Experience

Here are the genuine thoughts of participants, parents, and supporters about the 2013 OAWV Program

USFS Representative

"The level of commitment and quality of trail construction has been a huge asset to the Superior National Forest and the BWCAW.  Many miles of portage trail have benefited from the OA, the work ethic and professionalism of the program has been a pleasure to be a part of."

-Carl Skustad

Assistant District Ranger

Wilderness/Recreation

Kawishiwi RD, Superior NF

Foreman Evaluations:

Connor Schuler

“He taught me a lot, is a great guy, and you are very lucky to have him on  your staff”

“He is a hard worker, a great person, an inspiration to become a staff member, a friend, and an amazing foreman.”

John Morgan Stanton

“John Morgan was influential in my enjoyment of my voyage. He taught me to be confident in my abilities. He believed in all of us and pushed us to do our best at everything.”

Jason Hickey

“He quite possibly saved 3 lives when a canoe flipped over during a thunderstorm. He wasted no time helping us get to shore safely. He is THE reason our voyage was a safe one.”

“Laid back but highly effective and outstanding foreman. Made my experience here amazing.”

Nate Newsome

“Nate has the OA in his very blood, he is the epitome of an arrowman.”

“He was like a friend and a brother that I could trust my life with. He inspires me to continue coming up here.”

Program Evaluations:

Hello Ryan,

This is Michael Brignola, a participant in the wilderness voyage program that started on June 18th. I want to let you know that my experience was fantastic and it was by far the best experience I had in scouting so far. I thought the program would be great before I came, but the voyage totally surpassed my expectations. The two foreman I had were exceptional, both Jeff Gray and Davin Ferren made sure the trip was a great experience for all of the participants. I have a very high level of respect for Jeff Gray as he rescued myself and two others when our canoe capsized on Basswood lake during a storm. I will definitely promote this program within my lodge and in my section, so more people can experience this great program.  I hope to come back to the North woods in the future. You should be proud of your staff and your program. It is an incredible experience.

Thanks,

Mike Brignola

Luc of Nentego Lodge: “It’s hard to know what to expect, but I have never had such a fulfilling camping experience, ever.”

Nate of Nentego Lodge: “It was a true camping experience. I just texted my mom that my little brother is coming here no matter what.”

Parent Emails

Just wanted to thank you for all you do! Jared said he had " the best time of his life" there with your staff. This was a life changing experience for him  - and he didn't let me do his laundry! Bonus! Thanks again-A Proud Parent

Hello Ryan,

I wanted to let you know that my son had a terrific time during OA Wilderness Voyage.  He worked hard and felt proud of his contributions, he enjoyed the crew he was with, and came home changed in so many positive ways. Thank you for making it such a great program.       

Thanks,            

-A proud parent

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Hi Ryan,

I wanted to thank you and the foreman of OACO0623. My son has only had positive comments to share about the crew, the 2 weeks, the work and voyage. He has come away with a greater sense of purpose, being a part of a team, experienced true Boy Scout camping, and an increase in self-esteem and confidence. Thank you for offering a wonderful summer adventure and economical experience with the Order of the Arrow.

Thanks again!

-A proud parent

Press Release

From the Maui News, Hawaii

Baker said, “the Northern Tier Canadian Odyssey trip allowed me to excel as a Scout and as a leader. The experience was like no other high adventure base I have encountered, being able to demonstrate all that Scouting has taught me to strengthen my drive to pursue more in Scouting.” 

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From Staff of the program: 

“In 2004, I was a participant with the OA Wilderness Voyage. As I embarked on a 2-week trip in an unfamiliar wilderness with an unfamiliar crew, I was anxious to see what I could learn and take away in that time. A major life change, a pinnacle scouting experience, and the greatest jumpstart to the rest of my life as a leader and camper. The following summers on staff only helped me be a part of that same transformation for many more youth in the OA.” –Ryan Bajan