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Project Survival was founded in 2001 by Hamilton Management & Consulting
to provide an opportunity for youth-at-risk with learning disabilities and/or attention disorders to develop self-awareness
through participation in outdoor based activities that test one's abilities and attitudes.
In 2003, Project Survival partnered with the Learning Disabilities Association of Mississauga
to achieve our shared vision of success for vulnerable youth.
Project Survival's Wilderness Challenge Program (WCP) was developed on the
premise that youth with little self-assurance will make different social choices than youth who believe in themselves. By
providing an arena where youth are encouraged to test their personal limits in an emotionally safe environment, Project Survival
assists in empowering youth to realize their potential and therefore heightening their sense of self.
Adolescents with learning disabilities often do not feel a part of a peer
group and may be isolated. This may cause them to miss out on the opportunity to develop a sense of self-identity that differs
from their family. This may also cause them to remain dependent on the parents for support and authority.
Despite their social natures and pro-social intent, 50 to 80 percent of
children with ADHD and LD experience significant peer problems and social failure. They tend to be lonelier, have fewer friends
and participate in fewer extracurricular and community activities than their non-disabled peers.(1) Children with ADHD and
LD may exhibit poor emotional regulation, resulting in outbursts, temper tantrums, overreaction, impatience and limited self
awareness.(2) The lack of emotional control increases the risk of behaviour problems, anxiety and depression. (3).
Project Survival addresses these unfortunate realities by providing each
participant with a positive group-based experience. Emphasis is placed on providing adventurous and exciting activities
that encourage teamwork, situational problem solving, calculated risk-taking, relationship building, extension of trust and
responsibility.
Most importantly, Project Survival adheres to the challenge-by-choice
philosophy. This concept allows participants to opt out of an activity that they feel is outside of their comfort
zone. For example, opting out of the low ropes course due to an intense fear of falling. Instead, by allowing the participant
to set a personal goal such as completing the course to a certain point, the person is awarded success at a personal level.
Should the person not feel comfortable with a level of participation in the activity, it is imperative that we involve them
in another manner (such as a spotter, or photographing other participants) so that they feel they have contributed and participated.
Therefore the ability to choose and say no is in most cases a sign of strength, not weakness.
(1) Landau, S. & Moore L. (1991) Social Skills Deficits in Children with Attention Deficit Disorder.
School Psychology Review.
(2) Murphy, K. (1994) Interpersonal and social problems in adults with ADD.
(3) Coleman, D. (1995) Emotional Intelligence. New York: Bantam Books.
5 Desired Learning Outcomes
Leadership. Conscientiousness,
decision making, teamwork, organizational ability, time management, values, and goals
Adventurousness. Taking
on challenges, flexibility, physical fitness and environmental awareness
Self-concept. Physical
ability, peer relations, general self, physical appearance, confidence, self-efficacy, self-control, family and self
understanding
Interpersonal skills.
Cooperation, communication, social competence, behavior and relating skills
Personality. Femininity,
masculinity, achievement motivation, emotional stability, control of aggression, assertiveness, locus of control and maturity
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