Welcome to Camp Zeke, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of New York, NY. Located in the heart of the region, Camp Zeke is surrounded by natural beauty and notable landmarks, providing a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable summer experience.

Founded with a vision to foster personal growth and a sense of community, Camp Zeke has been a home away from home for countless youth since its inception. Their mission is to empower each camper to reach their full potential, both physically and mentally, in a nurturing and vibrant environment.

Camp Zeke is a camp welcoming boys and girls across various age groups. They specialize in creating a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive atmosphere where every camper feels valued and inspired. Whether it’s through sports, arts, adventure, or team-building activities, Camp Zeke offers a diverse program that caters to the interests and developmental needs of each age group, ensuring a summer packed with growth, fun, and adventure.

Programs Offered by Camp Zeke

Camp Zeke offers a variety of engaging programs tailored to cater to a wide range of interests and age groups. Each session at Camp Zeke is designed to ensure that every camper has an enriching, fun, and memorable summer.

Programs Offered

General Camp Program:
- Duration: Options range from one-week, two-week sessions to full summer enrollment.
- Activities: This program includes a mix of sports, arts, recreational activities, and outdoor adventures. Campers get a balanced experience that emphasizes physical activity, creativity, and social interaction.
Specialty Programs:
- Arts: Focuses on creative expression through painting, sculpture, performing arts, and more. Sessions are designed to foster an appreciation for various art forms.
- Sports: Offers intensive skill development in sports such as soccer, basketball, tennis, and swimming. Coaches and instructors focus on technique, teamwork, and personal growth.
- Science: Engages campers in hands-on activities that promote curiosity and critical thinking. Projects can range from robotics to environmental science, providing practical and exciting learning experiences.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake-up
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Rally
9:30 AM: First Activity Session (e.g., Arts, Sports, or Science Workshop)
11:30 AM: Second Activity Session
1:00 PM: Lunch
2:00 PM: Rest Hour
3:00 PM: Third Activity Session
5:00 PM: Free Time / Elective Activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening Activities (Campfire, Talent Show, Themed Nights)
9:00 PM: Cabin Time (time to reflect on the day with cabin mates and counselors)
10:00 PM: Lights Out

Each day is structured to provide a balanced mix of learning, play, and rest, ensuring that all campers have the energy and enthusiasm to fully participate and enjoy their camp experience. Whether it’s a one-week session or an entire summer, Camp Zeke’s programs are designed to enrich the lives of its campers through diverse experiences and lasting friendships.

Accommodations in Camp Zeke

Camp Zeke provides comfortable and well-maintained accommodations that ensure a safe and enjoyable stay for all campers. Their facilities are designed to foster a community atmosphere while also respecting the need for personal space and privacy.

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers are housed in cozy, rustic cabins that blend traditional camp aesthetics with modern comforts. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal belongings, and large windows to let in natural light. Cabins are grouped by age and gender to create supportive community units where campers can form lasting friendships.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: At Camp Zeke, they understand the importance of nutritious, delicious meals to fuel the high-energy demands of camp life. Their dining hall serves three balanced meals per day, plus snacks. Meals are served buffet-style, offering a variety of choices to cater to different tastes and preferences.
Dietary Accommodations: They are committed to inclusive dining options for all dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher. Their kitchen staff is experienced in handling various dietary restrictions and allergies, ensuring that every camper has safe and satisfying dining options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Facilities: Bathrooms and showers are conveniently located in each cabin or a central location nearby, depending on the specific camp layout. Facilities are gender-segregated and designed to afford privacy and convenience. They are well-lit, clean, and regularly maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Eco-Friendly Practices: In line with their commitment to the environment, their bathroom facilities are equipped with water-saving fixtures, and they encourage all campers to use eco-friendly products.

Camp Zeke’s accommodations are thoughtfully arranged to ensure that every camper feels comfortable, secure, and part of the vibrant camp community. With an emphasis on safety, cleanliness, and accessibility, they strive to create a home away from home where campers can thrive both personally and socially.

