a ratio of 1 leader for 7 students of the same gender.  These leaders need to be youth staff or people who want to serve the youth--not just "chaperones". 5. Complete the registration form, and fax/send it in to camp after the retreat start date.  This date will be indicated in the registration info. 6. Every student and leader needs to fill out a Liability Waiver / Health Release Form.  Bring them with you to camp.  You should also make a copy for yourself to have in case you need to take a student to the hospital.

Preparing for the Weekend 1. With your leaders, plan what you want to accomplish on the retreat, so you can be intentional about planning activities and accomplishing your goals. 2. If you want your group to develop a servant's heart, plan an activity such as bussing other groups' tables after a meal.  Take advantage of the low ropes course for teambuilding and communication development, and remember that the students are watching you and your leaders' attitude during sports and other activities. 3. Pray that God will do some great things, and keep your eyes open for those key opportunities.

During the Weekend 1. These weekends are programmed so you don't have to.  If you have other activities you would like to do as a youth group, talk to the Program Director.  We want you to get the most out of the weekend.  2. Use our staff--their desire is to help your group grow closer to God in any way they can. 3. If you have any questions or need any help, please ask!

After the Weekend 1. We would love to hear your feedback as it helps us to continually improve. 2. Shamineau staff would love to hear about how God worked in the lives of your students!!! 3. Remember to follow up with your students as they often make some pretty big "life" decisions at camp.