Program Overview
We all have a purpose in life. Do you know what yours is?
TruNorth is a 9-month leadership development and discipleship program designed for 18-22 year-old emerging adults who are eager to explore their passions, gifts, and calling-which shape their identity in Christ. During the 9-month program, students grow in a Christian community as they learn about themselves, others, and who God has uniquely created them to be. Talk about a year of growth to last a lifetime!
Year at a Glance
Semester 1
Establish yourself in faith and community
- Welcome & Orientation
- 9-day Canoe Trip
- Theology
- Self-Assessments
- Spiritual Disciplines
- Conflict Management
- Sharing your Faith
Semester 2
Equip yourself with life skills and see your faith in action
- Church History
- Worldview
- Career Assessments
- Relevant Issues
- Out of Camp Excursions
- End of Year Banquet
Throughout the Year
Explore next steps and your life’s calling
- Meet with a Mentor
- Book Studies
- Morning Devotions
- Community Activities
- Serving Campers
- Practical Living Skills
A Note to Parents
Decide Independently
To bring about the biggest impact, students need to decide independently to attend TruNorth. We ask that you encourage and support your student, but please don’t pressure them! The work they put in will impact the results they get out of the program.
Apply Independently
During the application process, please allow your student time and space to answer the questions independently. Hearing directly from your student allows us to best assess their potential fit in the program.
Live Independently
For many students, TruNorth is the first time they are living independently, away from the familiar comforts of home. We know this transition may be difficult or unknown and we understand you might want to hold on tight and not let go! As your student is coming into TruNorth, we encourage you to pray that God would use this season of their life and then allow space for God to work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a car?
You do not need a car! Transportation is provided for any required program activities. If you’re looking to go into town on a day off, you can carpool with another student or one of the RA’s will drive you!
Can I join part way through the year?
No, students can’t join mid-year. The first month of the program is critical to creating community and culture, and we wouldn’t want anyone to miss that! To get the full TruNorth experience, it would be best to apply for the following year.
Part of the program is serving in a work area. How is my work area determined and how often will I serve?
During the first 3 weeks of TruNorth, each student will be interviewed and placed in a service area at camp. During their time in the program, they will serve in and eventually lead this area.
Possible work areas include: Kitchen, Dish Crew, Canteen, Coffee Shop, Accommodations, Stables, Program, Nature Center
Is there a graduation ceremony?
Yes. In the Spring our students, families, and staff gather to celebrate in an End of Year Banquet.
Meet the Directors
Josh and Emily Tuckness, TruNorth Co-Directors, lead the students through an informative and impactful year. Josh holds a BA in Biblical Studies from Moody Bible Institute and has served at over 10 different camps in various roles. Emily participated in and supported a similar gap-year program for over three years. This duo brings expertise, care, wisdom, and fun to TruNorth.
