YMCA CAMP LETTS. PARENT HANDBOOK Before Your Arrival

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1 What to expect YMCA CAMP LETTS PARENT HANDBOOK Before Your Arrival Attending summer camp is a very exciting experience for both campers and parents! It is very natural for both to be a bit anxious and nervous about the camper leaving the comforts of home, adopting new routines of daily activities, and meeting new friends. We want to familiarize you and your campers with our procedures, policies and philosophies in order to minimize the first-day anxiety. We want to take time to explain this and share information with you. Also, take comfort that YMCA Camp Letts has well trained staff, accustomed to making campers feel welcome and at home. Goals of Camp We at Camp Letts have three simple goals for every camper that comes to camp. These goals are: 1. Have fun. 2. Learn something new. 3. Make a friend. Summer Staff Camp Letts recruits highly skilled individuals whose warmth, maturity and companionship will add to your camper s experience. Our diverse summer staff consists of counselors from many different states and countries. All camp staff members go through an extensive screening process including interviews, multiple character references, fingerprinting, FBI and Interpol background checks. Our staff also go through an intensive two week training before campers arrive at camp. Fees All fees are payable as follows: Non-refundable registration fee must accompany the application. The balance of the Camp fee, Camp store, transportation and Add-On activity fees are due two weeks prior to the camper s arrival. Bills are not rendered. Clothing Please send appropriate clothing for your camper, taking into consideration the weather forecast and camp activities. We encourage you to send old clothing to camp as your camper will be in a rugged, natural environment, playing sports, and hiking through the woods. While packing, please review the list of things you are sending to camp with your camper so they know what clothing and personal items are his or hers. Swimwear should be packed on top of your camper s suitcase, because campers will be tested for his or her swimming ability upon arrival to camp. NOTE: LAUNDRY SERVICES ARE NOT AVAILABLE FOR OUR CAMPERS. PLEASE PACK ENOUGH CLOTHING FOR YOUR CAMPER S ENTIRE STAY AT CAMP. What Not to Bring Camp is a natural setting to retreat from electronic technology and to get more in touch with nature and people. Radios, electronic games, cell phones, ipods, MP3 players, CD players, and other electronic devices do not fit into this setting. Camp Letts is not responsible for lost or damaged items from this list. Please leave these at home. Also, please leave firearms, weapons, matches, lighters, knives, tobacco products, expensive items, illegal drugs, and money at home. Cell Phones As our society becomes increasingly more dependent on cell phones, and with the growing abilities of today s cell phones, we ask that campers do not bring cell phones devices with them. Camp is a natural environment, an environment in which cell phones do not fit. When campers focus more on their cell phones rather than the human relationships in front of them, they inhibit one of the goals of camp, to make a friend. Also, with the growing abilities of cell phones, such as the ability to upload videos taken with the phone to the internet, cyber bullying becomes a concern. Cell phones also hinder the camp staff s ability to affectively do their job. When a camper has an issue, and has a cell phone in their possession, their first reaction is to call you, the parent, rather than speak with the counselor who is there. Camp will always arrange for necessary phone calls. We take this cause very seriously, so please do not allow your camper to bring a cell phone to camp. A cell phone found with a camper may be grounds for dismissal. Changing or Cancelling Sessions or Add-On Programs Should it be necessary for you to change or cancel your camper s session, you must submit the request in writing or ed to Camp Letts at least two weeks prior to arrival.

