Located amidst the scenic landscapes of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Camp Shaver YMCA offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and history for its campers. As part of the broader YMCA community, this camp has been a place of growth and development for children for several decades. Surrounded by the rich, natural beauty of the New Mexico region, campers have the opportunity to explore the great outdoors while forming lifelong friendships.

Founded with the mission to foster a supportive, nurturing environment, Camp Shaver is dedicated to building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities. This is achieved through a variety of outdoor activities that emphasize teamwork, personal growth, and community building. The camp’s philosophy centers on the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Camp Shaver is a coeducational camp that welcomes boys and girls across different age groups. Each session is carefully structured to cater to the developmental needs and interests of each age group, ensuring that every camper has a memorable and enriching experience.

Join us at Camp Shaver YMCA, where adventures await and the memories last a lifetime!

Programs Offered by Camp Shaver YMCA

At Camp Shaver YMCA, they pride themselves on offering a diverse array of programs that cater to the interests and developmental stages of each camper. Their programs are designed to encourage learning, friendship, and fun, all within the beautiful natural setting of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

1. General Camp Programs: These sessions typically run for one or two weeks and are available throughout the summer. They include a wide range of activities from swimming and hiking to arts and crafts, ensuring that every camper finds something they love.

2. Specialty Programs:

Arts: For the creatively inclined, their arts program includes pottery, painting, and performance arts. Campers can explore their artistic talents while enjoying the inspiration of the surrounding landscapes.
Sports: Sports enthusiasts will enjoy specialized sessions in soccer, basketball, and archery. These programs focus on skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition.
Science: Their science program sparks curiosity with activities like astronomy, nature explorations, and simple experiments, helping campers discover the wonders of the world around them.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:00 AM – Wake Up & Morning Exercise
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Morning Activity Block (rotating through the selected program focus)
12:00 PM – Lunch
1:00 PM – Rest Hour/Free Time
2:00 PM – Afternoon Activity Block
5:00 PM – Dinner
6:00 PM – Evening Activities (campfires, group games, talent shows)
9:00 PM – Bedtime for younger campers
10:00 PM – Bedtime for older campers

Their structured schedule ensures that each day is full of activities and learning opportunities while also providing ample time for rest and free play. At Camp Shaver YMCA, they are dedicated to providing an enriching summer camp experience that fosters personal growth and lifelong memories.

Accommodations in Camp Shaver YMCA

At Camp Shaver YMCA, they ensure that every aspect of their campers’ stay is comfortable, safe, and conducive to an immersive camp experience. From sleeping arrangements to dining, they’ve tailored each detail to meet the needs of their campers.

Sleeping Arrangements: Campers at Camp Shaver YMCA are housed in cozy, rustic cabins designed to blend into the natural surroundings. Each cabin accommodates groups of campers, typically ranging from 8 to 12 individuals per cabin, depending on age and group size. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings, providing a comfortable and communal living experience. This setup is ideal for fostering friendships and community spirit among the campers.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Their camp dining hall is the heart of Camp Shaver YMCA, where campers gather to enjoy nutritious and delicious meals prepared by their skilled kitchen staff. They offer three well-balanced meals per day, along with healthy snacks between activities.
Dietary Accommodations: They are committed to catering to the dietary needs of all their campers. Whether it’s allergies, vegetarian, vegan, or specific dietary restrictions due to religious beliefs, their kitchen staff is prepared to accommodate. They encourage parents to discuss their child’s dietary needs with us prior to arrival to ensure they can provide the appropriate meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities: Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathhouse, which includes multiple showers, toilets, and sinks. These facilities are separated by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained by their staff to ensure hygiene and comfort. They also prioritize environmental conservation, so all facilities are equipped with water-efficient fixtures.

At Camp Shaver YMCA, they strive to create a home away from home where campers can enjoy their summer adventures in comfort and safety. Their accommodations are designed to ensure that all campers have a pleasant, memorable, and engaging stay.

Activities in Camp Shaver YMCA

Camp Shaver YMCA provides a wide array of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and ages, promoting both fun and educational experiences. Here’s what campers can look forward to:

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Their outdoor pool is a popular spot, offering both free swim and instructional swimming sessions led by certified lifeguards.
Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around Albuquerque, experiencing the natural beauty and wildlife of the area.
Crafts: From pottery to painting, their arts and crafts sessions allow campers to express their creativity.
Archery: Taught by experienced instructors, archery is a favorite that teaches focus and precision.
Sports: A variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, and volleyball, are available for campers to participate in team sports and develop athletic skills.
Nature Studies: Summer camps can learn about local flora and fauna through guided explorations and interactive lessons.
Camping Skills: Skills like fire-building, navigation, and outdoor cooking are taught, emphasizing safety and survival techniques.

