What a terrific visit I had at the New York YMCA Camp in Huguenot, NY. Two of our Springfield College YMCA Studies students are working there for the summer and they are truly having a unique and transformational experience. My hat is off to YMCA of Greater New York CEO Jack Lund with his commitment to provide the children and teens of New York City a YMCA connection, whether in the city or the outdoors, and he is clearly making it happen at the Greenkill, Talcott and McAlister locations which make up the New York YMCA Camp complex. And the person who inspires the magic on this beautiful property is Executive Director Wheaton Griffin with his dedicated staff. What I observed were youngsters from all of the boroughs of New York, representing the diversity that New York is known for. While most of these children have never spent time in the out of doors before, they were clearly totally engaged in all that the camp offers. During my few hours there I saw horseback riding, a group hiking into the deep forest for an overnight camping trip, farm animals to take care, a large well maintained garden, canoes/kayaks, swimming, archery, high ropes, sports, music, dance, Arts & Crafts, singing, laughter, friendship and a respect for the raising and lowering of the American Flag. What comes across is the commitment the counselors have for the campers to ensure that they are nurtured in a caring and respectful environment, one that provides the growth opportunities to change and impact lives in a positive direction. Congratulations to the New York Y for its commitment to children, some of whom who have few opportunities in life but making sure that they can grow up with the same dreams and hopes of the future as anyone else!
Posted on: Fri, 01 Aug 2014 01:16:56 +0000