Camp Staff
Many of our staff started out as campers, and bring a great range of skills to our program. All staff at Adventure Camp hold current Standard First Aid and CPR Certificates and have been subject to a Vulnerable Sector Check. All waterfront staff hold Lifesaving Society NLS or Bronze Cross awards, as well as Red Cross Water Safety Instructor or Lifesaving Society Swim Instructor certifications. The camp director is a Trained Person in Operation of Small Drinking Water Systems.
CEO - Shirley 'Braveheart' Black
As the CEO of York Professional Care & Education, Shirley oversees the full child care operations, with a special focus on our camps and outdoor education. Originally from Scotland, Shirley believes strongly in the importance and value of outdoor experiences for all children. Shirley is a Registered Early Childhood Educator from Centennial College and a NNEB from Motherwell Technical College in Scotland.
Outdoor Education Coordinator & Camp Director - Colleen Pakkidis - 'Puddles'
Colleen holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Ryerson University in Early Childhood Education. She has traveled extensively through her career to visit international nature and forest school programs to enhance her love and passion for outdoor learning.
Colleen has worked over seeing multiple licensed children care centres and camp programs for more than 20 years.
With a diverse background in administration, risk management, team training and outdoor learning, Colleen approaches camp with passion, energy and heart. She is deeply committed to each campers experience at camp to ensure it is a welcoming and inclusive environment full of happiness and memories.
In addition to being a Registered Early Childhood Educator, Colleen is a Certified Forest and Nature School Practitioner.