Welcome to YMCA Camp Kresge, nestled in the serene landscapes of White Haven, Pennsylvania. Located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains near beautiful natural landmarks like Hickory Run State Park, Camp Kresge offers a picturesque setting for campers to explore and grow.
Since its inception, YMCA Camp Kresge has been dedicated to fostering a supportive, nurturing environment where young people can develop their skills and build lasting friendships. The camp is part of the broader YMCA mission, which is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
YMCA Camp Kresge welcomes boys and girls across various age groups, providing a dynamic and inclusive camping experience. Their programs are thoughtfully designed to cater to different age levels, ensuring that each camper receives age-appropriate challenges and support.
Whether it’s through team sports, outdoor adventures, or creative arts, YMCA Camp Kresge embodies a philosophy of holistic development, aiming to strengthen the character of their youth by teaching the values of responsibility, respect, and leadership. Join us for a summer of adventure and self-discovery in the breathtaking Pocono Mountains!
Programs Offered by YMCA Camp Kresge
YMCA Camp Kresge offers a variety of engaging programs designed to cater to different interests and age groups, with session lengths ranging from one week to an entire summer, providing flexibility for families and varied experiences for campers.
Programs Offered
- Traditional Camp:
- Duration: One or two-week sessions
- This program includes a mix of activities like swimming, canoeing, archery, and campfires. It’s designed to give campers a classic summer camp experience, fostering personal growth and camaraderie among peers.
- Adventure Camp:
- Duration: Two-week sessions
- Focused on outdoor skills and wilderness adventures, this program might include hiking, overnight camping trips, and environmental education, perfect for the nature-loving camper.
- Specialty Camps:
- Duration: One-week sessions
- Campers can choose from a variety of specialty camps based on their interests:
- Arts Camp: Focuses on creative arts, crafts, and performance.
- Sports Camp: Various sports activities including soccer, basketball, and water sports.
- Science Camp: Engages campers in experiments, STEM activities, and learning about the natural world.
Typical Daily Schedule
- 7:30 AM: Wake Up
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast
- 9:00 AM: Morning Activities (e.g., hiking, arts and crafts)
- 12:00 PM: Lunch
- 1:00 PM: Quiet Time/Rest
- 2:00 PM: Afternoon Activities (specialty activities like science projects or sports)
- 5:00 PM: Free Time
- 6:00 PM: Dinner
- 7:00 PM: Evening Activities (e.g., campfire, talent show)
- 9:00 PM: Cabin Time (reflection and preparation for bed)
- 10:00 PM: Lights Out
This structured schedule ensures that each day is packed with fun and educational activities, while also providing ample downtime for rest and socialization, all within the supportive and enriching environment of YMCA Camp Kresge.
Accommodations in YMCA Camp Kresge
At YMCA Camp Kresge, accommodations are thoughtfully designed to ensure a comfortable and authentic camping experience for all campers, promoting both a sense of community and respect for privacy.
Sleeping Arrangements
- Cabins:
- Camp Kresge primarily offers cabin accommodations, which house campers in groups to foster a community atmosphere. These cabins are rustic yet comfortable, equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. Each cabin typically houses 8-12 campers along with one or two counselors, ensuring adequate supervision and safety.
- Camp Kresge primarily offers cabin accommodations, which house campers in groups to foster a community atmosphere. These cabins are rustic yet comfortable, equipped with bunk beds and storage areas for personal belongings. Each cabin typically houses 8-12 campers along with one or two counselors, ensuring adequate supervision and safety.
- Tents:
- For adventure camps or specific programs that include overnight trips, tents are used. These are usually pitched in designated camping areas within the campgrounds, providing a more immersive nature experience.
- For adventure camps or specific programs that include overnight trips, tents are used. These are usually pitched in designated camping areas within the campgrounds, providing a more immersive nature experience.
- Dorms:
- Some specialized programs or retreats for older campers or adults may use dormitory-style accommodations that include multiple beds in a large room, offering a slightly different experience compared to traditional cabins.
