Our year-round team brings energy, creativity, and a love of the outdoors to everything they do at the KOC. Our staff from across Canada and around the world come together to lead adventures, programs, and activities that challenge, inspire, and engage campers of all ages. The KOC team create a welcoming and fun environment where every camper and family can explore, learn, and make lasting memories.
Elisha Weiss
Program Supervisor
Elisha has been part of the KOC for nearly a decade, and her passion for outdoor education is as vibrant as ever. What began as a childhood dream, sparked by a Grade 6 trip to an outdoor centre, has grown into a lifelong mission to connect people with nature and create meaningful, healing experiences.
With a background working in Ontario Parks and Forest Recreation, Elisha’s early work focused on environmental education. But it was her discovery of the KOC in the early 2000s that opened a new path, one that combined her love of the outdoors with therapeutic recreation. “It was a new window for me,” she says. “The groups we work with are so diverse and appreciative, it’s incredibly rewarding, and it’s nice to see that they enjoy it as much as I do!”
Now in her role as Program Supervisor, Elisha is focused on revitalizing programming, mentoring staff, and ensuring that every visitor, whether a child, parent, or staff member, feels the magic of the natural world. She’s passionate about creating new activities each year, keeping the experience fresh and engaging for returning groups and staff alike.
One of her most cherished memories is working with the Girls Circle program, a group of young women navigating life’s challenges. “The connections we made were powerful,” she says. “I still remember many of them.”
For Elisha, the mission is simple: help people disconnect from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with themselves, each other, and the outdoors. “If the staff are happy, the clients are happy,” she says.
With her deep roots at the KOC, creative spirit, and unwavering belief in the power of nature, Elisha continues to shape the centre into a place of transformation, connection, and joy.
Emmi Timmermans
Program Supervisor
Emmi returns to the KOC in 2026 for her third year, stepping into the role of Autism Program Supervisor—a position that perfectly blends her
personal journey, academic background, and deep passion for inclusive recreation. With a degree in Therapeutic Recreation, and currently pursuing her
Masters degree in Recreation and Leisure studies, Emmi is dedicated to creating programs where every child and family feels valued, supported, and celebrated.
Her inspiration is personal: Emmi’s younger sister has developmental disabilities, and growing up, Emmi witnessed the life-changing impact inclusive programming can have. “I’ve seen firsthand how much programs can transform someone’s life. I’ve always wanted to create that same kind of difference and magic for others,” she says.
At KOC, Emmi is focused on developing her leadership skills, supporting family camps, and connecting with new community groups. She believes in the therapeutic power of outdoor experiences and sees every interaction—whether on a ropes course, at the campfire, or during a shared laugh—as an opportunity to nurture physical, emotional, and social well-being.
For Em, therapeutic recreation is more than just fun—it’s a tool for growth, healing, and empowerment. Through her lived experience, professional training, and genuine heart, she helps shape a camp culture that is not only inclusive but truly transformative for all.
Outdoor Coordinators and Facilitators
The KOC prides itself on the depth and talent of our staff. Our reputation, program diversity, and philosophy have enabled us to attract a group of highly-skilled and caring front-line outdoor educators and behind-the-scenes program support staff. The KOC is dedicated to creating an inspiring and positive experience for families and campers by providing consistent support and thorough training throughout the season.
Kitchen and Maintenance Team
The kitchen team prepares dishes for the whole family. Catering to unique diets and picky eaters is their specialty!
The maintenance team (Shane Sisson and Mike Anderson) keep our buildings, cabins, and landscaping in tiptop shape for families and staff.
Join our Team!
The KOC facilitates a range of outdoor education, therapeutic recreation and experiential adventure programs designed to meet the specific needs of its diverse client population.
Visiting groups include: children’s mental health centres, community living agencies, elementary and secondary schools, colleges, universities, and various other organizations serving youth, and adults and individuals with complex needs. The KOC also offers a range of programming for children with autism, including Family Camps throughout the spring and summer months.
If you share our passion for helping children, youth and families, we invite you to view our available positions.
