Alumni Feature, A Message from Dave Koppeser

These six friends worked at Camp Belwood in the late 60s and have continued their friendship until this day. They regularly meet for their own mini reunions.

Our most recent reunion took place in August at "Camp Edwards,"
the residence of Bob Edwards on the shores of Lake Superior outside
of Thunder Bay. We reminisced about the traditional first supper at Camp Belwood of canned spaghetti, as we noshed on pie baked with fresh local blueberries. We plied the chilly lake waters using Bob's array of watercraft, including some beautiful outrigger canoes. Our campfire meal was bake your own pizza in an outdoor wood oven, followed by a real campfire on the shoreline and plenty of camp songs.

Decades after our camp experience we continue to enjoy the memories of the friends we made, and the good fortune to still gather for our mini-reunions.

A Message from VP of K-W YMCA Camping, Callum McKee

What a beautiful fall we've had, and it's been a busy one focusing on our camp projects. There is never a dull moment in the camp office or, at the end of a shovel!

Although there have been some unforeseen obstacles in its construction, the new Belwood pool will be open for the 2016 camp season. Many fall days have been spent at Belwood, and we are happy to report that the "base," pool shed, and electrical are complete.

The Ki-Wa-Y garden and greenhouse are now taking shape. With the garden site prepped and the physical construction of the Greenhouse underway, excitement in the project's potential is being sensed by all of us involved in this stage.

Due to some required redesign work, there has been a set-back to the original start date for the Wabanaki dining hall renovation. No need for concern, we expect actual construction to begin in 2016.

I hope you'll come and see your camp's latest project by joining us on one or more of our Alumni Days next spring. These days are such a great opportunity to spend some family time enjoying what camp has to offer, while reconnecting with old friends.

Nicole Smurthwaite, Camp Ki-Wa-Y Director

   

Stefanie Feth, Camp Belwood Director
We've had a super season at Belwood with an increasing trend of past day campers moving into our residential camp. (Our plan is working!) You know you are doing something right when these little guys and girls can't get enough of Camp Belwood!

Programming at Belwood was top notch this summer. From camp-wide events like Hockey Night in Canada, Western Rodeos, and traditional picnics at the GRCA Conservation area, to the new gaga ball pit and "boom-less" Bravo sailboats, our campers were excited, happy and breathlessly running from one great activity to the next! Read more...

Have you found us on Facebook, Twitter & our Camp Alumni Website?
 

Now that we have found you, we do not want to lose you, so please
keep your Alumni Profile updated with us so we can keep you in the loop.

Camp Belwood - Sunday, June 12, 2016  

Camp Ki-Wa-Y - Saturday, May 28, 2016  

Camp Wabanaki - Friday, June 3 to Sunday June 5, 2016

  

Together, we will ensure the tradition of Camping is the same enriching experience for future generations of Belwood, Ki-Wa-Y & Wabanaki campers and staff as experienced in days gone past. Your donation to the Camp Fund is the gift that will continue to give year after year after year. We know as adults, you "get" why camp is so important to the development of children and youth, and how the traditions and experiences enhance their lives.   Here's your opportunity to pay it forward, Invest Now!  

 

YMCA Camps value young people. Our focus is on developing the potential of every camper, and building strong character consistent with YMCA values. YMCA Camps encourage friendship, learning, and healthy child development, while providing positive role models to support children.

Your donation to YMCA Camps helps us ensure that all children have the opportunity to attend camp, where they can make new friends, have fun, and discover their full potential.
Donate Now !