EDMUND RICE CAMPS Dunedin Youth Caring for Youth Mo Nga Tamariki For further information Contact-  Amelia Bresanello Email-  ameliabresanello@hotmail.com	The Edmund Rice Camp project in New Zealand started in 1990 in Dunedin. The Movement originally started in Melbourne in the 1980s.  Edmund Rice Camps are now run throughout Australia as well as Ireland, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania. These camps provide a week long break for children who need a holiday due to their family, financial or social circumstances. There are two groups in New Zealand which offer camps to children who come from such situations – both in Dunedin and Auckland.
	An Edmund Rice Camp lasts for about 4 days. On the first night the leaders come together to prepare for the camp. There are usually as many leaders as groups. Everyone is divided into teams of leaders and children and then rotate around a number of activities. Each team has a team leader and there are two camp captains who organise the programme. There is also a camp coach who is ultimately responsible for the camp.
The CHILDREN are exposed to an environment where they learn to relate well to others in a co-operative manner. They develop a sense of belonging and team spirit and receive affirmation and recognition. The child/leader ratio (1:1) provides many opportunities for friendships and low key but close supervision.	The LEADERS acquire valuable skills in planning, budgeting, leadership and communication. They gain a better understanding of themselves and those less fortunate in our community. The Edmund Rice Camp experience has provided positive career direction for many leaders.