Dave Douglas has spent over three decades organizing week-long leadership camps for youth, and though he’s been recognized with multiple awards for his work, it’s spending time with the kids that keeps him coming back.
“It’s nice to be recognized,” said Douglas, who received the Service Above Self award at a recent Rotary conference. “But I would do this for no recognition and no payment whatsoever. It’s all about the kids.”
This year Douglas will be hosting an annual leadership camp at Selkirk College from July 4 to 11, and he has 51 students attending.
His charges, who range in age from 18 to 25, have already graduated high school and are now benefiting from Rotary’s programming and Douglas’ tutelage.
But even more can benefit from his expertise, because he’s written a book called Leading the Way which is already on its third printing.
“I didn’t want to write another textbook, so this is mostly short vignettes illustrating leadership. It’s been very successful, and is being used in other programs across North America.”
He said he finds his work very rewarding.
“I sometimes wonder if i get more of out it than the campers do. They are so full of energy and life. It’s nice to be among them, because it keeps me young,” said the 72-year-old.
Douglas worked for School District 8, retiring in 2003. But ever since he’s been continuing to work with youth.
For more information on the camp email dave@douglasclan.ca or phone 250-354-8418.