Youth Development
Orienteering USA supports youth in orienteering in a number of ways. From learning the mapping process with the Youth Mapping Program, connecting Youth and mentors through the Youth Development Program, and supporting Scouting and JROTC. Reach out to our contacts with any questions or ideas, we are always welcoming new Youth and adult leaders!
- Vice President for Youth Initiatives: Dylan Poe
- Youth Development Chair:
- Youth Mapping Chair: Barb Bryant
- Youth Education Chair: Vacant
- YDP Regional Contacts:
- Northeast: Wendy Johnecheck
- Southeast: Lily Addicott
- Midwest: Michelle Green greenmichelle@nulloutlook.com
- West: Jessica Colleran jessicacolleran@nullhotmail.com
- EYOC: Dylan Poe
- Silva Camp: Caroline Sandbo caroline.sandbo@nullorienteeringusa.org
- Youth Initiatives Administrator: Andrea Schneider andrea.schneider@nullorienteeringusa.org
Latest Youth Development News
- September O Forum: Radio Orienteering, the Thinking Harder Sport
- Support Orientación México!
- Nominations sought for 2026 Silva & Golden Service Awards
- 2026 Annual General Meeting
- OUSA Seeks National Communications Manager
Safesport Training
A primary obligation for any coach or adult in any youth sport is to keep participants safe from harm, both from sport-related injuries and the misuse of adult influence. A safe environment is one in which everyone knows the early warning signs of trouble. Our Junior Safety Handbook discusses misconduct and strategies to prevent misconduct from occurring. To help us prevent abuse and misconduct in orienteering, take the Safesport training and certification.
Orienteering Skills Program
A good, structured resource for organizations and youth focused groups is the Orienteering Skills Recognition Program from Orienteering USA. It walks participants progressively through different skills levels of orienteering, along with specific requirements and four patches for achievement.
Share your successes!
Have a plan or other resource you feel could be useful to an audience above? Drop it in the OUSA Skills inbox