Dining Options
- Meal Plans:
- YMCA Camp Kresge offers a full meal plan that includes three balanced meals per day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are served in a communal dining hall, which not only serves as a place to eat but also as a gathering spot for the camp community.
- YMCA Camp Kresge offers a full meal plan that includes three balanced meals per day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are served in a communal dining hall, which not only serves as a place to eat but also as a gathering spot for the camp community.
- Dietary Accommodations:
- Understanding the importance of accommodating various dietary needs, Camp Kresge provides options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive diets upon request. The camp aims to ensure that all campers have healthy and enjoyable meal options that suit their needs.
Bathroom and Shower Facilities
- Bathrooms and showers are centrally located and easily accessible from all living areas. Facilities are divided by gender and are equipped with multiple stalls and shower units to accommodate the camp population efficiently.
- The camp maintains high standards of cleanliness and hygiene, with daily cleaning routines and schedules to ensure facilities are sanitary and comfortable for all users.
Overall, YMCA Camp Kresge is committed to making sure that every camper’s stay is as comfortable as possible, with living and dining accommodations that help create a safe, enjoyable, and memorable camping experience.
Activities in YMCA Camp Kresge
YMCA Camp Kresge provides a diverse range of activities designed to engage campers of all ages, allowing them to explore new interests, develop skills, and enjoy the camaraderie of group activities. Additionally, the camp hosts special events and upholds traditions that enhance the camp experience and foster a sense of community among participants.
List of Activities Offered
- Water Sports: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding in the camp’s lake.
- Land Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery.
- Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, camping skills, orienteering, and nature walks.
- Creative Arts: Crafts, painting, pottery, and drama workshops.
- Team-Building Exercises: Rope courses, group challenges, and trust activities.
Special Events or Traditions
- Opening Bonfire:
- A tradition that marks the start of each session, where campers gather around a bonfire for introductions, camp songs, and an overview of what their session will entail. It’s a time for campers to bond and set the tone for their camp experience.
- A tradition that marks the start of each session, where campers gather around a bonfire for introductions, camp songs, and an overview of what their session will entail. It’s a time for campers to bond and set the tone for their camp experience.
- Color Wars:
- An all-camp event where campers are divided into teams to compete in various sports, puzzles, and creative challenges. It’s a highlight for many campers, full of spirit and friendly competition.
- An all-camp event where campers are divided into teams to compete in various sports, puzzles, and creative challenges. It’s a highlight for many campers, full of spirit and friendly competition.
- Talent Show:
- Held towards the end of each session, this event allows campers to showcase their talents, whether it be in music, dance, magic, or comedy, fostering an environment of support and celebration of diverse skills.
- Held towards the end of each session, this event allows campers to showcase their talents, whether it be in music, dance, magic, or comedy, fostering an environment of support and celebration of diverse skills.
- Camp Kresge Carnival:
- A fun-filled afternoon with games, snacks, and activities where campers can relax and enjoy a festive atmosphere.
Skill Development Opportunities
- Leadership Programs:
- Older campers have the opportunity to participate in leadership training programs, which prepare them for roles such as camp counselors or activity leaders. These programs focus on responsibility, team management, and effective communication.
- Older campers have the opportunity to participate in leadership training programs, which prepare them for roles such as camp counselors or activity leaders. These programs focus on responsibility, team management, and effective communication.
- Environmental Education:
- Through guided nature walks and sustainability projects, campers learn about local ecology, conservation practices, and the importance of environmental stewardship.
- Through guided nature walks and sustainability projects, campers learn about local ecology, conservation practices, and the importance of environmental stewardship.
- Personal Growth Workshops:
- Workshops on topics such as resilience, conflict resolution, and self-confidence help campers develop soft skills that are beneficial both in and outside of camp.
YMCA Camp Kresge is dedicated to providing a holistic experience that balances fun and learning, ensuring that each camper leaves with not just memories but also new skills and a stronger sense of self.
