C.O.P.E. Stands for Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience. 

COPE consists of a series of obstacles and challenges designed to foster problem solving skills and group interaction. Seven key goals are developed:

These goals are accomplished through obstacles and challenges to force the group to work together, communicate with each other, and trust the group decision as they attempt a solution to the obstacle. The COPE program generally consists of Initiative Games, Low Course, High Course, and Rappelling.

Going Through COPE

The C.O.P.E. Program is for scouts age 13 and older. The program is available to Scout Units, Explorer Posts, and other groups wishing to participate. All participants must have a Class 3 Medical form and a completed Hold Harmless Agreement. Required clothing includes long pants, and soft-soled shoes. Classes are offered each morning during Summer Camp from 9:00 am through 11:50 am. Project COPE provides an every participant the opportunity for success as an individual and member of their group.

Initiative Games

The first part of the program is Initiative Games. Participants and Instructors do some stretching and exercising, and then some initiative games. Generally initiative games are group problem solving activities. Generally these activities are used to get everyone acquainted with each other, establish communication and teamwork skills, and creative thinking. Many of these do not require spotting, but help prepare the group to spot each other in later activities. Willow in the wind, also sometimes known as the Trust Circle is used to gain trust in other group members and get more acquainted with spotting.

Spotting is integral to the program. Because many of the obstacles are elevated group members work together to spot each other to prevent falls and injury.

Low Course

The Low Course obstacles promote teamwork and problem solving. For each obstacle, the Instructor will provide a scenario and some general instructions. Participants work together to complete the obstacle. Some of the obstacles used on the low course are The Wild Woozy, Bermuda Triangle, Punctured Drum, Trust Fall, Wall, and many others.

 HIGH COURSE

Some of the  High Course at the Camp Blue Heron COPE course are 55-60 feet above the ground. At all times while on the course, a participant maintains two points of attachment, usually a belay line and a set of rabbit ears, to prevent accidents. Everyone within the High Course area must wear a safety helmet. Project C.O.P.E. is offered each week during our Traditional Summer Camp program. Scouts as well as Scout Leaders are encouraged to participate in this exciting program.

SAFETY IS MOST IMPORTANT FOR ALL ASPECTS OF COPE

BSA Climbing Merit Badge

 Camp Blue Heron will be offering afternoon Climbing Merit Badge sessions for those older scouts, 13 and above, looking for a challenging new experience. Reach new heights of adventure as you take on our awesome climbing wall and tower. Learn new rope and knot tying skills beyond the eight basics. Two-hour sessions will be conducted each day during the summer operations. A Council Hold Harmless Agreement and a Class 3 BSA Medical Form are required for participation. There will be a $15 activity fee for the program. Participants will receive a special certificate and patch for the week’s program.