Special Events or Traditions:

Opening Campfire: A tradition that kicks off the session, where campers and staff gather for introductions, songs, and setting the tone for the camp experience.
Talent Shows: Campers get to showcase their talents, whether it’s music, dance, magic, or comedy.
Color Wars: An all-camp competition where campers are divided into teams to compete in various fun and spirited activities, fostering team-building and camaraderie.
Closing Ceremony: A time to reflect on the session, recognize achievements, and say goodbyes, often filled with awards and emotional farewells.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Training: Older campers have opportunities to develop leadership skills through specific programs designed to teach responsibility, conflict resolution, and group management.
Environmental Stewardship: Through hands-on environmental education, campers learn the importance of conservation and sustainable practices.
Personal Growth: Activities are aimed at developing confidence, independence, and resilience, helping campers to grow personally and socially.

At Camp Shaver YMCA, every day is a new adventure filled with learning, growth, and fun, ensuring that every camper has a rich, fulfilling summer experience.

The staff of Camp Shaver YMCA

At Camp Shaver YMCA, they understand that a great camp experience starts with a great staff. Their commitment to safety, quality, and education is reflected in their rigorous staff selection and training processes.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio: They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. Their general ratio is one staff member for every eight campers, though this ratio may be even lower for younger age groups or specific activities that require more intensive supervision.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Recruitment: They recruit staff from a variety of sources, including local universities, teaching programs, and referrals from within the YMCA community. Potential staff members are selected for their enthusiasm, experience, and alignment with the YMCA’s core values.
Background Checks: All potential hires undergo comprehensive background checks, including criminal history and references, to ensure the safety and security of their campers.
Qualifications: Staff members typically have experience in education, child development, or a related field. Many are pursuing or have completed degrees in relevant areas. They also seek diversity in their staff to bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives to their camp.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before the summer session begins, all staff undergo extensive training that covers emergency procedures, safety protocols, child behavior management, and the specific responsibilities of their assigned roles.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional training may include lifeguard certification, wilderness first responder, and other relevant qualifications depending on their role at camp.
Ongoing Education: They encourage and often sponsor their staff to pursue further education and certifications that enhance their skills and knowledge in working with children and managing outdoor activities.

Their investment in their staff is an investment in the safety and success of their campers. At Camp Shaver YMCA, they pride themselves on creating an environment where both campers and staff can learn, grow, and enjoy a truly enriching summer experience.

Safety and Health in Camp Shaver YMCA

At Camp Shaver YMCA, the health and safety of their campers and staff are their top priorities. They adhere to strict safety protocols and maintain comprehensive health facilities to ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone at camp.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Training: All staff members participate in extensive pre-camp safety training, including emergency response drills, risk management, and activity-specific safety practices.
Supervision: Campers are under constant supervision by experienced staff to ensure their safety during all activities, including specialized programs like swimming and archery.
Equipment and Facilities: Regular inspections and maintenance of all equipment and facilities are conducted to meet safety standards. This includes sporting equipment, play structures, and sleeping accommodations.
Emergency Protocols: They have established protocols for a variety of potential emergencies, including severe weather, health crises, and fires. These protocols are regularly reviewed and updated, and drills are conducted with campers and staff at the start of each session.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Shaver YMCA is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and/or a visiting doctor. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries, and illnesses, and to manage any ongoing medical needs of campers, such as medication administration.
Medical Equipment and Supplies: Their health center is stocked with necessary medical supplies and equipment to address immediate healthcare needs. This includes first aid kits, emergency medicines, and tools for basic medical procedures.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, staff are trained to respond immediately, providing necessary first aid and contacting emergency services if required.
Communication: Parents are promptly notified in the event of any emergency affecting their child. Clear communication protocols are established to keep parents informed during ongoing situations.
Evacuation Plans: Evacuation routes and procedures are well-documented and communicated to staff and campers. Regular drills ensure that everyone knows how to safely evacuate in the event of a fire or other emergencies requiring evacuation.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: They maintain strong relationships with local emergency services to ensure a rapid response in case of a serious incident at the camp.