The staff of YMCA Camp Kresge
YMCA Camp Kresge is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all campers, facilitated by a well-trained and dedicated staff. Here’s an overview of the staffing structure, the hiring process, and the qualifications and training that staff members must have.
Staff-to-Camper Ratio
- YMCA Camp Kresge maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and supervision. Typically, the camp adheres to a ratio of approximately 1 staff member for every 8 campers. This ratio allows staff to effectively monitor and engage with campers, ensuring safety and a high-quality camp experience.
Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications
- Recruitment:
- The hiring process begins with a thorough recruitment phase where potential staff members are sourced from a variety of places, including local universities, community job boards, and referrals from current or former staff.
- The hiring process begins with a thorough recruitment phase where potential staff members are sourced from a variety of places, including local universities, community job boards, and referrals from current or former staff.
- Interviews and Background Checks:
- Candidates undergo rigorous interviews and are required to provide references. Comprehensive background checks are conducted to ensure the safety and security of all campers, which include criminal records checks, and where applicable, checks against child abuse registries.
- Candidates undergo rigorous interviews and are required to provide references. Comprehensive background checks are conducted to ensure the safety and security of all campers, which include criminal records checks, and where applicable, checks against child abuse registries.
- Qualifications:
- Staff are typically required to have some experience in child care or education fields. Many are education majors or have backgrounds in sports, arts, or sciences, depending on the activities they will lead. A passion for working with children and a strong character fit with the camp’s mission are crucial.
Training and Certifications
- Pre-Camp Training:
- Before the camp season starts, all staff undergo intensive pre-camp training. This includes operational protocols, emergency response drills, behavior management techniques, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
- Before the camp season starts, all staff undergo intensive pre-camp training. This includes operational protocols, emergency response drills, behavior management techniques, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
- CPR and First Aid:
- All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are often provided as part of the staff training if they do not already possess them upon hiring.
- All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. These certifications are often provided as part of the staff training if they do not already possess them upon hiring.
- Specialized Training:
- Depending on their roles, staff may also receive additional certifications such as lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or specific activity certifications (e.g., archery instructors, rope course facilitators).
- Depending on their roles, staff may also receive additional certifications such as lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or specific activity certifications (e.g., archery instructors, rope course facilitators).
- Ongoing Training:
- Training is ongoing throughout the camp season to refresh important skills and to continuously improve the camp program based on feedback and evolving best practices.
YMCA Camp Kresge’s commitment to a rigorous hiring and training process ensures that all staff are not only qualified but also dedicated to creating a nurturing and safe environment where campers can thrive.
Safety and Health in YMCA Camp Kresge
Safety and health are top priorities at YMCA Camp Kresge, ensuring that every camper enjoys a secure and caring environment. The camp has established comprehensive safety protocols, maintains well-equipped on-site health facilities, and enforces strict policies for handling emergencies.
Safety Protocols and Procedures
- Regular Safety Drills:
- Campers and staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown procedures, to ensure everyone knows how to respond in various emergency scenarios.
- Campers and staff participate in regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown procedures, to ensure everyone knows how to respond in various emergency scenarios.
- Activity-Specific Safety Rules:
- Each activity at camp, whether it’s swimming or archery, has specific safety rules that are strictly enforced. Staff are trained to oversee all activities with these rules in mind to prevent accidents.
- Each activity at camp, whether it’s swimming or archery, has specific safety rules that are strictly enforced. Staff are trained to oversee all activities with these rules in mind to prevent accidents.
- Supervised Activities:
- All activities are supervised by trained staff members who ensure that campers are engaging in activities safely and responsibly.
- All activities are supervised by trained staff members who ensure that campers are engaging in activities safely and responsibly.
- Nighttime Security:
- Security measures are heightened during nighttime, with staff members assigned to specific areas to monitor and assist campers as needed.
