Youth Leadership Principles Learned at OFY

Becoming Disciples of Christ & Developing Christlike Attributes

Christ is the example of a perfect leader. He showed compassion, humility, forgiveness, patience, kindness, love, and strength. There are ways that you can develop these qualities in simple and powerful ways at OFY. You can offer support and praise during an activity, help someone who is feeling sick, or sit with someone who might be lonely. Showing gratitude and respect at OFY is another way to further develop into a Christlike leader. Acting on spiritual promptings, participating in devotionals and sharing your testimony will help you to become a stronger Disciple of Christ and leader.

Resilience 

Leaders are often faced with challenges. Resilience is the ability to stay calm and adapt and keep a positive outlook in challenging situations rather than giving up. Practicing resilience builds confidence and problem-solving skills.

When you complete a difficult hike, manage an unexpected change of weather or work through a group challenge you are building resilience. Being a leader requires you to be able to roll with the punches and adapt to whatever situations come your way.

Unity

Unity is at the heart of effective leadership. Camp experiences such as rafting trips, sharing testimonies, building friendships, or tackling a ropes course encourages participants to develop important leadership skills while creating unity. When we work together and support each other we can create an environment where everyone can learn and become more united and grow together.

Service

Service is an important leadership principle that can be practiced at OFY. When leaders also serve others they will gain more respect, purpose, and empathy. You can practice participating in service by helping set up or take down activities and meals. Small random acts of kindness are also a great way to practice serving others. An example of this is leaving people kind and encouraging messages. 

Final Thoughts 

Overall, OFY provides a powerful environment for youth to grow as leaders by strengthening their discipleship of Christ, building resilience, fostering unity, and practicing service. Through meaningful activities, spiritual experiences, and daily interactions, participants learn that true leadership is not about authority, but about example, adaptability, and love for others. The principles learned at OFY extend far beyond the camp experience, equipping youth to lead with faith, compassion, and confidence in their homes, schools, communities, and future callings.