I just watched the official video my son brought home from his session at Ridgecrest Camp for Boys. While he actually finished camp there a couple of weeks ago, I just now had time to watch the video. As I watched it, I enjoyed seeing the excitement in his eyes as he explains certain things. I see great images of games, swimming, canoeing, mountain biking, target shooting, sports and all kinds of fun. Anyone watching it can see the fun. What you can also see, if you look closely, is the incredible example set for the campers by the staff.
Working summer camp staff is not for everyone. Many camp jobs require creativity, energy and unlimited patience. These folks do not sign up to deal with homesickness or trouble makers, yet that comes with the job. Camp staff, at least at Ridgecrest, do a tremendous job of stepping in for parents by taking care of injuries, dealing with upset stomachs and ensuring the campers do not get in too much trouble.
While at camp, the boys take part in skill development in areas such as sports, horse back riding, swimming and crafts. They also do crazy games like Sock War, Gold Rush, Bedlam Ball, Pirates of the Shawnee Nation and a plethora of other fun activities. Field trips dot the schedule for each tribe to places like Sliding Rock, Fun Depot, tubing, white water rafting and other area attractions.
Most importantly, while at camp, campers get to hang out with a staff that care about them. I can think of no better influence on my son when he is away from me. Camp leadership does a tremendous job of selecting those that will serve each summer.
I cannot help, as I watch the video, of thinking back to the years I served on a camp staff. Faces and names and activities flash through my mind. Many of the staff from those days, and even several campers, have become good friends of mine. Those relationships are among the most important in my life, and I am blessed to have met those guys.
To be honest, camp is not cheap. As with many things, a quality camp program can seem expensive. That said, there is no more important use of our funds each year than sending my kids to camp. Our daughter attends for the first time next week, and I know she will have a great time. The value of camp is indescribable. In my mind there is no doubt: Camp Changes Lives. Send your child to camp-you won't regret it.
http://www.ridgecrestcamps.com/index.php