On-Site Health Facilities and Staff
- Health Center:
- YMCA Camp Kresge is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by qualified health care professionals, including nurses and, at times, a visiting doctor. The center is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with the necessary medical supplies and medications.
- YMCA Camp Kresge is equipped with an on-site health center staffed by qualified health care professionals, including nurses and, at times, a visiting doctor. The center is prepared to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with the necessary medical supplies and medications.
- Staff Qualifications:
- Health center staff are required to have appropriate medical certifications, which typically include Registered Nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). All health staff are certified in CPR and First Aid.
- Health center staff are required to have appropriate medical certifications, which typically include Registered Nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). All health staff are certified in CPR and First Aid.
- Availability:
- The health center is available to campers and staff 24/7, ensuring that medical care is always accessible.
Policies on Handling Emergencies
- Immediate Response Plan:
- In case of an emergency, camp staff follow a predefined emergency response plan which includes initial assessment, immediate intervention, and necessary escalation to local emergency services.
- In case of an emergency, camp staff follow a predefined emergency response plan which includes initial assessment, immediate intervention, and necessary escalation to local emergency services.
- Communication with Parents:
- Parents are immediately notified in the event of any serious injury or health issue affecting their child. The camp maintains updated contact information for this purpose.
- Parents are immediately notified in the event of any serious injury or health issue affecting their child. The camp maintains updated contact information for this purpose.
- Coordination with Local Emergency Services:
- The camp has established relationships with local emergency services (fire department, police, hospitals) to ensure a quick response when external assistance is needed. Regular meetings and coordination drills help maintain these critical relationships.
- The camp has established relationships with local emergency services (fire department, police, hospitals) to ensure a quick response when external assistance is needed. Regular meetings and coordination drills help maintain these critical relationships.
- Evacuation Procedures:
- In the event of a situation requiring evacuation, such as a natural disaster, the camp has detailed evacuation procedures tailored to different scenarios. Evacuation routes and assembly points are well-marked and communicated to both campers and staff.
Through these measures, YMCA Camp Kresge ensures that every aspect of camper safety and health is addressed, providing peace of mind to parents and a safe environment for campers to enjoy their time at camp.
Cost and Registration in YMCA Camp Kresge
At YMCA Camp Kresge, the goal is to provide an enriching and accessible camp experience for all children. The camp offers a detailed cost structure, an easy registration process, and supportive financial options to accommodate diverse family needs.
Cost of Attendance
- Cost:
- The cost of attending YMCA Camp Kresge varies depending on the type of camp program and the duration. Prices typically range from $400 to $800 per week. The cost includes all lodging, meals, activities, and any special programming.
- The cost of attending YMCA Camp Kresge varies depending on the type of camp program and the duration. Prices typically range from $400 to $800 per week. The cost includes all lodging, meals, activities, and any special programming.
- What It Includes:
- The fee covers full accommodation in cabins or dorms, three daily meals, all camp activities, and access to all camp facilities and equipment. There are no additional required fees for camp activities, though there might be optional extras like camp merchandise or special outings.
Registration Process and Deadlines
- How to Register:
- Registration can be completed online. The process involves filling out necessary forms, providing medical information, and selecting preferred sessions and activities.
- Registration can be completed online. The process involves filling out necessary forms, providing medical information, and selecting preferred sessions and activities.
- Deadlines:
- Early registration typically opens in January and offers a discount for early birds. Regular registration continues as long as spots are available, but it’s advisable to register by early spring to secure a place due to high demand.
Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies
- Payment Plans:
- YMCA Camp Kresge 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.
- YMCA Camp Kresge 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 Cancellations:
- In case of cancellation, refunds are available up to a month before the camp start date, minus a non-refundable deposit (typically about $50-$100). If the camp has to cancel a session for any reason, such as due to health and safety concerns, a full refund including the deposit is typically offered.
- In case of cancellation, refunds are available up to a month before the camp start date, minus a non-refundable deposit (typically about $50-$100). If the camp has to cancel a session for any reason, such as due to health and safety concerns, a full refund including the deposit is typically offered.
