The program is for High School youth entering grades 11-12, also open to seniors graduating. Each four-week session progresses from learning and practicing skills to applying them under the guidance of an experienced youth ministry staff member, with younger campers. You will get to engage our younger campers in a variety of settings and situations, under guidance from our youth ministry staff - outdoor games, campfires, horse rides, the "Canteen" snack shop, service projects, and other activities. Your cohort will spend time as a community experiencing - and leading - faith & life talks, Bible studies, activities, sessions led by guest presenters, and hands-on activities, as you explore your calling to apply your own unique gifts and change the world for the better.

The program is led by a qualified, experienced Sugar Creek staff member, the LEAD Coordinator. The LEAD Coordinator facilitates many of the trainings and organizes daily activities. Guest presenters will include community leaders, experienced staff of camps and congregations, and other resource people to contribute to your experience.

Each summer brings two options for LEAD sessions. This year, Session 1 is June 9 – July 3. Session 2 is July 7 – August 2. Please indicate which session you prefer in this application.

To apply for acceptance into the LEAD program with a full tuition scholarship ($3,200), please complete this form online. The application requires that you list two references. These need to be adults you choose such as pastors, teachers, or employers, who know your character and are not related to you. Our staff will contact these references in the weeks following your application. Program Director, Stephanie Engel, may also contact you to set up an interview by Zoom. 

In addition to covering your program costs, Sugar Creek provides LEAD participants with a small stipend of $25/week spending money (no purchases are required) plus lodging and meals. Weekends are time off, during which participants usually spend it at home. Weekends are not part of the program, and are not supervised by the LEAD Coordinator from Fridays afternoon to Sundays at noon; however, camp staff will be onsite, and on call.

If you or your parents have any questions, call or email us anytime. We'd love to help you explore whether it's right for you. The program is limited to just 12 people each session. Acceptance is based on qualifications, ability to attend the entire session, and timeliness of your application. Initial selections will be made February 29, 2024 and on a rolling basis from there.