Welcome to YMCA Camp Kitaki, a cherished getaway nestled in the scenic surroundings of Louisville, Nebraska. Situated amidst lush forests and near the tranquil Platte River, their camp offers a perfect blend of adventure and serenity, making it an ideal destination for young explorers.

Established with the vision of fostering lifelong friendships and instilling a deep appreciation for nature, Camp Kitaki has been a home away from home for countless youth since its inception. At the heart of their philosophy lies a commitment to nurturing the potential of every camper, supporting their healthy development in spirit, mind, and body.

YMCA Camp Kitaki is a camp welcoming boys and girls across various age groups. They provide a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment where campers from ages 7 to 17 can thrive. Through a myriad of outdoor activities, team-building exercises, and leadership training, they aim to empower their campers with confidence, resilience, and a sense of community.

Join us at YMCA Camp Kitaki for an unforgettable summer of growth, adventure, and fun, all while creating memories that last a lifetime!

Programs Offered by YMCA Camp Kitaki

YMCA Camp Kitaki offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental needs of children and teens. Each program is carefully crafted to provide a balance of fun, learning, and personal growth, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and enriching experience.

Programs Offered:

Traditional Camps:
- Length of Sessions: Offered in one-week and two-week sessions.
- Description: These camps focus on traditional outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, archery, and campfires. Campers are grouped by age to ensure activities are age-appropriate and engaging.
Specialty Programs:
- Arts Camp: Focuses on creativity through painting, drama, music, and crafts. Sessions typically last one week.
- Sports Camp: Emphasizes skill development in sports like soccer, basketball, and volleyball. Available in one-week sessions.
- Science Camp: Explores the wonders of science through hands-on experiments and nature exploration. Offered as one-week sessions.
Leadership Training:
- Length of Sessions: Ranges from two weeks to the full summer for advanced leadership programs.
- Description: Designed for older campers, these programs aim to develop leadership skills through advanced camp responsibilities, mentoring younger campers, and participating in specialized workshops.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (grouped by program)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Quiet time/rest
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (specialty program sessions or free choice)
5:00 PM: Dinner
6:00 PM: Evening activities (camp-wide games, talent shows)
8:00 PM: Campfire and night-time stories
9:30 PM: Lights out

This structured schedule ensures that campers are engaged from morning to night with activities that are not only fun but also contribute to their personal and social development. Whether your child is an aspiring artist, a budding scientist, or an athlete, YMCA Camp Kitaki has something special to offer!

Accommodations in YMCA Camp Kitaki

YMCA Camp Kitaki provides comfortable and safe accommodations that enhance the overall camping experience. Their facilities are designed to foster community and camaraderie among campers while also respecting individual needs.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Campers stay in cozy, rustic cabins that are nestled throughout the camp’s natural landscape. Each cabin houses between 8 to 12 campers and is equipped with bunk beds. Cabins are grouped by age and program to ensure a supportive peer environment. They are also supervised by trained counselors who stay in the cabins to provide guidance and ensure safety.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Camp Kitaki offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three well-balanced meals per day, served in their communal dining hall. The meals are designed to be nutritious and appealing to young campers, providing the energy they need for an active day.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, their kitchen is equipped to provide meals that accommodate vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific food allergies or dietary restrictions. They ask parents to inform us about their child’s dietary needs well in advance so they can prepare accordingly.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Facilities: Separate bathroom and shower facilities are strategically located near each cabin cluster. The facilities are gender-segregated and are maintained multiple times a day to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Accessibility: All facilities are designed to be accessible, ensuring that campers of all mobility levels can use them comfortably and safely.

At YMCA Camp Kitaki, they strive to make every camper’s stay as comfortable as possible, with a focus on safety, cleanliness, and accessibility to ensure a worry-free camping experience.

Activities in YMCA Camp Kitaki

YMCA Camp Kitaki is packed with a variety of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and abilities, promoting both fun and skill development. Their camp provides a dynamic environment where children can explore new hobbies, hone existing skills, and enjoy the great outdoors.

