Camp Jewell 2018 Summer Camp Guide

CAMP JEWELL YMCA OVERNIGHT CAMP

DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW THIS SUMMER

CampJewellYMCA.org A Branch of the YMCA of Greater Hartford

The Original Social Network Since1901

As a parent of two boys who have camp as their backyard, I often think about the impact that camp has on them. Like all parents, I worry about what the future holds for them and how best to prepare them for the challenges that they will face as they grow older. As a Director, I know the benefits of going away to overnight camp. It is a place where kids develop a sense of independence, learn good decision making, build skills in the many activities offered, and understand the importance of perseverance.

As a parent I see their growth each summer, their increasing confidence as they grow in ways I could never imagine. Each year they return home from camp they stand a little taller, more confident in themselves and what they can achieve. Soon they are counting down the days until the next summer, sharing stories of the adventures they had, and friendships made.

At Camp Jewell it’s true that your child will learn new skills, but it’s also a place where a kid can just be a kid in a supportive environment. Everything we do at camp is focused on creating a community to ensure this happens.

I look forward to meeting you this summer, Craig Dawson Associate Executive Director

WHY SEND YOUR CHILD TO CAMP JEWELL YMCA

Dear Parents, Summer Camp is just around the corner, and each year at this time, the staff and counselors of Camp Jewell YMCA are reminded how lucky we are to call this place our home. Camp is more than just a job for us, it’s our passion!

VALUES If you ask a camper what they like about camp, 95% of them will say something about being allowed to “be themselves”. This is not by happy accident, this is a result of a carefully crafted culture that is accepting of all, diverse in nature, and built on the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Caring: Thinking beyond yourself to consider others and the greater good of our community.

Honesty: Telling the truth and becoming someone others know they can trust. It’s being who you really are.

Respect: The Golden Rule; recognizing your own sense of worth as well as that of others.

Responsibility: Learn what is within your own control and take accountability for it.

SAFETY AND ACCREDITATION At Camp Jewell YMCA, safety is our primary concern. We meet the strict requirements of the American Camp Association, as well as annual inspection and licensing by the State of Connecticut. Our staff goes through extensive trainings prior to the start of camp to ensure that we provide a quality experience for your child. With a strong focus on crafting programs that meet the needs of campers no matter their interest or personality, our staff are keeping campers active while creating a real world social network where kids connect with each other.

In addition our YMCA is focused on building and strengthening communities.

At camp we do this through: Youth Development: Nurturing the potential of every child and teen.

Healthy Living: Promoting health and well-being through physical activity and healthy eating.

Social Responsibility: Living as part of a small community and taking care of the camp environment.

TRADITIONAL OVERNIGHT CAMP

AGES 7-14

Our two-week programs emphasize growth and strengthen character values in our campers. Throughout the program, campers learn more about themselves and how to work together as a cabin group. Whether it is playing an all-camp game, learning new skills in one of the many camper choice activities offered, or eating dinner family style in our dining hall—campers form meaningful relationships, and try new things, while having fun.

Our traditional overnight camps are full of outdoor activities like campfires, hikes, skits and songs, outdoor activities and the chance to sleep under the stars after cooking their own dinner over an open fire. Over the two weeks, campers disconnect from the technology and distractions of outside life. At camp, our number one priority is providing a safe, positive camper experience. We believe that campers are most successful when given the opportunity to push themselves out of their comfort zones and discover in themselves resiliency, responsibility and confidence.

In order to create a small community feeling, camp is divided into villages by age group. We start with our 7-9 year olds in Bandit Village, where we have one staff member for every three campers and a schedule that focuses on an introduction to overnight camp. You can rest assured that your child will be asking to stay at camp when it comes time to leave. Our Argonaut, Nit Nois, Ewok and Utopian Villages for campers aged 10-13 offers a wider selection of activities.

Our oldest traditional camp village is the Senior Village for 14 year old campers; this is the first step in our multi-summer leadership development program. Senior campers spend a week at camp building a strong community and participating in traditional camp activities.

During the second week, they will go on an extended trip outside of camp. They have a choice of hiking, biking, or canoeing under the guidance of our experienced and certified staff.

Regardless of your child’s age, our counselors focus on each individual camper, ensuring a great experience whether your child is a first-time or seasoned camper.

A TYPICAL DAY AT CAMP

Every day at camp is a new adventure. Activities do vary by age and village. The schedule below is a representation of an normal day.

