All organizations need people who communicate, plan, trust, cooperate and work together as a team. Mistrust, miscommunication, mixed agendas and non-cooperation hinder personal and organizational growth. The COPE program helps your group build a cohesive working environment.
The C.O.P.E. (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience) program involves some physical activity, but the philosophies of C.O.P.E. go far beyond the physical challenges involved. The activities in C.O.P.E. are designed to benefit the individual by working as part of the group. It is not a competitive activity, and no one can ‘fail’ at COPE.
Eight major goals are commonly associated with C.O.P.E.:
- Development of Leadership
- Problem Solving
- Communication
- Self-esteem
- Trust
- Decision Making
- Team Work
- Planning
The C.O.P.E. program can be experienced on two different levels: high and low. While the high challenge course is designed to promote self-esteem and is based on achieving personal goals, the low challenge course focuses on the foundations of team work and problem-solving within a group atmosphere.
The experience offers the creation of a decision making process by encouraging the group to perform when the results are uncertain. It provides an opportunity to prove to the group that a seemingly insurmountable task or problem can be overcome; all in a safe environment with mutual support and encouragement.
Who Can Participate in the C.O.P.E. Program?
The C.O.P.E. program is designed for groups interested in developing self-confidence and teamwork in a group setting. The C.O.P.E. challenge course is designed to provide maximum adaptability to each group’s specific needs and interests. The C.O.P.E. challenge course serves businesses and corporations as well as groups from schools, churches and civic organizations. Participants must be age 13 or older.
Who Operates the Course?
The C.O.P.E. program is sponsored by the Boy Scouts of America. The Winnebago Council, located in Waterloo, Iowa operates its own course under the policies and guidelines set forth by the National Office of the Boy Scouts of America. The facilitators are professionals in the Cedar Valley area, trained at the National C.O.P.E. Directors School.
Your Group’s C.O.P.E. Experience
The C.O.P.E. program is a flexible experience that can be custom designed specifically for your group. Course length can be from a few hours to several days. The experience takes place at the Ingawanis Adventure Base Boy Scout Camp near Waverly, Iowa. This program provides a vehicle for groups to challenge themselves to reach personal and team goals. C.O.P.E. is designed to break down barriers between individuals and create an atmosphere of shared leadership and problem solving.
More Information about C.O.P.E.
The C.O.P.E. program is designed to fit your schedule. Weekday or weekend course are available. The course is operated year-round, however the most popular times are spring and fall. The Winnebago Council provides the Course Directors and Instructors, as well as all equipment and facilities.
These events are all designed to encourage the group to work together as one unit
The C.O.P.E. challenge course has seen groups ranging from young Boy Scouts to large corporations' executives.
C.O.P.E. Testimonials
"Lots of people talk about working in groups. This is real group work!”
… Jessie, NIACC Student Senate
“This is the best thing I have ever taken kids to do.”
...Marti, High School Counselor
“COPE has proven to be the best hands-on team builder I have seen!”
...Mark, Alpha Phi Omega UNI
“The experience was the greatest our group could have asked for. It brings forth an environment unlike any other!”
...Kellie, University of Northern Iowa
For Additional Information or to Schedule an Event Contact:
Winnebago Council
2929 Airport Boulevard
Waterloo, Iowa 50703
Phone: 319-234-2867
Toll-Free: 877-754-4049
Fax: 319-234-0153
Questions – Email: [email protected]
