Challenges for Accelerated Performance (CAP), run by the Youth Service Bureau, is a
14 – low and 6 – high element facility set in the mountains above Spring Mills. The combination of Low and High Ropes Courses enable participants to grow at both the team and individual levels, exploring risk, leadership, communication, problem-solving, and coaching. The Low Ropes Course focuses on collaboration. The challenges call upon every member of the team to participate, and they present unending opportunities for self-discovery and team growth.

The High Ropes Course emphasizes risk-taking, trust, and coaching. The challenges allow participants to expand their comfort zones—sometimes dramatically—and recognize fears that may block personal achievement. Each moment is rich with discoveries, whether a person is climbing, supporting "on belay," or finding an effective way to encourage a teammate.

CAP serves both youth and adult groups. Groups in 2007 included several YSB programs, community organizations, and corporate groups.

On the low course clients achieve balance and harmony on the Whale Watch, Swing over “pits of poisonous peanut butter” on the Nitro swing, and weave their way through the Spider’s Web. The high elements, designed to give a more individual experience, challenge participants to cross the postman and multi- line traverse and jump from the pamper plank 35 feet off the ground. The Vertical Play Pen challenges participants physically as they climb a ladder, work their way over the tire, and pull themselves up the knotted rope to the top of the trees. The Zip Line is a great way to end the day; jump from the wooden platform and ZIP 300 feet through the trees! For more information on the individual elements click here!

In 2007, 12 trained facilitators guided approximately 260 participants through the ropes course, and continue to develop an experiential approach to be used by YSB and area programs. We are excited for the 2008 season as we expand our services to include the State College Area School District,  several new community organizations and corporate groups.