Ontario Counsellors Conference 40
Be an Example - Philippians 3:17
No Gap Leadership – Sam Bysma
This workshop explores the common challenges churches and clubs face when a head counsellor steps down without an immediate successor in place. Together, we’ll identify the risks of leadership gaps and discuss practical strategies for developing a strong succession plan. Learn how to prepare future leaders, ensure continuity, and keep your ministry or club thriving through times of transition.
Sam has faithfully served as a Cadet Counsellor for 38 years, bringing a wealth of experience, wisdom, and leadership to the ministry. He currently serves as Head Counsellor and also contributes to the broader Cadet movement as Secretary of the Calvinist Cadet Corps Executive Committee.
Leading and Motivating Volunteers – Pete Wierenga
This session offers practical tips for improving volunteer recruitment and retention, helping you build a committed and effective team. Drawing on real-world insights and lessons learned from running volunteer-based organizations, we’ll explore what motivates volunteers, how to keep them engaged, and ways to create a healthy, sustainable volunteer culture.
Pete is the General Manager of Niagara Christian Gleaners, an organization that transforms surplus produce into nutritious food for those in need around the world. Under Pete’s leadership, the Gleaners collect over 3 million pounds of surplus produce annually from local grower partners, providing daily servings of food to more than 25,000 people globally. This vital work is made possible through the efforts of hundreds of dedicated volunteers each week. Pete brings valuable insight into volunteer engagement, logistics, and the impact of faith-based service.
Communication: Know your Audience – Steve Bootsma
How do we best communicate with our church? What we often call ‘our Cadet club’ is actually the church’s club, we just have the privilege of serving in it. How do we best communicate with our church and with the parents of the cadets? Hint: it’s not the same as how we did in the past, and it’s not the same for everyone.
Steve was a Cadet while growing up in Newmarket, ON, where he developed a love for the program. He still has his uniform, although it hasn’t fit for a long time. Steve has been a counselor for the past 25 years, still feeling the passion of helping boys grow more Christlike. Since February 2016 he has also been the Executive Director of the Calvinist Cadet Corps, working in the head office in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Capturing the Mission: Photography for Youth Ministry Impact - Trevor Burnett
Does your Cadet club have a solid promotions plan in place? Does it have one at all? This workshop’s intent is to illustrate the exciting power of photography to help enhance the promoting of your club and ultimately bring others in to join in on its mission. Jesus was the master storyteller. You probably have a few great storytellers in your club too. Pictures can help tell stories and often convey a full story in just one image. Participants will understand the power that purposeful photos can have in their club promotion efforts while learning the ethical and legal responsibilities that come with it. They will gain practical tips for taking, selecting, and using compelling photos. We will discuss ways we can go about implementing a strong plan to visually tell the exciting stories of what’s happening in our clubs.
Trevor has been the Junior Designer/Video Production guy at the Corps office since 2020. He has a passion for visual storytelling capturing and gathering various media to produce video and club resources to assist our ministry. He has learned a lot about the impact our ministry has on boys and enjoys using his talents to lend to the visual design aspects. Trevor has grown as a still photographer over the last few years as he entered his role with more experience in videography. He lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife Ana, daughter Zoe (age 10), and son Romeo (age 2). They attend Crossroads Bible Church. He fills in occasionally at The Dock Ministries Cadet Club to work the boys and counsellors and, with God’s guidance, become more involved with counselling boys as his son Romeo grows a bit more.
Leading Men – Rick Verkerk
A thriving Cadet program doesn’t happen by accident—it requires intentional, Christ-centered leadership. In this workshop, we’ll explore how to build and sustain a leadership team that supports a strong, healthy Cadet club. Learn practical strategies for identifying leaders, developing their gifts, and creating a culture of shared responsibility and spiritual growth that can carry your program into the future.
Rick brings a wealth of experience in Christian leadership, having served as the former Men’s Ministry Leader with Promise Keepers Canada. Most recently, he served as the Lead Chaplain at the 2025 All Ontario Cadet Conference. Rick is passionate about mentoring men, fostering strong leadership in ministry settings, and equipping teams to serve effectively and faithfully.
Why Camporee Matters – Gary vanZandwijk
What exactly is a Camporee, and how does it fit into the larger ministry of Cadets? In this session, we’ll explore the purpose and value of Camporees, how they align with the spiritual and relational goals of Cadeting, and how your club can make the most of them. You'll gain practical strategies for preparing your boys, encouraging participation, and using Camporees as a powerful tool for discipleship and growth.
Gary has been an active counsellor in the Calvinist Cadet corps for over 30 years and during this time has been active at many levels of Cadets including helping to plan multiple All Ontario and International Camporees. Come explore why Camporees are an Important part of the ministry and why it is a tool you can and should use with your boys.
Junior Cadets: How it Works – Sam Bysma
What is Junior Cadets, and why is it such a valuable part of the overall Cadet ministry? This session will introduce you to the Junior Cadet program—designed specifically for boys in the early years of elementary school. We’ll explore the purpose and structure of Junior Cadets, the role of badges and crafts, and how these hands-on, age-appropriate activities help boys grow in faith, skills, and community. Discover the benefits of starting young and how a strong Junior Cadet program can strengthen your entire club.