List of Activities Offered:

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps, swimming, hiking, canoeing, and archery.
Creative Arts: Crafts, painting, drama, and music.
Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and various field games.
Nature Exploration: Environmental education, wildlife spotting, and gardening.
Team-building Exercises: Ropes courses, group challenges, and leadership games.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening Campfire: A welcoming event where campers and staff gather to sing songs, perform skits, and set the tone for their session.
Theme Days: Special days where activities are based around a specific theme, such as “Superhero Day” or “Pirate Day.”
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their talents in front of their peers, fostering a supportive community environment.
Closing Ceremony: A heartfelt event to conclude the session, featuring awards, reflections, and recognition of camper achievements.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Personal Growth: Through various activities, campers develop self-confidence, independence, and a sense of responsibility.
Social Skills: Activities are designed to enhance teamwork, communication, and empathy among peers.
Physical Skills: Sports and outdoor activities help improve physical health and motor skills.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts sessions encourage creativity and provide a medium for self-expression.
Leadership Skills: Older campers can engage in leadership roles, guiding younger ones and helping manage camp activities.

At YMCA Camp Kitaki, every activity is an opportunity for growth, learning, and making lasting memories. Their programs are tailored to help each camper discover new passions, build character, and develop life skills in a supportive, fun-filled environment.

The staff of YMCA Camp Kitaki

YMCA Camp Kitaki takes pride in maintaining a highly qualified, dedicated staff committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for all campers. They prioritize camper safety and satisfaction through rigorous hiring standards, comprehensive training, and a favorable staff-to-camper ratio.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

General Ratio: Camp Kitaki maintains a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:6, ensuring that each camper receives ample attention and support.
Specific Programs: For specialized activities like swimming and archery, the ratio is adjusted to 1:4 to enhance safety and supervision.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Selection Process: Prospective staff members undergo a thorough application and interview process, including extensive background checks and reference verifications.
Qualifications: Staff are selected based on their experience in child care, education, or related fields. Many are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, child psychology, or recreation management. A passion for working with children and a strong alignment with the camp’s values are essential traits for all staff members.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: All staff participate in a comprehensive pre-camp training that covers camp operations, emergency procedures, child development, conflict resolution, and activity planning.
CPR and First Aid: Every staff member is required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training is provided for those involved in specific activities that require further safety measures, such as lifeguard certification for swimming instructors.
Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, staff receive ongoing training and support to ensure they remain equipped to handle any situation that might arise and to continue fostering a positive camp environment.

YMCA Camp Kitaki’s commitment to high staffing standards ensures that every camper enjoys a secure, supportive, and enriching experience. Their staff are not only caretakers and supervisors but also role models who contribute significantly to the personal growth and development of each camper.

Safety and Health in YMCA Camp Kitaki

YMCA Camp Kitaki is dedicated to ensuring the highest standards of safety and health for all campers and staff. They have implemented comprehensive safety protocols and maintain on-site health facilities to manage any medical needs or emergencies that may arise during camp sessions.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Risk Assessments: Regular risk assessments are conducted to ensure that all activities and camp environments are safe.
Emergency Drills: Campers and staff participate in regular emergency drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure everyone knows how to respond in various scenarios.
Activity Safety: Specific safety protocols are tailored to each activity, particularly for higher-risk activities such as swimming, archery, and climbing. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained.
Supervision: Continuous supervision is provided by trained staff, with extra attention given to activities that require closer monitoring.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Kitaki is equipped with a well-staffed health center, managed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses or nurse practitioners.
Capabilities: The health center can handle a range of medical needs from treating minor injuries and illnesses to stabilizing a camper until further medical treatment can be accessed if needed.
Medication Management: Staff are trained to securely store and administer medications according to physician instructions and parental consent.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Communication Plan: In the event of a significant emergency, there is a clear communication plan in place to inform parents, staff, and local authorities. This ensures that everyone is accurately informed and that appropriate steps are taken swiftly.
Medical Emergency Response: For medical emergencies, the camp has protocols for immediate response and, if necessary, transportation to the nearest hospital. Camp staff are trained in first aid and CPR to provide initial care until professional medical help is available.
Coordination with Local Authorities: Camp Kitaki coordinates closely with local emergency services to ensure a quick response to any incident. This partnership helps in conducting safety drills and planning for possible emergency scenarios.

YMCA Camp Kitaki is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment so that parents can feel confident about their child’s well-being, and campers can enjoy their activities and experiences without unnecessary risk.

