Camp Notre Dame is nestled in the scenic region of Fairview, Pennsylvania, near the shores of Lake Erie, offering a picturesque backdrop for camp activities. Established with a vision to nurture young minds in a supportive environment, the camp has been a place of adventure, learning, and growth for several decades.

The mission of Camp Notre Dame is to foster the development of youth through engaging in activities that promote teamwork, self-discovery, and respect for others. By encouraging campers to explore their talents and build relationships, the camp aims to contribute positively to their moral and social development.

Catering to boys and girls from a variety of age groups, Camp Notre Dame offers a diverse range of programs that are tailored to different interests and developmental stages. Whether it’s through sports, arts, or outdoor exploration, the camp provides a safe and vibrant community where every child can thrive and discover new passions.

Programs Offered by Camp Notre Dame

Camp Notre Dame offers a variety of programs designed to cater to the diverse interests and developmental needs of its campers. Here is an overview of the programs, session lengths, specialty offerings, and a typical daily schedule:

Programs Offered

Traditional Camp Programs: These are the core offerings at Camp Notre Dame, featuring a mix of activities such as swimming, hiking, canoeing, crafts, and team sports. These programs aim to promote personal growth, teamwork, and outdoor skills.

Specialty Camps:

Arts Camp: Focuses on creativity and expression through visual arts, drama, music, and dance. Campers work on projects and performances throughout their session.
Sports Camp: Emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and healthy competition in sports like soccer, basketball, volleyball, and more.
Science Camp: Engages campers with hands-on experiments, environmental education, and explorations in fields like biology, chemistry, and physics.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Sessions: Designed for younger campers or those new to the camp experience, offering a taste of various activities.
Two-Week Sessions: Provide a deeper dive into specific interests with more intensive skill development and bonding opportunities.
Full Summer Options: Allow campers to experience a comprehensive range of activities and personal development over the course of several weeks.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake up and cabin clean-up
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activities (session-specific programs or general camp activities)
12:00 PM: Lunch
1:00 PM: Rest hour
2:00 PM: Afternoon activities (free choice of sports, arts, or special workshops)
5:00 PM: Free time or cabin activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening program (campfires, talent shows, night hikes)
9:00 PM: Cabin time and preparation for bed
10:00 PM: Lights out

This schedule is structured to balance active engagement with adequate rest, ensuring that campers enjoy a full, enriching camp experience while also having downtime to relax and recharge.

Accommodations in Camp Notre Dame

Camp Notre Dame provides a range of accommodations designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all participants:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Campers are housed in cozy, rustic cabins that are designed to blend with the natural surroundings. Each cabin houses between 8 to 12 campers along with 1 or 2 counselors, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings.
Tents: For more adventurous sessions, such as specific wilderness programs, campers have the opportunity to sleep in tents. This allows them to fully engage with the outdoor experience, learning to set up their tents and live more directly in nature.
Dormitory Style: Certain specialty camps or larger group activities may utilize dormitory-style accommodations, providing a slightly more structured sleeping environment with communal areas for social interaction.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Notre Dame offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three balanced meals per day, prepared by experienced kitchen staff. The dining hall is a communal space where campers gather to eat and share their daily experiences.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, the camp provides options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive diets. Parents can specify any dietary restrictions during the registration process, ensuring that all campers have healthy and suitable meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom Facilities: Bathrooms are conveniently located near each cabin and dormitory, equipped with flush toilets and sinks. The facilities are gender-segregated and regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure hygiene and comfort.
Shower Facilities: Separate shower facilities are available, providing hot and cold water. These facilities are also gender-segregated and designed to offer privacy and convenience for all campers.

Overall, Camp Notre Dame’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to enhance the camping experience, ensuring safety, comfort, and a sense of community among the campers.

Activities in Camp Notre Dame

Camp Notre Dame offers a diverse array of activities that cater to all interests and skill levels, ensuring that every camper has the opportunity to explore new hobbies and develop existing talents. Here is a detailed list of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available at the camp:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised by certified lifeguards, swimming is a popular activity in the camp’s lake or pool.
Hiking: Guided hikes through local trails allow campers to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Crafts: A wide range of craft activities such as pottery, beading, woodworking, and painting.
Team Sports: Including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and baseball, focusing on teamwork and physical fitness.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Water-based activities that teach paddling skills and water safety.
Archery: Instruction in safety and technique, providing a fun and challenging experience.
Nature Workshops: Programs designed to educate campers about local wildlife, conservation, and environmental stewardship.
Drama and Music: Opportunities for campers to engage in performing arts, culminating in performances at the camp’s amphitheater.
Dance: Classes in various styles, encouraging expression and creativity through movement.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around a campfire, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting.
Color Wars: A camp-wide competition where campers are divided into teams to compete in various sports and creative challenges.
Talent Shows: Allowing campers to showcase their talents in front of peers and staff in a supportive environment.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A festive event with games, prizes, and food, celebrating the achievements of campers throughout the summer.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers have the chance to participate in leadership programs, which prepare them for potential roles as counselors or leaders in their communities.
Environmental Education: Through hands-on activities, campers learn about sustainability and environmental impact, equipping them with the knowledge to protect their surroundings.
Artistic Expression: Summer camps are encouraged to develop their artistic skills in visual and performing arts, fostering creativity and confidence.
Sports Clinics: Specialized clinics to improve skills in specific sports, taught by experienced coaches.

