Why Corporate Adventure?

It’s an amazing thing when a ‘corporate’ group gathers in an outdoor setting. People become a little shy, there is laughter… seeing Bob wearing track pants instead of a suit and tie is always good for a giggle…

At the Spencer Lodge Outdoor Centre, briefcases and Blackberries get left at the door as we laugh, problem-solve and ‘play’ our way through a day of progressively more challenging (and fun!) activities. Regardless of age, weight, gender or strength, a culture of “success” is generated through carefully structured activities.

The tailored progression of games and non-competitive activities get groups talking, thinking and working together in ways they never dreamed possible.

The YMCA facilitators are hand-picked for their understanding and experience in corporate culture. Throughout the day, each new experience is “framed” (set up) for the group by our staff. The group is then expertly guided and debriefed through the experience so that each activity flows logically and has meaning.

In traditional business settings, staff are often too busy with phone calls, meetings, emails and deadlines to find time to be themselves. Dan might be in Accounts Payable, but does anyone know that he is a runner, and also hopes to become a published author? And who knew that Grace, in her VP bubble, is a truly creative soul who longs to sky-dive but is terrified of heights?

The corporate “team” is expected to function flawlessly as a whole. But how to do that when the unique individuals who make up that team don’t have an opportunity to shine at the other things they are great at? People are expected to do their jobs, often at the expense of their creativity, humor or playfulness. At the YMCA’s Spencer Lodge, individuals have permission to be themselves; and often this is not the person who they are at work.

A day spent in our corporate adventure program allows the group culture to flourish and develop. “Success” is measured in terms of respect, trust and group cohesion, rather than dollars and cents. Groups emerge from the day with a renewed sense of identity, purpose and drive.

After discussing housekeeping items, a typical day starts with icebreakers or a high-energy game to de-stress the group. Setting the tone for the day is important as the atmosphere of “play” is established right off the bat. The group then moves into a series of activities that engage trust, mutual support, physical challenge (adaptable for all!) and creative communication. Initiatives, Low Ropes and hilarious communication activities make up the morning. After lunch, the afternoon is spent on our Executive High Ropes course as participants climb, balance and joust their way to a greater sense of well-being and connection within their group.

The day ends with a comprehensive debrief, led by the YMCA staff, allowing there to be integration and ‘transfer’ of the day’s experiences back into the office environment. Discussion and reflection maximize the impact and meaning of the experiences of the day.

Each person is engaged, each person is honored. What a great way to bring a team together!