Q: Who is Camp Beyond for? Can I bring my team?

 

A: If you work on events at a non-profit — in any capacity — this retreat was built for you. Executive Directors, Event Managers, Development Coordinators, the person who somehow became "the event person" — you belong here. Come alone or bring your whole team. Either way, you'll leave different than when you arrived. (Heads up: if you bring your team, you'll do the work together — which means you leave with alignment, not just ideas.)

 

Q: Where exactly is YMCA Camp Wanakita and how do I get there?

 

A: YMCA Camp Wanakita is nestled on the shores of Koshlong Lake in Haliburton, Ontario — about 2.5 hours north of Toronto. Detailed directions and travel info will be sent to you once you register. Most people drive. Carpooling with other campers is highly encouraged — the community building starts before you even arrive.

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Q: What are the accommodations like?

 

A: You're at camp — so think cozy cabins, not hotel rooms. And yes, there is indoor plumbing. Accommodations are comfortable, clean, and shared. This is part of the experience. There's something about stepping away from your regular environment, being in nature, and sharing space with people who get it that accelerates the connection and the work.

If you're coming with a teammate or a fellow camper you already know, just let us know — we will absolutely bunk you together. We also accommodate food allergies and dietary needs, so make sure to flag those when you register. Full details will be confirmed once your spot is secured.

 

Q: What other activities are included?

 

A: Camp Beyond isn't just working sessions — it's camp. Evenings and downtime are designed to help you unplug, connect, and have fun. Think campfire nights, hiking, arts& crafts, lawn games, archery, and so much more. And we have some surprises in store too — the kind you'll be talking about long after you leave.

All activities are included in your registration. No extra costs, no sign-up fees — just show up and enjoy it. This is part of what makes Camp Beyond different. You're not going back to a hotel room at the end of the day. You're gathering around the fire with other Good Humans who are becoming your people. That's where some of the best conversations — and the best ideas — happen.

 

Q: What's included in registration — and what isn't?

 

A: Your registration covers everything you need to show up and do the work: all retreat programming and working sessions, expert guidance from your Camp Counsellors, unique activities and evening events, accommodations for two nights, and all meals, snacks, and beverages — yes, including the adult ones.

 

What's not included: your travel to and from Camp Wanakita, and any personal incidentals. That's it.

 

Q: How does payment work?

 

A: Payment is due in full to confirm your spot. Once you're in, you're in — and we'll send you everything you need to prepare for camp.

 

Questions? Reach out at buildthefire@startingbeyond.com.

 

Q: What if I need to cancel?

 

A: Life happens. Full cancellation and transfer policy details are included in your registration confirmation. If something comes up, reach out to us directly at buildthefire@startingbeyond.com — we'll work with you.

 

Q: I'm the only events person at my org — is this still worth it?

 

A: Especially for you. When you're the only one, the isolation is real — and so is the pressure. There's no one to debrief with, no one who understands why you're losing sleep over registration numbers, no one to reality-check your ideas. Camp Beyond gives you that — a room full of people who get exactly what your days look like. You'll leave with completed work and a support system that sticks around long after camp ends.

 

Q: How is this different from other non-profit conferences?

 

A: Most conferences give you a packed schedule of sessions, some good ideas, and a notebook full of notes you never look at again. Camp Beyond is built around closing that gap — between knowing and doing. You're not here to sit and listen. You're here to work on your actual events, with expert guidance, in real time. You leave with completed work ready to implement — not a to-do list and good intentions. The venue isn't a hotel ballroom. The relationships aren't just LinkedIn connections. And the support doesn't end when you drive home.

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Q: What time does the retreat kick off on Monday?

 

A: We'll be ready to welcome campers starting at 1pm — a light snack will be available when you arrive. Programming kicks off at 3pm to give those flying in time to get there without rushing. Plan to arrive between 1 and 3 so you're settled and ready to go.

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Q: If I'm flying in, where do I fly to?

 

A: Fly into Toronto Pearson International Airport. From there, Camp Wanakita is approximately 2.5 hours north.

 

Q: How do I get from the airport — and what if I don't drive?

 

A: We've got you. Once we know who's coming and when, we'll help coordinate transportation. In the past we've offered a bus from Toronto Pearson for a nominal fee per person — and we can also connect you with fellow campers to carpool. More details will be shared closer to the retreat date.

 

Q: When does the retreat wrap up?

 

A: We'll close out around noon on Wednesday to accommodate early afternoon flights. And just like arrival, once we know who's heading where, we can look at organizing a ride back to the airport. No one gets left at camp — unless you really don't want to leave.

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