Camp Notre Dame is committed to providing a fun, educational, and enriching camp experience through a broad range of activities and special events that promote personal growth, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

The staff of Camp Notre Dame

Camp Notre Dame takes great pride in its dedicated and well-qualified staff, ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all campers. Here’s an overview of the staff structure, hiring practices, and training standards:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Notre Dame maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives personalized attention and care. The ratio typically ranges from 1:6 to 1:8, depending on the age group and activity. This ratio allows for a highly supervised and supportive environment, crucial for both safety and the personal development of campers.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Staff recruitment involves a rigorous selection process. Candidates are typically recruited from educational institutions, leadership programs, and referrals from trusted sources within the community.
Qualifications: Prospective staff members are required to have prior experience in childcare or camp environments, a clean background check, and a genuine passion for working with children. Educational backgrounds in fields related to education, sports, arts, or science are highly valued.
Interviews: Candidates undergo a thorough interview process that assesses their experience, skills, and suitability for the camp environment. This includes scenario-based questions to evaluate their problem-solving and emergency response capabilities.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: All staff members participate in a comprehensive pre-camp training program. This includes sessions on camp policies, child behavior management, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.
CPR and First Aid: All staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are often provided by the camp prior to the start of the season if the staff does not already possess them.
Specialized Training: Staff leading specific activities, such as swimming or archery, must have relevant certifications and training. For example, aquatic supervisors are required to have lifeguard certifications.
Ongoing Education: Camp Notre Dame encourages continuous professional development. Throughout the camp season, additional training sessions are conducted to refine skills and address any emerging needs.

The commitment to a well-trained and qualified staff ensures that Camp Notre Dame not only provides a fun and dynamic environment for campers but also upholds the highest standards of safety and educational quality.

Safety and Health in Camp Notre Dame

Camp Notre Dame is deeply committed to ensuring the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing robust safety protocols, and maintaining well-equipped health facilities. Here’s a detailed look at their safety measures, healthcare provisions, and emergency policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Training: Staff members undergo regular safety training sessions, including emergency response drills and situational awareness to handle various scenarios such as natural disasters, injuries, and other urgent situations.
Activity Safety: Each activity offered at the camp is supervised by staff with specific training and certifications pertinent to the activity, such as lifeguards for swimming or certified instructors for archery and climbing.
Equipment and Facility Checks: All equipment used in activities is regularly inspected and maintained. Facilities also undergo safety checks to ensure they are in good condition and safe for use.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Notre Dame operates a fully equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and, during peak sessions, a visiting doctor.
Capabilities: The health center can handle a variety of medical needs, from treating minor injuries and illnesses to stabilizing more serious conditions before transferring to a hospital.
Medication Management: The health center manages and administers medications for campers, ensuring they receive their prescribed doses at the correct times.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Action Plans: The camp has detailed action plans for various types of emergencies, including severe weather, fire, health emergencies, and more. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Communication Systems: In the event of an emergency, robust communication systems are in place to quickly notify staff and emergency services. Parents are also informed as soon as possible about any serious incidents affecting their children.
Evacuation Procedures: Clear evacuation routes and procedures are established and practiced through regular drills. All campers and staff are familiar with these procedures, ensuring a quick and orderly evacuation when necessary.
Local Hospital Collaboration: The camp maintains strong relationships with local hospitals to ensure that more serious health issues are swiftly and effectively addressed.

The comprehensive safety protocols, well-staffed and equipped health facilities, and carefully formulated emergency policies collectively ensure a safe environment at Camp Notre Dame, allowing campers to enjoy their activities with peace of mind for both them and their parents.

