Event Dates: July 24-26, 2026 | Southern California
Operated by Kaizen Community | youngmensweekend.com | 323-977-8567
IMPORTANT: READ THIS DOCUMENT IN FULL BEFORE SIGNING.
This Safety Guidelines & Behavioral Agreement is between the participant's family and Kaizen Community, a 501(c)(3) California Nonprofit ("Kaizen Community"), the 501(c)(3) California Nonprofit that operates the Young Men's Weekend program. It must be read alongside the Participant Consent Agreement and the Website Privacy Policy. Together, these three documents form the complete agreement between the participant's family and Kaizen Community. In the event of any conflict between documents, the Participant Consent Agreement shall govern. Completion and signature of this document is required before check-in.
The safety and well-being of every participant is the top priority of Kaizen Community and its staff. These guidelines exist not to restrict the experience, but to ensure every young man thrives during the weekend.
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY — THIS SECTION AFFECTS YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS
The participant and parent/guardian acknowledge and accept all inherent risks associated with participation in the Kaizen Young Men's Weekend, operated by Kaizen Community, a 501(c)(3) California Nonprofit. These risks include, but are not limited to: physical injury from outdoor and athletic activities, ropes courses, and obstacle challenges; emotional discomfort arising from personal growth and rites-of-passage exercises; environmental hazards including terrain, wildlife, insects, sun exposure, and weather conditions; fire-related risks associated with supervised campfire activities; illness or injury resulting from outdoor living conditions; and the physical and mental demands of an immersive overnight program.
The participant and parent/guardian voluntarily accept these risks as a condition of participation. This acknowledgment applies to foreseeable and unforeseeable risks inherent in the program. Participation in every individual activity is voluntary, and modifications are available for activities a participant cannot safely perform.
WAIVER AND RELEASE — PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the undersigned parent/guardian (on behalf of the participant) and/or participant (if age 18 or older) hereby agrees to release, waive, discharge, and hold harmless Kaizen Community, a 501(c)(3) California Nonprofit, its officers, directors, employees, contractors, volunteers, mentors, and agents (collectively, "Released Parties") from any and all claims, demands, losses, liabilities, damages, or causes of action of any nature whatsoever, whether known or unknown, arising from or related to participation in the Kaizen Young Men's Weekend, including claims arising from the Released Parties' ordinary negligence.
This release does not apply to claims arising from gross negligence, reckless misconduct, or intentional wrongful acts by the Released Parties. This Release is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted under the laws of the State of California.
The parent/guardian agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Kaizen Community, a 501(c)(3) California Nonprofit and the Released Parties from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising out of or related to: (a) the participant's actions or conduct during the event; (b) any breach of this Agreement by the participant or parent/guardian; or (c) any misrepresentation made by the participant or parent/guardian in connection with registration or participation. This indemnification obligation survives the conclusion of the event.
By signing this Agreement, the parent/guardian (and participant, if 18+) certifies and warrants that:
• The participant is physically and mentally fit to participate in all scheduled activities of the Young Men's Weekend, including outdoor physical challenges, overnight camping, and emotionally intensive mentoring exercises.
• All known medical conditions, physical limitations, allergies, and current medications have been fully and accurately disclosed on the participant's registration and medical form.
• The participant is not currently under a medical restriction or physician's directive that would prohibit vigorous physical activity or overnight outdoor camping.
• If the participant's physical or mental health status changes between the date of this agreement and the event, the parent/guardian will notify Kaizen Community immediately at 323-977-8567.
Kaizen Community reserves the right to deny participation or remove a participant from specific activities if, in the reasonable judgment of trained staff, participation poses a safety risk to that individual or others.
Kaizen Community maintains robust supervision protocols throughout the event. Continuous supervision is maintained to the best of the staff's ability, consistent with the nature of an outdoor, multi-activity camping program. Parents and guardians should understand that supervision in an outdoor camping environment differs from indoor, one-on-one settings, and brief periods of reduced direct observation may occur during transitions, sleep hours, and certain independent activities.
• Adult supervision is maintained throughout all scheduled activities and during overnight hours, to the best of staff capability given the outdoor environment.
• At least one CPR-certified staff member is present at all times.
• First aid kits are stocked and accessible at multiple locations throughout the site.
• Appropriate staff-to-participant ratios are maintained across all activities.
• All facilitators and mentors are trained adults with backgrounds in youth development. Staff are not required to hold clinical licenses unless specifically indicated. Kaizen Community does not represent its staff as licensed clinicians unless explicitly stated.
• The designated parent contact during the event is Mr. Juarez: 323-977-8567.
In the event of a medical emergency:
• Staff will immediately assess the situation and call 911 if necessary.
• CPR and first aid will be administered by trained staff pending the arrival of emergency services.
• The participant's parent or guardian will be contacted immediately.
