Exploring What Matters Most: A Values Auction with DETLC Campers
Adapted from an article contributed by Alexa Eisworth, Youth Recovery Coach, Washington County
Healthy Acadia’s Youth Recovery Coaches recently connected with campers at Down East Teen Leadership Camp (DETLC) through an engaging activity designed to spark self-reflection and meaningful conversation.
Working in small groups, campers used Play-Doh to create models representing something they value most, such as family, friendship, health, trust, or education. Once the models were complete, the creations went up for auction using pretend money. Campers worked together to decide which values they felt were most important and where they wanted to spend their money.
The activity opened the door to thoughtful conversations about priorities, decision-making, and how our values can shape the choices we make every day.
After the auction, campers reflected on their bidding decisions and shared why they chose to invest in certain values over others. The exercise gave young people a chance to think about what matters most to them while strengthening communication, teamwork, and self-awareness in a supportive environment.
Activities like the values auction are one of the many ways Youth Recovery Coaches build connections with young people, encourage healthy decision-making and help youth develop the skills and confidence they need to navigate life’s challenges.