Programs
Outdoor Programs...
ACES
The Sunshine Council developed the Advanced Camping Experts (ACES) program over 20 years ago. The ACES program teaches leadership, decision-making, teamwork, self-reliance skills using outdoor education as a medium. Council-held trainings, basic-to-advanced outdoor-living skills, community and council service hours, and various leadership roles prepare the teens to attend Primitive Camp. The “Red Shirt” is awarded at the successful completion of Primitive Camp. After three years of training this is one of the highest honors a Sunshine Council teen may earn. The ACES program is available to teens sixth grade and older.CAMP
Camping is a long-standing tradition of Camp Fire USA. The Sunshine Council offers Spring Camp and Fall Camp to registered Camp Fire clubs and families. Whether tent camping or cabin camping, members will find the camp experience to be a theme-based weekend with just the right mix of fun and education where they will create memories that last a lifetime. Themes range from The Sixties to Medieval Times.
In addition to Spring and Fall Camp, the Sunshine Council occasionally offers fun Family Camp and many other camping opportunities for teens and youth members.NATURE QUEST
Nature Quest offers outdoor, environmental education programs and service projects on Florida’s ecosystems, wetlands, and wildlife designed to enrich the lives and knowledge of individuals, families, and groups. Through a collaboration project with the City of Lakeland, the Camp Fire USA Sunshine Council’s program center now borders a wetlands habitat.NATURE QUEST CAMP
Nature Quest is an environmental education based service-learning trip for teens. Teen will travel by van throughout Central Florida learning more about the wonderful state, exploring the many facets of Florida wildlife and ecosystems, and learning about environmental advocacy, while giving back to the communities they visit.Whether a great first step on the way to a more intensive CF66 trip or a fantastic opportunity to check-out the amazing things in their own backyard, Nature Quest will be an incredible experience. The trip is full of youth empowerment and leadership opportunities. Nature Quest Camp is available to teens sixth grade and older.
ALTERNATIVE SPRING BREAK (ASB)
Every spring break, Camp Fire gives teens, sixth through twelfth grade the chance to make a difference in the world. ASB trips, usually lasting three to five days, are full of fun, adventure, and tons of service. A great way for teens to meet new people and be empowered with the knowledge that they can accomplish amazing things. Past trips have included building reef balls, removing invasive exotic plants, and hurricane recovery efforts in Louisiana. ASB trips combine service, camping, excursions and more.ENVIRONMENTAL YOUTH CORPS. (EYC)
EYC is a program for teens that are dedicated to environmental service, education, and outdoors rec. Activities include monthly service projects, camping trips, and advocacy efforts throughout our community. Designed to inspire teens with an appreciation and love of the outdoors.