- Cancellation Insurance:
- Families have the option to purchase cancellation insurance at the time of registration, which allows for a full refund up to the day before camp begins under most circumstances.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Scholarships:
- YMCA Camp Kresge is committed to making camp accessible to all children and offers scholarships based on financial need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees.
- YMCA Camp Kresge is committed to making camp accessible to all children and offers scholarships based on financial need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees.
- How to Apply for Scholarships:
- Applications for financial aid can be completed concurrently with the camp registration. Families need to provide proof of income and a short statement of need. The camp encourages early application for financial aid as funds are limited.
YMCA Camp Kresge strives to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent any child from enjoying a summer camp experience. With various financial assistance options and a clear cost structure, families can plan and participate in a valuable camp experience.
Parent and Camper Preparation in YMCA Camp Kresge
Preparing for a stay at YMCA Camp Kresge is an exciting time for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is ready for the upcoming camp experience, here’s a guide on what to pack, understand the camp’s rules and policies, and some helpful tips for first-time campers and their parents.
Packing List
- Clothing:
- Comfortable clothing suitable for daily activities (t-shirts, shorts, etc.)
- Warm layers for cooler evenings (sweatshirts, long pants)
- Rain gear (raincoat, waterproof footwear)
- Swimwear and beach towels
- Sturdy shoes for hiking and general use
- Sandals with heel straps (no flip-flops)
- A hat and sunglasses for sun protection
- Bedding and Toiletries:
- Sleeping bag or bed linens and a pillow
- Towel for showering and extra for swimming
- Personal toiletry items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, etc.)
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Miscellaneous:
- Water bottle to stay hydrated
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
- Any necessary medications with clear instructions
Rules and Policies
- Technology Use:
- To maximize engagement and interaction, YMCA Camp Kresge has a no-electronics policy. Campers are encouraged to disconnect from phones, tablets, and other electronic devices during their stay.
- To maximize engagement and interaction, YMCA Camp Kresge has a no-electronics policy. Campers are encouraged to disconnect from phones, tablets, and other electronic devices during their stay.
- Visitation:
- Parents are generally encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to help maintain the camp schedule and dynamics. Details about visiting days and times are provided before the camp session begins.
- Parents are generally encouraged to visit only on designated visiting days to help maintain the camp schedule and dynamics. Details about visiting days and times are provided before the camp session begins.
- Behavioral Expectations:
- The camp maintains a strict policy regarding respect, inclusion, and cooperation. Any form of bullying or disrespectful behavior is not tolerated.
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.
- Remember that it’s okay to feel homesick. Most campers feel this way at some point, and it’s normal. Staff are there to help and support you through any tough times.
- For Parents:
- Prepare your child by talking about what camp will be like focusing on exciting activities and new friendships.
- Write letters or send care packages to your child during their stay to keep in touch and boost their spirits.
- Trust the camp staff. They are trained to ensure that your child has a safe, educational, and fun experience at camp.
By following these preparation tips and packing appropriately, both campers and parents can feel more confident and ready for a successful camp experience at YMCA Camp Kresge.
YMCA Camp Kresge offers a wonderful blend of adventure, camaraderie, and personal growth, all nestled within the beautiful setting of the Pocono Mountains. With its diverse range of programs and activities, Camp Kresge ensures that every camper has the opportunity to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lifelong friends in a safe and supportive environment. The camp’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and nurturing atmosphere is reflected in its thoughtful accommodations, comprehensive safety protocols, and dedicated staff who go above and beyond to make each summer unforgettable.
Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned veteran, YMCA Camp Kresge welcomes you to join a community that celebrates diversity, encourages learning, and promotes respect for oneself and others. Here, the spirit of adventure thrives, and the memories made last a lifetime. Join us at YMCA Camp Kresge for an extraordinary summer experience that will inspire and delight in every way.