This chapter describes the key principals that form the foundation for all of the methods employed in implementing the White Stag program. These are the basis against which potential methods, activities, and content must be evaluated to learn if they are true to the program's ideals. These principals do not change. This concept relates to the idea that every individual is in a state of continuous growth.
Leadership development is a never-ending process, continuing as long as the learner wishes.
In implementing the program, it was quickly recognized that leadership competencies cannot be acquired in a few training sessions or in a training course, but only as a result of a long-range developmental process . To learn specific competencies of leadership through intensive involvement and continuous challenging hurdles. Application Phase To apply the leadership competencies during the summer camp and in the home environment or sponsoring youth group, and to continuously evaluate the youths' application. It does not just occur formally at the conclusion of activities, but informally as well, by all involved, throughout the project or task. One who applies this attitude or technique will be continually aware of the objectives of his learnings and will attempt to measure his growth toward them.