Sam has been a dedicated Cadet Counsellor for 38 years. He currently serves as Head Counsellor and is the Secretary on the Executive Committee of the Calvinist Cadet Corps. With decades of experience mentoring boys and supporting fellow counsellors, Sam brings valuable insight into the foundational role Junior Cadets plays in a vibrant, long-lasting Cadet ministry
Understanding Cadets' Learning and Mental Health Needs - Ben Nywening
Learning outcomes for workshop participants:
- gain an understanding of how different types of children learn best (i.e. students with ADHD, learning disabilities, cognitive challenges, or Anxiety, etc.)
- develop strategies for reaching out to children who may have difficulty fitting in at Cadets
- understand how to create Cadet programs that embrace and appreciate different types of learners
- recognize the need to create strong mentorship relationships with Cadets based on mutual trust, respect and vulnerability
Rock Climbing Badge – Rob Goodfellow
In this hands-on workshop, participants will gain the knowledge and confidence needed to effectively teach the Climbing Badge. We’ll cover the required equipment, essential knots, and key safety practices in depth. You’ll also see demonstrations and learn how to use simple, practical models to help boys understand and practice climbing techniques safely. Whether you're experienced or just getting started, this session will equip you to teach this badge with clarity and confidence.
A lifelong lover of the outdoors, Rob first discovered a passion for nature through his church’s Boy Scouts troop. He began outdoor climbing in his early 20s, with adventures taking him through the Gatineau Hills, Bon Echo, the Adirondacks, and Alberta. He believes that building a strong relationship with God’s creation is vital for spiritual and physical well-being and brings that passion into every teaching moment.
Cadet Counsellor Certification – Richard Suk
In this workshop we will be working with new counsellors to gain a better understand of the Cadet program and what it means to be a Cadet Counsellor. You will work through the Counsellor Certification Course and become a certified counsellor following this course.
This workshop is designed for new counsellors seeking to deepen their understanding of the Cadet program and what it truly means to serve as a Cadet Counsellor. Participants will work through the comprehensive Counsellor Certification Course, gaining practical skills and insights essential for effectively leading a cadre. Upon completion, attendees will become certified counsellors, fully equipped to guide and mentor boys in their cadre.
Richard Suk has been a dedicated Cadet Counsellor for many years and is an active member of the DCE (Developer of Counsellor Education). Passionate about leadership development, Richard enjoys leading workshops and mentoring new counsellors, sharing his extensive knowledge and love for the Cadet ministry.
How to be a Junior Counsellor: Expectations – Rick Verkerk
Rick brings a wealth of experience in Christian leadership, having served as the former Men’s Ministry Leader with Promise Keepers Canada. Most recently, he served as the Lead Chaplain at the 2025 All Ontario Cadet Conference. Rick is passionate about mentoring men, fostering strong leadership in ministry settings, and equipping teams to serve effectively and faithfully.
Praying with your Cadets – Rev. Joel Dykstra
The goal of the worship will be to think through how to best pray with and for our Cadets. This will include thinking through praying at the beginning or end of the lessons, as well as praying with individual Cadets or with a couple of Cadets for specific reasons.
Rev. Joel Dykstra has been the pastor of the Wellandport URC for the past 27 years. Joel has been married to his wife for 30 years and together they have five children and ten grandchildren. Most notably, Joel is the brother of Wolf Brown.
Introduction to Blacksmithing – Spencer Zondag
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the basics of forging as we create small fire pokers using a propane forge. Gain practical experience with heating, shaping, and finishing metal in a safe and guided environment. Whether you’re new to metalworking or looking to develop your skills, this session will provide a unique and rewarding creative experience.
Spencer grew up attending Cadets at Mountainview CRC from grades 4 to 8, followed by two years as a Junior Counsellor. Now entering his third year as a Cadet Counsellor, he brings a passion for mentoring boys and sharing his skills. Originally from Grimsby, Spencer lives in Vineland with his wife Olivia, and they attend Jordan HRC. With a lifelong interest in metalworking, Spencer enjoys working on various projects at home and is excited to introduce others to the craft.
One Night Crafts – Mike Huizinga
In this workshop the leader will present and display a variety of crafts. The attendee will be able to experience a variety of mediums and crafts in which to engage boys. Some of the crafts presented will have the option to be extended to cover more than one night. Come learn how to create crafts that can be accomplished when short of time and for those busy weeks. Workshop participants will be able to share and discuss their own thoughts and ideas in regard to preparing and teaching one night crafts with cadets. Everyone will be able to go home with a finished craft and with lots of ideas to bring back to your cadres/clubs.
Mike has been a counsellor within the Niagara Council for some 20+ years. With his family he loves camping, hiking, biking, canoeing, exploring and doing different types of crafts together. He has been blessed to live in the country on a farm where we can smell the fresh, or not so fresh air. He also works in residential construction. He has a love for the cadet program and the opportunity it allows him to work alongside other men and build relationships between both men and the boys.
