YMCA Camp Fostering Confidence and Community
Waddell Elementary School was full of smiles and laughter. Children were scattered around playing games and participating in themed activities. Staff members were heard personally greeting every camper as they walked in the door.
Creating an inviting atmosphere is a top priority of Camp Rockbridge, a YMCA summer camp. Waddell Elementary School has partnered with the YMCA to host the YMCA summer camp program. This year’s program began May 27 and runs until Aug 1. The theme for this year is “Summer Reimagined,” where campers can explore a new theme each week of the summer.
The first week’s theme was “Let’s Play,” where students explored video games, board games, and gym activities.
Other themes include “Roar,” “Eco Adventure,” “Get A Clue,” “Let’s Travel,” “It’s Our Favorite Time of the Year,” “Color Wars,” “Born to Be Wild,” “Splish Splash,” and “Let’s Get Theatrical.” Campers will participate in an escape room, puzzles, holiday celebrations, science experiments and a color battle. There will also be weekly field trips related to the week’s theme.
The program’s goal is to provide a safe and fun atmosphere for the children to enjoy summer activities. It is also a way for working families to receive childcare. Campers participate in activities to help develop social skills, learn and build confidence.
Counselors work with campers to learn while getting out of their comfort zone. Activities are created to inspire teamwork and problemsolving skills.
It is Gwen Whitmore’s second year working as childcare director with the summer camp. However, she has served children and the Rockbridge community all her life. She walks around the room making sure the children are safe and happy, even sitting down to join their games. The other counselors are also seen sitting with campers gathered around them.
Trained counselors work with the children to help foster a comfortable and inclusive environment. They build relationships among both the children and their families. They strive to provide an atmosphere where students are comfortable and feel as if they can try new things.
Whitmore said that the first days of camp came with a lot of tears and nerves, from both the children and the parents. “Now they are excited as they are comfortable with the space and staff,” she said.
CAMPERS spend their mornings playing games, such as Twister, as they learn to work as a team. (Skyler Hollins photo)
CAMP ROCKBRIDGE strives to create a collaborative and inviting atmosphere. (Skyler Hollins photo)
CAMPERS CAN choose to participate in group activities, smaller games or crafts. (Skyler Hollins photo)
Last year registration was slower than expected. However, this year over 90 children are registered for each week. Registration opened in March and filled up quickly.
While registration does not close until the Monday before camp begins, campers will now be placed on a waitlist. Registration is open on a week-to-week basis, so children and families can choose what interests them and which dates work best.
“It is really one of very few summer opportunities for children in the community,” said Whitmore.
Whitmore said that the children look forward to “Roar” week the most. Campers learn about different types of animals and their habitats. They also take a field trip to the Natural Bridge Zoo.
Other favorites are “Color Wars” and “Splish Splash.” In “Color Wars” campers will explore the distinction of colors and end the week with a color battle. “Splish Splash” allows campers to participate in a favorite summer activity, swimming.
Holding the camp is a community effort. Lexington City Public Schools are providing the building as well as transportation for trips. Rockbridge Feeds provides nutrition education. Washington and Lee University has allowed the camp access to its swimming facilities so that campers can swim all summer long.
“I really pride myself with the fact it’s a community effort,” Whitmore said.
The YMCA also holds Y After School Care and the Early Learning Center. These programs offer care for children throughout the school year.
A YMCA membership is not required; however, members may receive member rates. Financial assistance is also available to those who may need it. Contact your local branch to learn more. Registration can be completed in person at the Rockbridge Area YMCA or online at www.ymcavbr.org/ camp.
