Whitewater Canoeing Program – Agency Information Welcome to Chicago Voyagers’ whitewater canoeing program. We are looking forward to working with you and the youth from your program. This document contains things which we thought would be helpful to know about the program. Please contact your Program Leader with additional questions. What is it like?

We will raft down the man-made rapids on the Fox River at Yorkville. The rapid is 100 yards long and has four chutes. Once though, the canoes will be portaged back up to run it again. The rapid is class I to II whitewater.

Is it safe?

This is a man-made course, so it is designed not to have some of the more dangerous sections which can be found on wild rapids. The rapid is Class I to II, which are the two easiest of the 6 whitewater classifications. That does not mean it is perfectly safe, no outdoor activity is. This rapid has enough to be exciting for a novice without the same level of danger as the higher level rapids. It is important that everyone follow safety instructions.

How many youth can attend?

This program accommodates 10 youth and two chaperones. We encourage you to bring as many youth as is allowed.

Do I and my teens need canoe experience?

Yes – those wanting to run the rapids need to be able to turn the boat from bow and stern. Two days of canoeing experience with Chicago Voyagers or other ACA certified program is required.

What do we need to bring?

Everyone should bring:     

The CV release-English/Spanish (if they haven’t given us one before this year) a change of clothes (swimsuit is ok to wear, you will probably get wet) sunscreen a hat is a good idea Sandals with heel straps work best since we will be getting our feet wet. No bare feet or flips flops! We have loner Keen sandals available.

Please do not wear jeans. You will probably get wet. What does Chicago Voyagers supply?

We supply canoes, paddles, PFDs, sandals, water and an energy bar.

Should the youth bring cell phones?

Our program is about doing something different and giving teens a break from their regular life so they can focus on their personal growth. Therefore, we’d prefer teens not use their cellphones during our program. You can choose to collect them, or ask teens not to bring them. If cell phone use becomes a problem, we might ask your help in getting them put away.

Where do we meet?

The rapid is located at 301 E. Hydraulic St, Yorkville, IL. It is about an hour from the west or southwest side of Chicago. We will meet in the parking lot next to the park.

How about transportation?

You are responsible for transporting your youth to Busse Woods. We have a group purchasing discount with Enterprise which you are welcome to use. We can also rent a vehicle for you and pick you up for an additional fee.

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What is the agenda?

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Welcome, collection of paperwork Teambuilding activity Land lesson/safety instruction Practice portaging Paddle the rapid multiple times Wrap up discussion of what was learned, pack up, evaluation, payment

What is expected of my teens?

We expect everyone to abide by these rules:

What about weather?

We canoe in all weather and can provide rain jackets if needed. Our staff will be watching the weather and will contact you if severe weather is likely.

Who is our Program Leader?

You will be contacted by your program leader two weeks in advance. If you do not hear from him or her, contact Bernie at [email protected].

1. Respect each other, the natural world and our equipment (no put downs, no interrupting). 2. Try your best & help where there is work to do. 3. Support and encourage each other. 4. Be honest and speak up if you have an idea or if something is bothering you. 5. Things said in the group stay in the group (except for mandated abuse reporting).

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