Three-Legged Live Edge Stool – Ray Sheepstra
Ray Scheepstra’s workshop is a haven for woodworking enthusiasts eager to craft beautifully rustic three-legged black walnut live edge stools using the time-honored mortise and tenon joinery technique. With his deep expertise and hands-on approach, Ray guides participants through every step, from selecting the perfect slab of live-edge wood to carefully shaping and fitting the legs into precisely cut mortises. The result is a sturdy yet elegant piece that showcases the natural character of the wood, blending traditional craftsmanship with organic aesthetics. Whether attendees are seasoned woodworkers or beginners, the workshop fosters a supportive and creative environment where each stool becomes a unique expression of skill and artistry.
Ray is a passionate woodworker known for his expertise in traditional joinery and his love of working with natural, live-edge materials. He enjoys sharing his craft and helping others discover the joy of woodworking through hands-on, engaging workshops.
Cadet-a-pult – Mike Vandermeer
This project uses basic knots and lashing to secure dowels with cord, creating an object that is a lot of fun. It puts the popular knot board knowledge to use. This helps reinforce the skill needed at camporees to create shelters and fun camp projects. Mike Vander Meer (a counsellor of over 50 years) had the opportunity to bring this craft to Kenya several years ago. The counsellors there enjoyed putting the project to use shooting kernels of corn around the room.
54 years ago, Mike began as cadet counsellor in Niagara Falls CRC and later moving to his broiler farm in Wellandport continued as counsellor in Wellandport CRC and later URC. Through the years in Niagara council there have been various roles such as Head Counsellor, Council president, Congressman and D.C.E team leader. He was given the opportunity to serve two terms as President of the Calvinist Cadet Corp. Through the years there have been many Snow Derby’s, Cadet-a-rees, Conventions, Conferences, Congress meetings as well as All Ontario and International Camporees. It has been a journey filled with wonderful experiences and the opportunity to connect with many other dedicated and hard-working counsellors with the same passion for the ministry. It has been and continues to be a blessing to be part of the Calvinist Cadet Corps.
Ultra-Light Backcountry Cook Stove – Lloyd Wierenga
Using readily available materials and simple tools, this hands-on workshop will guide you through assembling an ultra-light backcountry cook stove perfect for camping and outdoor adventures. Learn how to create a compact, efficient stove that’s easy to carry and use in the wilderness, enhancing your outdoor cooking experience without the bulk.
With 35 years of experience as a Cadet Counsellor, Lloyd has served in numerous roles at board and council levels. A passionate outdoors enthusiast, he enjoys camping and backcountry canoe trips, bringing practical knowledge and a love for nature to every session.
Model Rockets from Scratch – Jeffrey Poulsen
At this workshop, Jeff will guide you through the fundamentals of model rocket construction—from raw materials to successful launch—emphasizing creativity, safety, and teamwork. You will build your own flyable model using low cost, easily obtainable materials.
Jeff Poulsen is a rocket enthusiast with over 10 years of hands-on experience designing, building, and launching model rockets. A longtime supporter of youth STEM education, Jeff has led dozens of workshops and events aimed at inspiring the next generation of engineers and scientists. His enthusiasm, design experience, and understanding of aerodynamics make him a go-to mentor for Cadets eager to learn rocketry from the ground up.
Scroll Saw Art – Ryan Suk
Decorative Christmas Star – Walter Van Essen
Working with larger groups requires a project that keeps the boy’s attention, is completed in an evening or two, is economical, has teachable moments, and opens up conversations with the boys. This project is about the Christmas Star, which can be a spring board to talk about the birth of Jesus and the visit from the wiseman. The star is simple in design but using paint, stain, or different coloured woods, can make a nice keepsake and decoration in the boy’s home. This is a hands-on project and you will likely get dusty with sawdust.
Walter has been a woodworker, furniture maker for 45 years. He is retired but still works part-time for his former employer. He and his wife, Marsha have four children, one granddaughter and four grandsons. Walter is an active member of the Mitchell Free Reformed Church Cadets, currently serving as their treasurer and secretary, as well as assisting with workshop projects. As part of the Huron and Erie council, he has led the souvenir craft at the AOC as well as the International Camporee in Dunnville. Seeing boys develop some hands-on skills, while making connections with the boys, makes the planning and work worthwhile.
Plumbing Soldering Craft – Jason DeGraaf
This workshop provides an overview of cutting copper and the fundamentals of soldering for various craft projects. Participants will watch live demonstrations on soldering techniques and learn tips for working safely and effectively with copper. Whether you’re new to metal crafts or looking to refine your skills, this session offers practical knowledge you can apply right away.
A member of Grimsby CRC Church, Jason has been a commercial plumber since 2001. Bringing years of hands-on experience working with metal and piping, he is excited to share his expertise in copper cutting and soldering with the Cadet community.