Activities in Camp Zeke

Camp Zeke is bustling with a broad range of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. From outdoor adventures to creative arts and skill development, there’s something for everyone at Camp Zeke. Here’s a closer look at the activities and special opportunities offered:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Activities like hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and zip-lining offer thrilling experiences that make the most of their scenic surroundings.
Water Sports: Their waterfront activities include swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, all supervised by certified lifeguards.
Sports: Summer camps can participate in organized sports such as soccer, basketball, tennis, and volleyball to improve physical fitness and teamwork skills.
Creative Arts: Their arts program encourages creativity through crafts, painting, pottery, and drama workshops.
Wellness Activities: Yoga and meditation sessions are offered to promote mental and physical well-being.
Cooking: Culinary activities cater to budding chefs who want to learn new cooking skills and recipes.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfires: Regular campfires offer a time for stories, songs, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
Color War: This multi-day event is a camp favorite, featuring team competitions across various activities, promoting spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Shows: Campers can showcase their talents and celebrate the diverse skills of their peers in a supportive environment.
Theme Days: Special themed days such as “Superhero Day” or “Backwards Day” add a fun twist to the regular schedule and encourage creative expression.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop essential skills such as communication, problem-solving, and team management.
Specialty Clinics: For campers interested in specific skills, specialty clinics in sports, arts, and science offer advanced instruction and practice.
Environmental Education: Activities focused on nature and sustainability teach campers about environmental stewardship and the importance of conservation.

Camp Zeke is dedicated to offering a diverse array of activities that not only entertain but also enrich the campers’ lives. With each activity, campers are encouraged to explore new interests, develop skills, and build lasting friendships, all within the supportive and dynamic environment of Camp Zeke.

The staff of Camp Zeke

Camp Zeke is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers, which begins with their dedicated and highly qualified staff. Here is an overview of their staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, qualifications, and training protocols:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: Camp Zeke maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care. Typically, the ratio is one staff member for every four to six campers, which allows us to provide a personalized and responsive camping experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: They recruit staff from a variety of sources, including top universities, referrals from educational professionals, and specialized job fairs focusing on youth education and recreation.
Selection Process: Candidates go through a rigorous selection process that includes multiple interviews, reference checks, and background checks to ensure they are not only skilled but also passionate about child development and education.
Qualifications: Staff members are often pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, recreation management, or related fields. Many of their counselors are also former campers who are intimately familiar with the camp’s culture and values.

Training and Certifications

Pre-Camp Training: All staff members undergo comprehensive pre-camp training that covers their camp philosophy, emergency procedures, behavior management techniques, and activity leadership.
Certifications: It is mandatory for all staff to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additionally, staff involved in specific activities like swimming or rock climbing hold relevant certifications, such as lifeguarding or wilderness first responder, to ensure they are well-prepared to manage any situation that arises in their specific activity areas.
Ongoing Education: Throughout the camping season, they hold regular training sessions to refine skills, update procedures, and address any emerging needs or issues.

Camp Zeke’s staff is not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to creating a nurturing environment where young people can thrive. Their focus on training and proper staff-to-camper ratios ensures that each camper enjoys a safe, fun, and educational experience at Camp Zeke.

Safety and Health in Camp Zeke

At Camp Zeke, the safety and health of their campers and staff are paramount. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and maintain excellent on-site health facilities to ensure a secure and healthy camp environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Drills: Regularly scheduled drills ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures, including fire drills, weather-related drills, and other emergency response actions.
Safety Guidelines: All activities are conducted under strict safety guidelines, with appropriate gear and supervision, to prevent accidents. Safety rules are clearly communicated to campers on the first day and reinforced throughout their stay.
Activity Supervision: Each activity is overseen by staff members with specific training and certifications relevant to the activity, ensuring that best practices are followed at all times.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Zeke is equipped with a well-staffed health center that operates 24/7. Their health center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and an on-call physician, capable of addressing a wide range of medical issues that might arise during camp.
Medication Management: They have strict protocols for storing and administering medications. All medications are kept securely in the health center and distributed by the medical staff according to the prescribing doctor’s instructions.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: Camp Zeke has developed detailed emergency action plans for a variety of scenarios, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other urgent situations. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication: In the event of an emergency, timely and clear communication with parents and guardians is a priority. They have systems in place to quickly disseminate information and updates through multiple channels.
Local Collaborations: They maintain strong relationships with local emergency services, hospitals, and other health facilities. This collaboration ensures rapid response times and additional medical support if needed.

Camp Zeke’s proactive approach to safety and health is designed to prevent incidents and ensure swift, effective responses to any situations that might occur. Their goal is to create a safe and positive environment where campers can enjoy their activities without worry, knowing that their well-being is their top priority.