• If evacuation is required, the nearest appropriate medical facility will be used.
• A written incident report will be completed for any medical event. Incident reports are maintained by Kaizen Community for internal safety documentation and program improvement purposes only, and do not constitute an admission of liability.
• If any participant cannot be located, an immediate headcount and site-wide search will be conducted.
• If not located within 10 minutes, local law enforcement will be contacted.
• Parents/guardians will be notified simultaneously.
The event takes place in an outdoor, natural setting. Environmental hazards are inherent to this environment and may include: uneven or rocky terrain, wildlife and insects, sun and heat exposure, cold nighttime temperatures, and campfire proximity. Fire activities are always staff-supervised.
• Staff monitor weather forecasts throughout the event.
• In the event of dangerous conditions, all participants will be moved to designated shelter areas immediately.
• Evacuation plans are established for the venue in advance, and all staff are briefed prior to the event.
• Participants are expected to follow all staff instructions during any emergency or evacuation without hesitation.
The Young Men's Weekend includes physically challenging activities. The following protocols apply:
• Participants must wear appropriate footwear (closed-toe shoes/boots) for all physical activities.
• Proper warm-up and instruction precede every physical challenge.
• Participants with physical limitations must inform staff prior to activities; modifications will be offered where possible.
• No participant will be coerced into any activity. Opt-outs are honored without penalty or shame.
• All ropes-course and other elevated activities are supervised by trained staff with appropriate safety equipment in place.
• Hydration breaks are scheduled throughout the day; participants are encouraged to drink water frequently.
• Participants showing signs of physical distress (dizziness, nausea, pain, disorientation) must report to staff immediately and will be removed from the activity.
The Young Men's Weekend is a rites-of-passage and character development program. In addition to physical activities, participants will engage in emotionally intensive exercises that may include personal reflection, group sharing, mentoring discussions, ceremonial practices, and challenges designed to surface growth edges. These experiences may evoke a range of emotions, including vulnerability, discomfort, grief, pride, or intense personal insight.
The participant and parent/guardian acknowledge that emotional challenge is an intended and valuable part of the program, and they accept the associated risks, including temporary emotional distress, as inherent to the transformational nature of the experience.
• Participants may encounter topics related to manhood, identity, responsibility, family, failure, and purpose.
• Sharing within group settings is encouraged but never coerced.
• Experienced mentors monitor participants throughout all emotional exercises and provide support as needed.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
The Kaizen Young Men's Weekend is a personal development, mentorship, and character formation program operated by Kaizen Community, a 501(c)(3) California Nonprofit. It is NOT psychotherapy, counseling, psychological treatment, or mental health care of any kind. Participation does not constitute a therapeutic relationship between any Kaizen Community staff member or mentor and any participant. Staff members, facilitators, and mentors do not act in a clinical capacity, regardless of any professional credentials they may hold in other contexts.
This program is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. Parents whose sons are currently receiving mental health treatment are encouraged to consult with their provider before enrollment. If any participant requires clinical mental health intervention during the event, appropriate referrals will be made.
All participants are expected to uphold the T.O.R.C.H. values: Trust, Ownership, Responsibility, Confidence, and Humility — and to embrace Fun throughout.
• Treat every person — staff, mentors, and fellow participants — with dignity and respect.
• Follow instructions from staff and mentors promptly and without argument.
• Be honest and forthcoming regarding any physical or emotional discomfort.
• Participate in activities with full presence and effort.
• Uphold group confidentiality: what is shared in circles stays in circles.
• Physical violence, fighting, or threatening behavior of any kind
• Bullying, verbal abuse, taunting, or any form of harassment or discrimination
• Possession or use of alcohol, tobacco, vaping products, or illegal substances
• Possession of weapons, knives, or dangerous tools (beyond camp equipment provided by staff)
• Leaving the designated event premises without staff authorization
• Theft or intentional damage to equipment or property
• Unauthorized use of electronic devices during scheduled programming
Violations of these behavioral standards may result in immediate removal from the event at the parent's/guardian's expense, with no refund. Serious violations may be reported to appropriate authorities. Removal decisions are at the sole discretion of Kaizen Community.
Kaizen Community reserves the right to remove any participant from the event at any time for violations of this Agreement, for the safety of the participant or others, or for any conduct deemed disruptive or harmful to the program.
• In the event of a voluntary or involuntary early departure, the parent/guardian is responsible for arranging immediate pickup of the participant at their own expense.
• Upon notification of the need for pickup, the parent/guardian agrees to arrange transportation and arrive at the event venue within a reasonable time, not to exceed four (4) hours from the time of notification, or to designate an authorized adult to do so.
• If a participant must be removed at night or during hours when travel is difficult, Kaizen Community staff will provide appropriate supervision in a safe, designated area until the parent/guardian or authorized adult arrives. Staff are not required to transport the participant.