7:00AM 7:40AM 8:00AM 8:15AM 8:45AM 9AM-Noon 12:15PM 12:45PM 1:00PM 2:15PM 3:15PM 3:45PM 5:10PM 5:30PM 7:00PM 8:30PM

The bugle blows—Rise and Shine Campers!

Chapel service Flag Raising A healthy and nutritious breakfast Shared Responsibility—Clean Camp Duties Three Skill Clinics Lunchtime Mail Call Siesta Time—a time to relax, write a letter home or take a nap Cabin Challenge Time—age-appropriate and cabin-focused activities Juice Jam at the Trading Post Cabin Swim Time Thunderdome! —campers gather and share their fun day Dinner Large Group Evening Activity Back to cabins for devotions— lights out!

Campers have the opportunity to customize their program each week by signing up for three progressive clinic activities, one of which can be swim instruction. These activities help campers gain confidence in specific skills that interest them. In the afternoon, they head to the waterfront for free swim and then spend time enjoying cabin activities.

We include a siesta daily, where campers have quiet time to read a book, hang out with friends, and write letters home.

Each day concludes with an all-camp or village activity and then cabin devotions where campers reflect on the day’s experiences. The weekend highlights are special all-camp activities that often include Carnivals, our World Series of Wiffleball, and much more.

FAQ’s Where do the campers sleep at camp? What are the cabins like?

Our cabins were designed to be used year round and as such have bathrooms and showers located within the cabin. All of our cabins have heat and electricity, sturdy wooden bunk beds and communal areas. Campers stay in age/gender appropriate cabins under the continuous care and supervision of qualified counselors who live in the same sleeping area as the campers.

What do campers eat at camp? What if my child has food allergies?

Our food service department provides three well-balanced meals and one snack each day at camp. Each meal includes several options aside from the main course, with nutritious, fresh food being a focus. Camp can accommodate a variety of dietary needs and restrictions.

What kinds of activities are offered at camp?

Campers have the opportunity to customize their program each week by signing up for three morning clinic activities (one of which can be swim instruction). With a wide range of progressive, skill based clinics our summer camp programs focus on developing social skills, team-work, self-esteem and an appreciation for the environment, all with a healthy dose of fun.

What if my child gets sick?

Our health center is staffed by registered nurses 24 hours a day. We have sick call several times a day for campers that might be feeling unwell. Our nursing staff will treat their symptoms and call you only if your camper spends the night in the infirmary, or visits repeatedly with the same medical concern. Our camp doctor and local emergency room is less than 7 miles from camp and you will always be notified if they leave camp for medical care.

What if my camper gets homesick?

It’s perfectly normal for a camper to miss home and this can be an important part of their camp experience as they develop a sense of independence and self-esteem. Luckily, camp is a safe place for campers to have these emotions and our counseling staff (many of whom were once homesick campers themselves), are highly trained in working with your child and keeping you informed on their well-being.

For more information visit campjewell.org/summer-camp-faqs

2018 CAMP

DATES AND RATES OPEN HOUSES: February 6 APRIL 8, MAY 6, JUNE 3 from 2-4pm Or contact camp.jewell@ghymca.org to set up a time and day that works for you!

TRADITIONAL OVERNIGHT CAMP Ages 7-14 Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 $2099 $1899 $1749 LEADER IN TRAINING CAMPS Age 15 Tier 1 Tier 3 $2099 $1899 $1749 COUNSELOR IN TRAINING/MAVERICK Age 16 (Must be 16 b y12/31/18 Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 $2299 $2049 $1949 JR RANCH (HORSEBACK RIDING) CAMP Ages 7-9

SESSION 1 June 24-July 7 SESSION 2 July 8-21 SESSION 3 July 22-August 4 SESSION 4 August 5-18

RANCH DRIVERS (HORSEBACK RIDING) CAMP Ages 10-12 RANCH TOP-HANDS (HORSEBACK RIDING) CAMP Ages 12-15 Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 $2499 $2299 $2099 ADVENTURE TRIPS Parks and Rec Ages 13-16 Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 $2499 $2399 $2299

Cape Cod

Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 $2299 $2159 $2059

Fun In The Sun

Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 $3199 $2299 $2899

Outdoor Adventure Camp Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 $2099 $1999 $1899

HOLDOVERS BETWEEN SESSIONS $125 PER CAMPER. Horsemanship Lessons (Optional for Traditional Camp) $150 for 5 - 1hr lessons

WHY ARE THERE 3 TIERS OF PRICES? Realizing that families have Jewell YMCA has instituted a voluntary 4-tier pricing program for our Summer Resident Camp. To Please choose the tier that is most suitable for your family. All children have the same experience no matter which tier a family is able to pay. The tier selected by a

Tier 1 Most accurately accounts for the true cost of operating camp supplies, wear and tear on equipment, transportation, and depreciation. Please pay this cost if you are able.