Cost and Registration in Camp Zeke

Camp Zeke offers a transparent and inclusive approach to costs, registration, and financial aid to ensure that as many children as possible can enjoy their enriching camp experience. Here’s a detailed overview of their cost structure, registration process, and financial support options:

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attendance at Camp Zeke covers all aspects of the camp experience including accommodation, all meals and snacks, daily activities, equipment, 24/7 on-site health care, and transportation for off-site excursions. There are no hidden fees, and all camp essentials are included in the initial cost.
Pricing Structure: Costs vary depending on the length of the stay and the type of program selected. For example, one-week sessions may cost significantly less than a full summer program.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration can be completed online through their website. The process includes filling out necessary forms, providing medical information, and submitting a deposit to secure a spot.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Typically, deadlines for summer sessions close one month prior to the start date.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Zeke offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of the camp. Families can choose to pay in installments over several months leading up to the summer.
Refunds and Cancellation: Refunds are available up to a certain date, which is usually about two months before the camp session begins. After this date, refunds may only be given for medical reasons or family emergencies, with appropriate documentation.
Cancellation Policy: Any cancellations must be made in writing. The initial deposit is typically non-refundable to cover administrative costs.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Availability: Camp Zeke is committed to making camp accessible for all families, regardless of financial circumstances. They offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options based on need.
Application Process: To apply for financial aid, families must complete a financial aid application and submit it along with the required supporting documents, such as proof of income.
Allocation: Financial aid is awarded on a case-by-case basis, with consideration given to both need and the availability of funds.

At Camp Zeke, they believe that financial constraints should not prevent a child from experiencing the joys and benefits of summer camp. They strive to provide a range of options to support families in making this valuable investment in their child’s development.

Cost:

Full Season (6 weeks) – $10,100
Session 1 (3 weeks) – $5,800
Session 2 (3 weeks) – $5,800
Taste of Zeke (1 week) – $2,100

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Zeke

At Camp Zeke, they ensure that both parents and campers are well-prepared for the camp experience. Here’s a guide on what to pack, understand the camp’s rules and policies, and some tips for first-time campers and their parents to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Packing List

To make sure campers have everything they need, here’s a suggested packing list:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for a week (campers can do laundry for longer stays), including t-shirts, shorts, pants, undergarments, and socks. Also include a swimsuit, a hat, and a jacket for cooler evenings.
Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, and waterproof boots for rainy days or outdoor activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first aid kit.
Other Essentials: Water bottle, flashlight, sunglasses, and any necessary medications (with clear instructions for administration).
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a disposable camera (if desired, since electronic devices may be restricted).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To ensure that campers fully engage with their surroundings and each other, the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices is typically restricted. These devices may be allowed at certain times and places determined by the camp’s policy.
Visitation: Parents are encouraged to visit mainly during designated visiting days to minimize disruptions to the camp program and to help campers adjust to camp life.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for others, participation in scheduled activities, and adherence to camp safety protocols are expected from all campers.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Engage Fully: Dive into the activities, make new friends, and try things you’ve never done before.
- Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or have any issues, talk to your counselor. They are there to help you have the best experience possible.
For Parents:
- Stay Positive: When discussing camp, focus on the exciting opportunities and experiences ahead. Your enthusiasm will be contagious!
- Pack Smart: Label all belongings with your child’s name and check the packing list provided by the camp to ensure nothing essential is forgotten.
- Communication: Set up expectations with your child about how often you will communicate during their time at camp, keeping in mind the camp’s policies on phone and internet use.

By preparing adequately and understanding what to expect, both campers and parents can look forward to a successful and enjoyable camp experience at Camp Zeke.

Camp Zeke offers a unique and enriching experience that nurtures the physical, emotional, and social growth of every camper. With its wide array of activities, comprehensive safety protocols, and supportive community environment, Camp Zeke is an ideal place for young people to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lifelong friendships. Whether engaging in thrilling outdoor adventures, exploring creative arts, or participating in wellness activities, campers at Camp Zeke are encouraged to grow and challenge themselves in a safe and fun setting.

The staff’s dedication to creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere ensures that each camper feels valued and supported throughout their stay. Additionally, the commitment to affordability and accessibility through scholarships and financial aid programs demonstrates Camp Zeke’s dedication to making the camp experience available to all.