• If a parent/guardian cannot be reached within one (1) hour of a removal notification, Kaizen Community will contact the designated emergency contacts on file and, if necessary, contact local authorities.
• No refunds will be issued for early departure, regardless of the reason.
PERSONAL PROPERTY DISCLAIMER
Kaizen Community, a 501(c)(3) California Nonprofit is not responsible for the loss, theft, breakage, or damage to any personal property, including but not limited to cell phones, clothing, camping equipment, or valuables, whether brought voluntarily or required for participation. Participants should not bring items of significant monetary or sentimental value. All personal property is brought and stored at the participant's own risk.
• All medications (prescription and over-the-counter) must be declared on the medical form and delivered to staff at check-in in their original labeled containers.
• A written administration schedule must accompany all medications.
• Staff will store medications securely and assist participants in taking them at the correct times.
• Inhalers, EpiPens, and other emergency medications may be kept on the participant's person with prior written authorization.
• Participants must not share medications with any other person under any circumstances.
• All participants must be in their designated sleeping areas during lights-out hours as directed by staff.
• Participants are not permitted to enter other participants' tents or sleeping areas.
• Kaizen Community staff are stationed in designated adult areas near participant sleeping zones and conduct periodic overnight check-ins. Staff are not physically inside participant tents at any time; supervision is proximate, not intrusive.
• Any participant experiencing nighttime distress, fear, or illness should call out to or go to the nearest staff member immediately.
• Staff will check on any participant who appears distressed and will contact parents if warranted.
ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY & SEARCH AUTHORITY
The possession of firearms, ammunition, illegal drugs, alcohol, tobacco, vaping products, or any weapon is strictly prohibited. Participants found in possession of such items will be immediately removed from the event, and where required by law, the appropriate authorities will be contacted. No exceptions.
Kaizen Community staff reserves the right to inspect bags, luggage, and personal belongings at check-in or at any point during the event when there is reasonable suspicion of prohibited items. By signing this Agreement, the parent/guardian and participant consent to such inspections. Any prohibited items discovered will be confiscated, and the parent/guardian will be notified immediately.
• A written incident report will be completed by Kaizen Community for any event involving injury, illness, behavioral violation, missing participant, or emergency response.
• Incident reports are for internal safety documentation, program improvement, and insurance compliance purposes only. The existence of an incident report does not constitute an admission of fault, negligence, or liability by Kaizen Community or any of its staff.
• Parents/guardians will be notified of any incident involving their child in a timely manner, consistent with the urgency of the situation.
• Records are retained in compliance with applicable California law.
• Trained mentors monitor and respond to emotional distress throughout the event.
• Any participant who feels overwhelmed may speak to any staff member at any time, day or night.
• In cases of significant distress, parents will be contacted and, if appropriate, arrangements will be made for early departure per Section 10.
• No participant will be pressured or shamed for expressing vulnerability or requesting support.
Do NOT Bring:
• Alcohol, tobacco, vaping products
• Illegal substances
• Weapons of any kind
• Excessive cash or valuables
• Fireworks or flammables
• Pets
• Personal electronics
Bring (Required):
• Sleeping bag & pillow
• Tent
• Weather-appropriate clothing & closed-toe shoes
• Reusable water bottle
• Toiletries & towel
• Medications (labeled, with written instructions)
By signing below, both the participant and the parent/guardian confirm and agree to each of the following, on behalf of Kaizen Community, a 501(c)(3) California Nonprofit:
• I have read this entire Safety Guidelines & Behavioral Agreement and understand its contents.
• I have read the Participant Consent Agreement and the Website Privacy Policy, and I understand that all three documents constitute my complete agreement with Kaizen Community.
• I acknowledge and voluntarily accept all inherent risks associated with participation as described in Section 1.
• I agree to the Release of Liability and Waiver of Claims in Section 2 and the Indemnification obligation in Section 3.
• I certify that the participant is physically and mentally fit to participate as stated in Section 4.
• I understand this program is not psychotherapy or clinical mental health treatment as stated in Section 8.2.
• I understand and accept all behavioral expectations and the consequences of violations.
• I agree that Kaizen Community is not responsible for loss or damage to personal belongings as stated in Section 11.
• I consent to baggage inspection as described in Section 14.
• I agree to transportation and pickup responsibilities as described in Section 10.
• I authorize event staff to act in the participant's best interest in any emergency situation.
_______________________________
Participant Signature
_______________________________
Date
_______________________________
Printed Name of Participant
_______________________________
Parent / Legal Guardian Signature
_______________________________
Date
_______________________________
Printed Name of Parent / Guardian
Questions? Contact Mr. Juarez at 323-977-8567 or visit youngmensweekend.com
NOTE: This document does not constitute legal advice. Kaizen Community recommends review by a licensed California attorney prior to use.