EASY

REGISTRATION 1. Register Online at www.campjewell.org/register 2. Download a registration form at www.campjewell.org/register and send it to: Camp Jewell YMCA PO Box 8 6 Prock Hill Rd, Colebrook, CT 06021 3. Fax the Registration Form to: 860.379.8715 4. Email a scanned copy of the Registration Form to: camp.jewell@ghymca.org

Tier 2 A partially subsidized rate for the full costs associated with attending camp.

Tier 3 A subsidized rate that only covers the basic costs associated with attending camp including, food,

IS FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE? Camp Jewell YMCA’s Annual Campaign, raises money for scholarships to provide a summer camp experience for over 400 children who wouldn’t camp experience.

For more information about the application process email: camp.jewell@ghymca.org or call us at 888.412.2267

WHAT OUR PARENTS ARE SAYING

“Camp Jewell is AWESOME! Both of my campers had a great time there, they made lots of new friends that they stay in touch with. The counselors and directors were amazing, the activities fun and most of all my kids begged me to stay! They will definitely be returning!”

“My kids have gone to Jewell for many years. Their experiences there have shaped them. They have leaned valuable social skills which have prepared them for life. Their camp friends are their friends forever and they come from all all walks of life.

Best money I have spent on their childhood experiences and they would agree! Camp Jewell is the best!”

FAMILY CAMPS

Family Camp provides a great experience for everyone in your family. Parents get the benefit of their family staying in a safe, wholesome environment, surrounded by caring staff members and plenty of fun activities. Children enjoy participation in challenging activities and games, while having fun with their parents. With Camp Jewell YMCA staff hosting, organizing, and facilitating the weekend, the only thing left to worry about is what fun activity to do next. Prices start at $900 for a cabin of up to 12 people. The only additional fees are for arts and crafts projects. Activities vary by season, but a great time is guaranteed!

WOMEN’S WELLNESS WEEKENDS Let’s face it, life can be stressful. A better you is crucial for meeting the demands of a hectic schedule, and maintaining positive relationships with yourself and your family. To be the best mother, wife and/or professional, you need time to relax, rejuvenate, and share like experiences with other women. At Camp Jewell YMCA, we offer getaway-weekends that help you grow in spirit, mind and body. Our diverse range of activities allow for personal challenge, skill building, and relaxation. Your participation in activities is completely up to you and you set your own pace. The weekend offers exciting activities such as horseback riding, kayaking, and climbing, as well as opportunities to have a massage, read a book, take a yoga class, or simply talk with other women.

MOTHER-DAUGHTER RIDING WEEKENDS

The Camp Jewell YMCA Mother-Daughter Riding Weekend is designed to strengthen the relationships of mothers and daughters through horse-related activities. Participants in this weekend share lifelong memories and discover new things about one another. This program at Camp Jewell YMCA offers the opportunity for a mother and daughter to spend special time together away from the rest of life’s distractions. Regardless of your riding ability you will have a great time throughout the weekend. Activities include horseback riding, trail rides, arts and crafts, and much, much more.

SCHOOL AND GROUP RETREATS “Being able to have all 3 children attend this year was great for us parents, giving us comfort that they are well cared-for, and having the ability to support each other while being away from us. We feel that Camp Jewell offers them a chance for independence and responsibility while having fun.”

Each year we host over 20,000 people in our weekday and weekend programs and can host up to 600 people at our two separate, full-service properties. What sets us apart is our ability to truly cater our programs to meet the goals of your group, large or small. No matter the season there is a reason to come and stay at Camp Jewell. During the winter, we utilize our snow making equipment to ensure a longer tubing season. In the spring, and fall we offer ample opportunities to enjoy the miles of trails at camp and to participate in many of our recreational, educational and teambuilding programs.

