I didn't go to camp as a kid. I didn't know much about the YMCA. I started working at camp as a dishwasher because it was close enough to my parent's house to ride my bike to work. From the dish room window I could see the counselors and campers in the dining hall, singing songs and wearing costumes. I didn't understand why. That's changed now. It took a few years, but I finally 'got it.' Camp (and the YMCA) are about opportunity. Opportunity to grow as an individual in a supportive environment, with the encouragement of positive role models. The opportunity to make great friends. Opportunity to learn skills that help kids believe in themselves. It's more than canoeing, archery and horseback riding. It's about believing that you can master a new skill, overcome fears, make responsible decisions and to become an important part of a community.
I believe with absolute certainty that the friendships and people skills gained at camp help kids learn how to be a part of a healthy community and a responsible, respectful, caring, honest, person. Our staff at Nissokone are passionate about making a difference in the world one child at a time. I'm absolutely determined to make more possible for more kids in this summer because I've seen and experienced first-hand the life-changing opportunities camp provides.
A hundred years ago, the first group of campers here looked up at the stars. Today, we still look up at those same stars. A lot has changed since Camp Nissokone started in 1914, but the night sky hasn't changed, and neither has our commitment to creating life-changing experiences. Please join us to give children self-confidence through new achievements, and new friendships that last a lifetime that happen with conversation around a glowing campfire under the stars.
We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. Camp helps youth and teens unplug and discover the world around them. Campers gain independence, make new friends, challenge their limits, explore the natural world, and create lifelong habits of healthy living. At camp there are trees to climb, memories to be made and campfires under the stars, all under the supervision of caring, enthusiastic staff hailing from all over the world. Not all children have access to this incredible enriching experience. We count on the generosity of people like you to help give kids this life-changing experience. Your gift will have a meaningful, enduring impact- lifelong friendships, new skills and new self-confidence learned at Camp Nissokone. We’re committed to youth development and know lasting change comes when we all work together to invest in our children.
When you donate to Camp Nissokone, you make our community stronger through youth programs. $250 provides 1 week of Day Camp Day camp, $525 will send a child to overnight camp, helping kids form new friendships, strengthen confidence and sharpen character. The Y raises funds so everyone, regardless of income or background, has the ability to learn, grow and thrive at camp. Every charitable dollar donated to the YMCA Camp Nissokone has a lasting impact on the youth in our community. Give today for a better us.