Cost and Registration in Camp Notre Dame

Camp Notre Dame strives to make the camp experience accessible and manageable for families through transparent pricing, an easy registration process, and financial support options. Here are the details regarding the cost of attendance, registration, and financial aid:

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attending Camp Notre Dame typically covers all camp activities, accommodation, meals, and any specialized equipment needed for certain programs. It also includes supervision and guidance by trained staff, as well as access to the camp’s health facilities.
Additional Costs: Some extra costs might be associated with specific specialty camps or optional excursions that are not included in the standard fee. These will be clearly outlined during the registration process.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Parents can register their children through an online platform available on the camp’s website. This platform provides a step-by-step process for submitting camper information and selecting session dates and specialty programs.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot, as some sessions and programs fill up quickly. Specific registration deadlines for each session are listed on the camp’s. Early bird discounts are often available for registrations made several months in advance.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Camp Notre Dame offers flexible payment plans to spread the cost of camp over several months, making it more financially manageable for families.
Refunds: A refund policy is in place, which typically allows for a full or partial refund up to a certain date before the camp session begins. After this date, refunds may be limited to exceptional circumstances.
Cancellation Policies: In case of cancellation by the family, any payments made may be partially refundable depending on the timing of the cancellation. If the camp must cancel a session, such as due to unforeseen circumstances, full refunds are typically issued.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Notre Dame offers a variety of scholarships aimed at reducing the financial barrier for families in need. These scholarships are often merit-based or need-based.
Financial Aid: Need-based financial aid is available and can be applied for through a separate application process. This process includes submitting financial information to assess the level of assistance required.
Community Support Programs: The camp also works with community organizations to provide sponsored camp placements for children who may otherwise be unable to afford the camp experience.

By providing comprehensive information and support, Camp Notre Dame ensures that families can navigate the cost and registration process smoothly, making it possible for more children to enjoy their enriching summer programs.

Camp Notre Dame offers different fees depending on the age group and the length of stay:

Kids Kamp (Ages 4-8):
- Full Week (5 days):
  - First Child: $220
  - Second Child (same family): $200
Overnight Camp (Ages 7-17):
- First Week:
  - First Camper: $390
  - Additional Camper (same family): $300
- Additional Weeks: $300 per camper, per week
- CIT Program (Counselors in Training): $215 (covers the entire cost)

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Notre Dame

Preparing for a stay at Camp Notre Dame involves careful planning to ensure both campers and parents are ready for the upcoming camp experience. Here’s a guide to help with packing, understanding camp rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

Clothing: Pack enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the duration of the stay, including items for warmer days and cooler evenings. Include swimsuits, hats, and sturdy footwear for hiking and sports.
Bedding: Bring a sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, plus a pillow, depending on the accommodation type.
Toiletries: Essential toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and sunscreen. Insect repellent is also recommended.
Personal Items: Water bottles, flashlights, and any necessary personal items like glasses or contact lenses.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and any sports equipment or musical instruments if the camper wishes to use their own during specific activities.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To maximize engagement and interaction, personal electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and gaming systems are typically discouraged or not allowed. This helps campers to connect more with each other and the activities.
Visitation: Parents are usually welcome to visit on designated days to minimize disruptions to the camp schedule and maintain security. Specific visitation policies and times will be provided before the camp session begins.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow behavior guidelines that promote safety, respect, and inclusivity among all camp attendees. Any issues like bullying or misconduct are addressed promptly by staff.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Familiarization: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friends to be made. Encouraging a positive outlook helps reduce any pre-camp anxiety.
Communication: Understand the camp’s communication policy, including how and when you can contact your child. Some camps may encourage letter writing or offer limited phone calls.
Practice Separation: Especially for younger campers, it can be helpful to practice short periods of separation before camp starts, such as sleepovers at a friend’s house.
Packing Together: Involve your child in the packing process to give them a sense of control and anticipation for the activities ahead. This also ensures they know what they’ve packed and where things are.
Setting Expectations: Discuss the camp rules and the importance of following them. Understanding the reasons behind rules like technology restrictions can make them easier to accept.

By preparing adequately and setting the right expectations, both parents and campers can ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience at Camp Notre Dame.

Camp Notre Dame stands out as a beacon of growth, fun, and adventure for young individuals looking to enrich their summer experiences. Nestled in the beautiful surroundings of Fairview, Pennsylvania, the camp offers a myriad of activities tailored to various interests and age groups, fostering development both in skills and personal character. With a dedicated staff, robust safety measures, and a commitment to each camper’s well-being, parents can feel confident about their child’s safety and enrichment.

The camp’s philosophy of nurturing teamwork, respect, and self-discovery is evident in every aspect of its operations, from the thoughtfully designed programs to the comprehensive support structures like scholarships and detailed preparation guides for families. As campers return year after year, Camp Notre Dame continues to cultivate not only skills but lifelong memories and friendships. It truly is a place where summer magic happens, and every child can thrive.