DETLC 2026: A Week of Connection, Growth, and Leadership
Healthy Acadia celebrated the 26th year of Down East Teen Leadership Camp (DETLC) this summer, bringing teens entering grades 7 through 9 together for a week of connection, learning, fun, and leadership development at Cobscook Institute in Trescott. DETLC gives young people opportunities to build communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills, strengthen emotional resilience, make healthy choices, and connect with their peers.
This year’s camp included inspiring community sessions with Isaac and Alexa from Maine Youth Recovery Coaching, along with national speakers Cara Filler and Ed Gerety. Campers also led and participated in workshops on meditation, dance, health education, and storytelling, along with four memorable excursions featuring hiking, pottery, fishing, and a medicinal herb walk.
DETLC 2026 by the numbers:
24 campers and 18 youth staff
25 workshop presenters and four community speakers
Four excursions
Five days of programming, plus staff training and preparation
100% of campers said they would like to return next year!
We’re already looking forward to welcoming everyone back for another summer of friendship, growth, and leadership.