Last Day of Session One – New Wawayanda Traditions

07/07/2016

Today was the last full day of session one! We’ve had such a phenomenal two weeks getting to know all of the campers. It has been wonderful watching campers try new things, expand their comfort zones, and grow through the summer camp experience. This afternoon, the six villages of Wawayanda got together to celebrate the end of first session. We ended the day with a core values ceremony, where campers received certificates and stickers representing the core value they demonstrated the most this session. Each camper received a sticker and certificate for one of the following: honesty, community, caring, diversity, stewardship, respect, responsibility, or inclusiveness. Campers were called up to speak about what they thought the different core values meant, and to share stories where their actions displayed the core values. After the ceremony ended, campers were able to place their handprint on a banner of the eight core values which is now being displayed in our dining hall! We’re sad to see this group of campers go, but can’t wait for second session and to see these campers return next summer!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ashley Loftus

Ashley is in her third year working at Frost Valley YMCA. Hailing from Co.Waterford in Ireland, Ashley is on an 18 month training visa, working as the Assistant Wawayanda Director in Summer and as a Program Instructor year round. Her background is in digital media with a degree in Digital Media and Communications from the University of Wolverhampton. Ashley found herself working for theater companies and after school programs for youth's and sought some new experiences here in the States that would fulfill her passion for working with young people and in the outdoors.