Gap Program
Building Future Leaders
Camp Grady Spruce
Our Gap Program is rooted in Leadership Development. The Ripple Effect provides participants with hands-on work experience, resume building opportunities, and valuable connections. Participants in the program work towards earning a YMCA Leadership Certification through specialized leadership courses and interactions with inspiring guest speakers who share their personal journeys.
Each semester participants will collaborate on a Legacy Project - a meaningful contribution that leaves a lasting improvement or enhancement to Camp Grady Spruce, symbolizing their leadership journey and impact.
Currently our Fall 2025 Gap Program applications are open. Our Gap Program runs semesterly, both in Fall and Spring. Potential candidates will complete a video interview with Wedge, final candidates will do a virtual interview with a panel. Rolling offers will begin in June 2025.
Fall 2025 Gap Program will run August 25th-December 15th, with a break during Thanksgiving week.
Click to apply for our Fall 2025 Gap Program.
Camp Grady Spruce is located about 90 miles west of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex on 535 acres on the shores of beautiful Possum Kingdom Lake in North Central Texas. Possum Kingdom Lake is one of the clearest lakes in Texas and is known for its dramatic cliffs and beautiful, rolling hillsides.
Camp is home to an abundance of wildlife, and it is common to see white-tailed deer, bobcats, and roadrunners along the trails. There are a variety of activities to participate in such as sail boating, canoeing, swimming, horseback riding, hiking, archery, ziplining, and more!
Camp Grady Spruce operates year-round. We offer Summer Camp, Outdoor Education, Family Camping, and Conferences. We also work with numerous ISDs across the metroplex, bringing in students to experience Camp Grady Spruce on a class trip.
Camp Grady Spruce is part of the Dallas YMCA Association. Founded in 1885, the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas is a thriving $73 million dollar organization, operating 16 branches and 2 camps across the region. Each year, we serve over 200,000 individuals through our programs and community initiatives, with the help of a dedicated team of more than 2,500 employees and 8,000 volunteers.
We take pride in being a launchpad for emerging leaders-many of our full-time staff members began their careers in part-time roles. The Y is not just a place to work, it's a place to grow. During your time in the Ripple Effect Program, you'll gain insight into the Y's mission, impact, and culture. You may discover that the Y will become a meaningful part of your own professional journey.
Participants must be between 17-23 years of age.
Must have high school diploma or GED at start of program.
Participants must be able to attend the full duration of the program. Fall 2025 program runs August 25th-December 15th with a week break during Thanksgiving.
Have a strong desire to build leadership and career skills.
Enjoying working and being outside.
No, the Dallas YMCA will cover cost of training, certification, housing and some meals.
Participants do cover their own travel costs to and from camp.
The Ripple Effect is located at Camp Grady Spruce (CGS). CGS is located on Possum Kingdom Lake in Graford, Texas which is about two hours outside of Dallas. CGS is a year-round residential camp that offers a variety of activities such as boating, sailing, swimming, horseback riding, hiking and more.
Our Gap Program is designed for young adults ages 17-23 who are taking time to pause, reflect, and explore their future-whether that means stepping back from college, considering career paths, or seeking meaningful growth.
We encourage you to apply early.
Virtual Interviews will begin in June with rolling offers. On July 7th, all offer letters will be sent and our waitlist will begin.
Those who have completed a semester of our Gap Program can apply to become a Facilitator the following semester.
Participants can also apply to become a seasonal Summer staff for our Summer Camps.
Housing is provided on site. Housing includes a private bedroom with shared common areas. All utilities are also covered.
Yes, all participants are paid a daily rate of $95-$110, five days a week. Paychecks are bi-weekly.
Drug Policy. We are a zero tolerance staff and volunteer policy for drugs.
Alcohol. Must be 21 years of age or older. Must not consume during working hours and only in private quarters.
Pet Policy. We love our pets but please do not bring yours.
Vehicles. You are free to bring your own vehicle to camp. Must have valid insurance.
For application, interview process, job requirements, Dallas YMCA policies and benefits, and other employee related questions- Cori Carter, Talent Acquisition Director, Association HR Team ccarter@ymcadallas.org
For questions about Camp Grady Spruce- Cassandra Marlatt, Executive Director, Camp Grady Spruce cmarlatt@ymcadallas.org
Did You Know?
There are two Gap Programs connected to the YMCA movement.
The Ripple Effect – a leadership-focused program based at the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas.
Elevate – a wilderness-based program based at the YMCA of the Rockies.