Our seasonal program staff has extensive training to provide fun, engaging, and ageappropriate activities. You can choose from a wide selection of teambuilding, recreational and educational programs that are designed to meet YOUR needs; you can customize your program to include as much, or as little, programming as you need.

for ages 7-15

RANCH CAMP

Hide-a-Way Ranch at Camp Jewell YMCA provides a unique setting for our Ranch Campers to enjoy a traditional camp experience with an equestrian focus. Our program is designed to form a strong, tight-knit community for campers in their cabins, riding groups, and in the overall Ranch Camp program.

We offer a variety of programs based on each camper’s age. Campers in Ranch are divided in cabins by age and riding groups based on experience: Junior Ranch for ages 7-9 (session 1 only), Drivers for ages 10-12 and Top Hands for ages 12-15. All campers are invited to participate in a variety of horse related activities including trail rides, hayrides, vaulting and off-horse lessons in addition to their daily riding lessons. Regardless of riding ability or experience, beginner to advanced, our counselors and riding instructors focus on each individual camper, ensuring a great experience in the riding ring and in camp overall.

Both the Driver and Top Hand programs are able to earn ranks through our Neckerchief Achievement Awards. This gives campers the opportunity to set a goal and a purpose for their lessons at camp. Neckerchief levels are awarded based on the ability to obtain specific riding skills, achieve a certain level of horsemanship knowledge, and be an involved participant in the Ranch community. There are seven different Neckerchief levels campers can work to accomplish. Often only a few campers each summer earn the top level neckerchiefs, making them a huge accomplishment.

Although Neckerchiefs are not required, it is an honorable and strong tradition at Camp Jewell’s Ranch Camp.

TEEN LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS Leaders-in-Training (LIT) Ages 15-16

A road trip across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Washington DC, and cultural attractions along the way! The trip includes 15 volunteer hours to give back to the communities we have the pleasure to explore.

CAPE COD

Our most popular trip, this two-week adventure trip will bring campers out on bicycles to explore the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Along the way they will visit the beach, stay in youth hostels,

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CAMP A return of an old favorite for 2018! Outdoor Adventure Club will include canoeing, hiking, biking, and much more as we travel throughout the Northeast!

NEW- FUN IN THE SUN!

A brand new trip for 2018, Fun in the Sun will be an amazing experience for all! We’ll be flying down to Florida for a whole new version of Parks and Rec. We’ll be visiting Universal Studios, Kennedy Space Center, Gatorland and more!

chapel service for all of camp.

Age 16

PARKS AND REC

solving. The LIT program includes a three-day overnight backpacking trip on the

COUNSELOR-IN-TRAINING AND MAVERICK (CIT) PROGRAM

TRIP PROGRAMS

AGES 13-16

the outdoors. Campers will have an opportunity to enjoy an inspiring outdoor experience while getting to know themselves better and building strong relationships within their trip group.

Our LIT programs provide an amazing leadership experience focused on individual development, team building, and self-discovery all while having fun at camp.

With a schedule that is unique to their villages, they spend time learning about leadership, as well as practicing and developing their skills. Campers leave our LIT

For campers who have participated in our LIT program, or who are looking for an experience longer than two weeks, we have our Jedi (LIT II) program. This has an additional focus on the behind-the-scenes aspects of our camp programs and involves experience learning to lead large group all-camp activities, a twonight overnight to Glacier Mountain, and a legacy project at camp.

Our CIT program is an extensive continuation of our leadership development programs with a particular focus on leadership working with children in a camp setting. This four-week program resolution and program development skills. The session starts with a week long training after which CIT’s are split into three groups and go through a rotation of learning how to be a day camp counselor, shadowing an overnight camp cabin, and learning more about what it takes to make camp happen!

The Maverick program is designed for those campers with a greater interest in horseback riding and is based out of our Hidea-Way Ranch. With a similar focus to CITs they spend their time learning how to assist beginner riding skills with a focus on safety The experience with both programs is a great way to begin working CITs. Campers must be 16 years of age by December 31 of the year they attend camp to participate in either program.

16-12-001b

Camp Jewell YMCA is located 1 hour from Hartford and under 2 ½ hours from New York City and Boston with easy access from Fairfield and Westchester Counties. From the top of Sunrise Mountain you’ll see miles of vista overlooking our own Triangle Lake.

CampJewellYMCA.org

OVERNIGHT CAMP

CAMP JEWELL YMCA P.O. Box 8 6 Prock Hill Road Colebrook, CT 06021 CampJewellYMCA.org

A branch of the YMCA of Metropolitan Hartford

CAMP JEWELL YMCA

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID HARTFORD, CT PERMIT # 142