Cost and Registration in YMCA Camp Kitaki

YMCA Camp Kitaki is committed to providing an accessible and affordable camping experience for families, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to enjoy their enriching programs. Below are the details on the cost, registration process, and financial support options available at their camp.

Cost of Attendance:

Fees: The cost of attending YMCA Camp Kitaki varies depending on the program and length of stay. Fees typically cover all aspects of the camp experience including lodging, meals, activities, and supervision.
What’s Included: The registration fee includes accommodation in cabins, three meals per day, all program materials, and access to all camp facilities and activities.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Families can register their children through their secure online registration platform. This system allows parents to complete all necessary forms, select sessions, and submit payment.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the camp season starts and remains open until all spots are filled. They recommend registering early as some sessions and specialty programs fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: To assist families in managing the cost of camp, YMCA Camp Kitaki offers flexible payment plans. Families can choose to spread the cost over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellations: They understand that plans can change, so they offer a structured refund policy. Cancellations made well in advance of the session start date are eligible for a full or partial refund, minus a processing fee. Details of the refund policy, including specific deadlines, are clearly outlined during the registration process.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: YMCA Camp Kitaki offers financial aid and scholarships to families in need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees.
Application for Aid: Families interested in applying for financial aid can fill out a scholarship application form available on their website. This form requires information about the family’s financial situation to assess the level of assistance needed.
Community Support: The availability of scholarships is made possible through generous donations from community members and alumni, emphasizing their commitment to accessibility for all children.

They encourage families interested in YMCA Camp Kitaki to explore all the financial support options they provide to ensure that every child has the chance to experience the joys and benefits of camp.

YMCA Camp Kitaki offers two types of summer camps with different fees:

Summer Camp (ages 9-14): This traditional camp program costs $775 per camper.
Ranch Camp (ages 10-17): This program focuses on horseback riding and costs $905 per camper.

Parent and Camper Preparation in YMCA Camp Kitaki

Ensuring that both campers and their parents are well-prepared for the camp experience is key to a successful and enjoyable time at YMCA Camp Kitaki. Here’s a guide on what to pack, the rules and policies to be aware of, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List:

Clothing: Pack comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and layers for cooler evenings. Include swimwear, a hat, and sturdy footwear like sneakers and hiking boots.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, along with a pillow for cabin use.
Toiletries: Include toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sunscreen. Don’t forget insect repellent and a small first aid kit.
Miscellaneous: Pack a flashlight, water bottle, sunglasses, and any necessary medications (with clear instructions).

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and ensure all campers are present at the moment, personal electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles are generally not allowed. If needed for travel, these devices are collected by staff upon arrival and returned at departure.
Visitation: For the safety and security of campers and staff, visitation during camp sessions is typically limited to special events and designated visiting days. Parents are encouraged to check the camp’s schedule and adhere to these guidelines.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow all camp rules, show respect to staff and peers, and participate actively in scheduled activities. This ensures a safe and positive environment for everyone.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

Pre-Camp Preparation: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships to be made. Address any anxieties and reassure your child with positive affirmations about their upcoming adventure.
Communication: Explain how communication will work, including the camp’s policy on letters, emails, and phone calls. Prepare them for the experience of being away from home by discussing coping strategies for homesickness.
Set Goals: Encourage your camper to set personal goals for their camp experience, whether it’s trying a new activity, making a new friend, or developing a specific skill.

By preparing adequately, understanding the camp’s policies, and setting the right expectations, parents can help ensure that their child has a rewarding and memorable experience at YMCA Camp Kitaki.

YMCA Camp Kitaki offers a rich, engaging experience that goes far beyond just summer fun. Through a wide range of activities, dedicated staff, and a supportive community environment, campers are given the opportunity to grow, explore, and create lasting memories. The comprehensive preparation guidelines, safety protocols, and financial assistance options ensure that every family can approach the camping season with confidence and excitement.

Whether it’s a child’s first summer at camp or a return visit, YMCA Camp Kitaki is committed to providing an unforgettable experience that nurtures both personal and social development in a beautiful natural setting. Join us for a summer filled with adventure, friendship, and the joy of discovery that only Camp Kitaki can offer!