SUDBURY, ON – The Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB), in partnership with the Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS), is proud to announce the successful continuation of BURST (Building, Understanding, Resilience, Strength, Together) Summer Camp. Designed to empower local youth, the community-focused program equips students with critical personal and leadership skills to support a smooth transition into the upcoming academic year.

BURST combines outdoor physical activities, hands-on team challenges, and cultural learning experiences. Through strong community collaboration, the camp helps students navigate personal challenges, foster creativity, and build resilience before returning to the classroom.

“BURST is more than just summer fun, it’s a transformative experience,” said Child and Youth Care Work, Michelle Gideon. “Every activity is thoughtfully crafted to empower our students, equipping them to navigate personal challenges and hit the ground running for the upcoming academic year.”

“BURST Summer Camp is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when schools, community organizations, and local partners come together with a shared commitment to supporting young people,” said Morris Hucal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Chief Education Officer (CEdO) for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. “Through experiences that build resilience, leadership, confidence, and meaningful connections, students are gaining skills that will serve them well both in school and in life. We are grateful to the Greater Sudbury Police Service and all of our community partners for helping create opportunities that empower our students to succeed.”

Program Highlights & Curriculum

The multi-week program serves distinct student groups each week, tailoring activities to support key educational transitions:

• Indigenous Cultural Teachings: Visiting Elders and guest speakers lead students through traditional Indigenous teachings. As part of this cultural immersion, all participating students craft their own traditional medicine bags.
• Skill-Building & Outdoor Education: Campers participate in visits to the ARC Climbing Gym and engage in practical workshops, including paracord bracelet making, where students learn practical functions and uses of paracord in outdoor and survival settings.
• Team-Building Challenges: Campers develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills through interactive group activities, including the Egg Tower Challenge, the Box Challenge, ping-pong ball activities, hula hoop challenges, and group jump rope exercises.

The ongoing success of the BURST program is made possible through the continued partnership and dedication of educators, members of the Greater Sudbury Police Service, and a network of valued community partners, including the Elizabeth Fry Society, Restorative Justice Workers, MHAN nurses, and Northern Youth Services, who work directly with campers to inspire, support, and uplift local youth. The program is also supported by Jumpstart, whose sponsorship helps make these meaningful experiences possible for participants.

For more information about BURST or upcoming educational initiatives, please visit the Sudbury Catholic District School Board website at www.sudburycatholicschools.ca.

About Sudbury Catholic District School Board

The Sudbury Catholic District School Board provides inclusive, faith-based educational programming across the Greater Sudbury region, emphasizing academic excellence, community partnership, and student well-being.

About Greater Sudbury Police Service

The Greater Sudbury Police Service is committed to community safety and well-being through proactive partnerships, youth engagement, and collaborative community programs across the City of Greater Sudbury.

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