Project Adventure developed the Full Value Contract; its principles are integral to our Adventure and camp programs.
The Full Value Contract is pivotal to our mission, typically is in place within the first two days of camp. Each group design the contract to cover all their needs including well defined elements of how they will operate as a group and as individuals. We make it clear to the entire group of the importance and value of trust within our camp setting. The Full Value Contract must be understood, agreed to and signed by all group members, campers and councilors.
There are 5 basic principles to a Full Value Contract:
1) Be present – This means to be present in the group on all levels, mentally, physically and emotionally. Honor the commitment of the others in your group by giving fully of yourself
2.) Pay attention – Fully listen to what the others have to say, strive to understand the ideas, ask questions that will assist you in truly understanding what the others are trying to communicate. Minimize distractions that take your focus away from the activity
3.) Speak your truth – Be yourself; share your thoughts, ideas and opinions with honesty and integrity. Everyone’s opinion is valid and important. What you have to say may be the critical piece of information or knowledge that the group needs.
4.) Be open to the results – Strive not to anticipate what is happening. Sometimes if you have distinct ideas about what is happening, you could limit your ability to truly understand other insights and ideas and may miss out on a valuable learning opportunity.
5.) Build a safe setting – Remember all we say and do does have impact on your group and its members. We create a level of safety for others by allowing them to feel at ease. Each member has a responsibility to point out any issues or concerns that may affect this safe environment.
A Full Value Contract fits the unique spirit and purpose of each group, it is a shared creation, developed in words that are understandable to all group members, that creates an emotionally and physically safe environment supported by all group members.
Full Value Contract asks the group:
To understand and/or create safe and respectful behavioral norms under which it will operate.
For a commitment to these norms by everyone in the group.
To accept a shared responsibility for the maintenance of these group norms.
