With closed borders, travel restrictions, and uncertainty surrounding overnight camps in BC, summer preparations this year required prayer, creativity, and perseverance. With the help of many individuals, we were able to offer a variety of programs serving campers on the West Coast of the US, and on Bowen. Running two completely new programs simultaneously in two countries, as well as our first youth co-ed overnight program was an adventure to say the least!
For the US Camp programs, Jacob and 3 other staff travelled up and down the west coast to bring camp to families. We started with a Family Camp weekend up at Clear Lake, followed by four, week-long day camp programs. Campers had the opportunity to play familiar camp games like beckon’s wanted, participate in daily lesson study and inspiration, and try new activities like kayaking or zip-lining. Meanwhile, Vanessa and a crew of Canadian staff members ran secular day camp programs for Bowen Islanders. The kids had a great time rock climbing, swimming, going on nature hikes, and playing camp games. We were so grateful for the opportunity to give back to our Bowen community while utilizing our amazing property. In August, we ended the Summer with an all ages co-ed overnight CS program at camp, and a great family camp session. It was a great Summer and one that we will not forget! Here’s a list of the 2021 programs we ran.
- US programs
- California Family Weekend
- Bay Area, CA Youth Day Camp
- Bainbridge Island, WA Youth Day Camp
- Seattle, WA Youth Day Camp
- Portland, OR Youth Day Camp
- Bowen Island CS Program
- Co-ed Overnight Youth Camp!
- Family Camp
- Outdoor Centre Day Camp Programs
- Camp Skills Week
- Nature Explorers’ Week
- Creators’ Week
- Adventure Week
Thank you to those who tried a new program this year, whether in the US or on Bowen Island. Thank you to those who donated time, money, knowledge, homes, backyards, vehicles, meals, and so much more. Thank you to Crystal Lake Camps for making our Family and Youth programs in the United States possible this year by providing insurance. Camp in the States would not have been possible without their help!
And finally, thank you to our extraordinary counsellors, cooks, volunteers, and board members who stepped up to the challenge to make camp a reality this summer. Camp truly is a group effort.
Sincerely,
Jacob and Vanessa
