Phoenix is an intensive 3-day program for high school students. Since its inception, the program has reached hundreds of regional area youth participants. The program takes place at YMCA Camp Collins in Gresham, Oregon. Led by Synergo, regional leaders in youth and adult facilitation, and with the assistance of committed adult volunteers, teens reflect on their lives, assess the causes of their challenges, and set intentions for where they want to go in life. To support these objectives, facilitators work with youth to help develop skills that will foster better decision making, greater self-sufficiency, and a deeper level of leadership and service in the community.

During their time at Camp Collins participants engage in experiential activities that include small group discussions, energizing games/initiatives, storytelling, and creative expression. The participants will also spend an afternoon on the challenge course to learn how to work as a team and develop trust within themselves and the group.

To enhance the impact of the weekend, the Phoenix Program includes four follow-up sessions and a graduation event in the community where the teens live and go to school. This enables participants to remain connected to their Phoenix Community, gain support, and add new skills and knowledge to their tool kits. Students are expected to attend all sessions.

Phoenix Schedule:
Overnight 3 Day Program at Camp Collins*

Lodging and Meals will be provided by Camp Collin

Students will sleep in gender specific cabins with an adult volunteer as their chaperone

4 Follow-Up Sessions during school and an evening graduation*

Graduation Ceremony, typically held at the school in the evening. Participating students invite family, friends, teachers, or anyone that has supported them in life. We hope you can attend!

*The schedule for each program is unique to different schools. Please see the first page of your students’ application packet for the specific dates and times for their three-day program, follow-up sessions, and graduation ceremony.

What do I pack?

Student Quotes about Phoenix Leadership Training and Personal Development:

“Phoenix was a life changing experience.” 
“Phoenix helped me take off masks, be more me and unburden myself.” 
“Phoenix gave me a new perspective on life and how I interpret things, see others and see what I am capable of.”