Camp LEAD for Pender County, North Carolina Students
A proven leadership program recruiting teens from Burgaw, Hampstead, Surf City & beyond
Camp LEAD—from the National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education (NCOAE)—is a research-informed, experiential leadership program open to students ages 8-11 who live or attend school in or near Pender County. While the program is delivered in the greater Cape Fear region, Camp LEAD actively enrolls Pender County participants and partners with local schools and youth organizations for referral, schedules, and student support. Explore the curriculum and dates here: https://ncoae.org/courses/camp-lead/.
Who in Pender County We Serve
From river towns to the Topsail barrier islands, we welcome applicants from communities such as:
- Burgaw (county seat), Rocky Point, Hampstead
- Surf City and Topsail Beach
Atkinson, St. Helena, Watha, Currie, and surrounding areas
Why Camp LEAD Fits Pender County Tweens
Pender County blends coastal, river, and rural landscapes—ideal backdrops for hands-on leadership development. Camp LEAD uses challenge-by-choice activities and guided reflection to help students turn real-world tasks into durable life skills.
What Participants Gain
- Clear communication, active listening, and conflict resolution
- Teamwork, goal setting, and shared decision-making
- Personal resilience, time management, and accountability
- Environmental stewardship connected to coastal and river ecosystems
Program Advantages
- Low student-to-instructor ratios with professional NCOAE educators
- Flexible formats (school-day integrations, after-school series, immersive sessions)
- Cohorts available for sports teams, clubs, JROTC, and community partners
- Scholarship opportunities and group enrollment support
How To Participate From Pender County
Families, counselors, coaches, and PCS educators can refer students directly. Camp LEAD coordinates dates that complement athletics, testing windows, and major school events. Transportation and logistics are planned with families and partners to ensure access for students across the county.
Next steps
- Review curriculum, dates, and enrollment details: Camp LEAD by NCOAE → https://ncoae.org/courses/camp-lead/
- Prepare a shortlist of interested students or a school-based cohort
- Contact NCOAE to discuss placement, funding options, and custom group scheduling
Developing confident, service-minded leaders from Burgaw to the Topsail communities—Camp LEAD welcomes Pender County students ready to step up and lead.