Camp Shaver YMCA is committed to providing a secure environment where campers can enjoy their activities without concern for their physical safety, allowing them to focus on fun, learning, and growth during their time at camp.

Cost and Registration in Camp Shaver YMCA

Camp Shaver YMCA is committed to making its programs accessible and affordable while providing high-quality experiences that justify the investment in your child’s summer. Below are details regarding the cost of attendance, the registration process, and financial support options.

Cost of Attendance: The cost of attending Camp Shaver varies depending on the session length and program type. Typically, costs include:

All meals and snacks
Lodging in their well-maintained cabins
All program activities and materials
24-hour supervision and care from their trained staff For a typical one-week session, the cost may range from $400 to $600. Specialty programs or extended sessions might have different pricing.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Early Registration: They encourage early registration to secure a spot, as sessions can fill up quickly. Early registrants often benefit from a discounted rate.
Online Registration: Parents can register their children through their secure online registration system on the Camp Shaver YMCA website. You will need to create an account, select your session, and fill in the necessary camper information.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January for the summer sessions and closes once sessions are full or approximately two weeks before each session begins.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Recognizing that families have different budgets, they offer flexible payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of camp over several months.
Refunds: A full refund is available up to one month before the session begins, less a non-refundable deposit that covers administrative costs. After this point, refunds may be partial or unavailable, depending on the timing of the cancellation.
Cancellations: If a session is canceled by Camp Shaver due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extreme weather conditions), full refunds or alternatives for rescheduled sessions are provided.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: They offer need-based scholarships to help reduce the cost of camp for families in financial need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees.
Financial Aid Applications: Families interested in financial aid can apply through a simple application form available on their website, detailing their financial situation. Documentation of income and expenses may be required to assess the application.

At Camp Shaver YMCA, they strive to ensure that no child misses out on a camp experience due to cost. They are dedicated to working with families to find financial solutions that make their enriching camp experience accessible to all.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Shaver YMCA

Preparing for camp can be an exciting time for both parents and campers, especially those joining us for the first time. Here’s a guide to help ensure that you are well-prepared and informed about what to expect at Camp Shaver YMCA.

Packing List: To make sure campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable camp experience, here is a basic packing list:

Clothing for all weather conditions (include layers for cool evenings)
Sturdy footwear (hiking boots and sandals)
Bathing suits and towels
Toiletries and personal items
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
Water bottle
Sleeping bag and pillow
Flashlight or headlamp
Any necessary medications (with instructions)
Books or small games for quiet times

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Camp Shaver encourages a technology-free environment to help campers fully engage with their surroundings and each other. Mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices are discouraged and, if brought, will be collected and stored safely until the end of the session.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and security of their campers, visitation during sessions is generally not allowed except on designated family days or by special arrangements with camp management.
Behavior: They expect all campers to adhere to behavior guidelines that promote safety, respect, and inclusiveness. These are communicated to the campers on the first day and reinforced throughout their stay.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:
- Be open to making new friends and trying new activities. Camp is a great place to learn new skills and step out of your comfort zone.
- Communicate your needs. Their staff are here to make your camp experience amazing. If you’re uncomfortable or need help, let them know.
For Parents:
- Discuss what camp will be like with your child, focusing on the positive aspects and what they can look forward to.
- Pack together with your child to ensure they know what they have brought and are familiar with their items.
- If possible, visit the camp beforehand or explore it online to familiarize your child with the setting.
- Address any anxiety or questions your child may have openly and reassure them of the fun and safety at camp.

Preparing well can help ensure that the camp experience is a memorable and joyful time for both first-time and returning campers. At Camp Shaver YMCA, they’re excited to provide an environment where children can grow, explore, and make lasting friendships.

Camp Shaver YMCA offers an enriching, fun-filled experience for children of all ages in the picturesque setting of Albuquerque, New Mexico. With a strong emphasis on safety, personal growth, and community, Camp Shaver provides a diverse array of programs and activities designed to challenge and excite campers while fostering lifelong skills and friendships. Their dedicated staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and commitment to inclusivity ensure a welcoming environment where every camper can thrive.

Whether your child is seeking adventure, looking to develop new skills, or simply wanting to enjoy the great outdoors, Camp Shaver YMCA is the perfect summer destination. They look forward to welcoming new faces and returning friends each year, continuing their tradition of creating memorable and impactful camp experiences.