What a day!

On Monday, June 14th we hosted 3 school groups with a combined student population of over 500 children and teens! This was be far our greatest number of guests at Camp on a single day in anyone's memory.

With over 35 staff leading activities throughout Camp's program areas - everyone appeared to be and expressed having a great day! At one point an estimated 200 people were rowboating, canoeing, swimming, fishing, and sunbathing at the waterfront - our lifeguards were kept busy but they were more than equal to the challenge. The basketball courts, target shooting ranges, and sports fields saw non-stop action. The arts & crafts room had a steady stream of candle makers. The hiking and mountain bike trails saw constant traffic as well.

On days like these, it's easy to focus on the numbers of people and what they were busy doing. However, a deeper look reveals so much more! I saw boys and girls overcoming fears, exploring new activities & environment, gaining skills and deepening relationships . I heard snippets of conversation as our staff talked about the turtles, lily pads and other aquatic life with students who seldom venture beyond the environs of Bronx NY. I watched confidence bloom as teenagers who never paddled a canoe previously, became adept and criss crossed the lake without tipping. I witnessed expressions of pure joy blossom on faces that had shown apprehension and boredom upon arrival.

These schools could have just as easily taken their students to the amusement park for their end of year trips. Instead they choose to bring them to Camp for an experience that would enhance and transform their lives. Even one day's exposure to the skills and growth opportunities that we foster can and does make a difference in the lives of children, teens and adults. Clearly this difference would be greater and more life enhancing with a longer experience. These short term visits to camp (for these groups ranging from 1 day to 6 days) give everyone a sample.

Who knows when these students will again find themselves at Camp Speers-Eljabar YMCA. We do know that they leave with a strong desire to return.

And being ones who always try to make the most of every situation - we ensured that everyone took home a camp brochure. Some even took home employment applications.

What a day! What a Camp! What a life!!!