Leadership Training

Captains are expected to serve as positive athlete role models in their community, and proactively recruit fellow individuals with diabetes to adopt positive lifestyles. Their initial training takes place during our classroom sessions at the University of California, San Diego. There, Captains have the opportunity to interface with leading diabetes specialists, coaches, and community leadership experts. Training continues throughout the Captains’ service tenure via in-person trainings, conference calls and webinars.

In addition to training received at U of IN, Captains have the opportunity reconvene for mid-season practicum sessions. These events take place “outside” of the classroom in experiential learning environments. Captains will apply their classroom knowledge in race events, at sea and in the backcountry wilderness.

Chapter Events

Insulindependence local chapter Dawn Phenom events are led by trained volunteers in cities throughout the country. Anyone is welcome to join an Insulindependence Captain for the activity he or she has chosen. These often include hiking, running, surfing, cycling, or yoga.

Regular events and familiar faces make it easy for people to stay inspired and fit, especially with help from their local diabetes community. Whether a participant has Type 1, Type 2, or is simply a supporter of someone living with diabetes, the Dawn Phenom is an ongoing opportunity to exercise, socialize, and have fun.

Youth Mentoring

Insulindependence fosters next generations of leadership in the diabetes community through our Junior Captain programs. Our volunteer leaders use skills learned at the University of Insulindependence to mentor Type 1 youth in a one-on-one setting, as they prepare for a triathlon, relay race or group expedition

The programs also offer opportunities for adolescents to interact with their peers in fun and challenging environments.

Ultimately, program participants develop lifelong relationships that serve as a foundation of support as they each continue along in their journey with diabetes.

Fundraising

Each IN Captain is asked to lead their own fundraising campaign with help from the Insulindependence staff. In addition to providing necessary program resources, fundraising gives Captains the opportunity to reach out to their communities, tell their stories, engage followers, and develop relationships that will continue to help our organization grow.

Funds raised by Captains are used cover the costs of training and organizational support throughout the 2012-13 season, and also to provide financial assistance to youths participating in our Junior Captains program.

Captains need not feel alone – The Insulindependence staff is available to help each individual meet his or her annual fundraising objectives. We provide professional fundraising support, including in-person workshops, regular conference calls, print materials, and more.