2 Forms to be Completed The following forms MUST be turned into the Camp Letts at least 2 weeks prior to your camper s arrival to camp. 1. Health History and Examination Form a. Health History-Must include immunization history and guardian signature b. Heath Exam-Must be completed within 24 months prior to camp, and include a physician s signature. NOTE: SIGNATURE BY A LICENSED PHYSICIAN AND PARENT IS REQUIRED FOR A CAMPER TO ATTEND CAMP. FOR THE SAFETY OF EVERYONE AT CAMP, CAMPERS WITHOUT THE ABOVE SIGNATURES WILL BE SENT HOME UNTIL SIGNATURES CAN BE SECURED. 2. Participant Waiver 3. Pick-Up Authorization Form 4. Parent-Counselor Confidential Form Camp Store and Store Account The camp store offers many extras, including snacks, clothing, blankets, flashlights, and other amenities. Campers will have a chance to purchase a snack every day after lunch and visit the store several times each week. We encourage campers to put all pocket money into a store account, as cash transactions will only be accepted on Check-in and Check-out days. A minimum of $10 may be added to the camper s store account when your camp fee balance is being paid. Campers are unable to withdrawal money from this account. Any remaining money at the end of each camp session is donated to our Caring for Communities Campaign. This fund enables more children to attend Camp Letts. Special Emotional/Physical Needs If you have any special needs or requests, please let Camp Letts know. The Camp Director and the Behavior Specialist are great resources for any concerns that you may have. We will make every attempt to serve campers who have physical or special emotional needs. Please be thorough and honest when filling out the Parent-Counselor Confidential form so the counselor can be prepared for the arrival of you camper. We have a policy not to accept campers beyond our training or capabilities. Homesickness Homesickness is, above all, a normal feeling. It is the natural result of separating from home and loved ones. In a recent study, nearly 96 percent of all boys and girls who were spending two weeks or more at overnight camp reported some homesickness on at least one day. Almost all children (and grown-ups!) feel homesick when they re away from home. People s feelings simply vary in intensity. (ACA Website) Our staff makes a concerted effort to help campers overcome homesickness by helping them learn to accept the natural feeling of missing family and friends. This is an opportunity to help campers grow, and we train our staff to handle homesickness in constructive ways. With proper handling by staff, campers and parents, it can be overcome, and the camper can make a big stride in growing up. Here are some things that you can do to lessen homesickness: Keep frequent letters cheery and newsy in such a way that they will not make your camper feel homesick. You can even mail a letter to your camper on the Thursday before they arrive so they receive mail in the first few days of camp. Do not say that you cannot get along without them, or ask about homesickness. PLEASE SEE OUR SECTION ON MAIL. Try to have your camper do overnights at friends house before coming to camp. Pack a personal item from home. Do not tell your camper that you will come and pick him or her up if it is not fun. Do not bribe your campers by promising something valuable if he or she makes it through camp. This sends the wrong message about camp! Going to camp fosters confidence and independence, and can be an important developmental milestone. If there is instability at home, or the camper is very anxious, please contact Camp Letts so that we may prepare our counselors and Behavior Specialist. Help your camper think of things that he or she can do to cope with feelings of homesickness. Bedwetting Our staff is trained to handle bedwetting discreetly, working with your child one-on-one. Please notify Camp Letts in advance if your camper is prone to bedwetting. Campers should be instructed to ask their counselors for help, and every effort will be made to prevent accidents. Any bedding, wet or soiled due to bedwetting, will be laundered and returned discretely to the camper before Siesta. Check-In While at Camp Parents are encouraged to bring their camper to meet the camp staff and help the camper settle into the cabin. Time: 1:00-3:00 PM on Sunday of your camp session. (Except for Try-Out 2 and Try Out 4 which Check-In is on Wednesday) Location: Dining Hall NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT PLAN ON ARRIVING TO CAMP BEFORE 1:00 PM. THE CAMP STAFF WILL BE MAKING FINAL PREPERATIONS, AND WE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO FOCUS ON CHECKING IN CAMPERS UNTIL 1:00 PM.

3 Cabin Assignments Campers live in separate boy or girl, age-appropriate lodging groups with their counselors. One counselor is assigned to every five or six campers. All girls cabins have indoor plumbing. All boys cabins have indoor plumbing as well, except for the oldest teens (13 and up). These campers live in the Commodore Crew up in our Rustic Village under the trees. They use the bathrooms in our nearby pool house and shower in our main shower house, attached to the Dining Hall. We allow for one bunkmate request per camper and both campers must make the matching request. Bunkmate requests must be within one year of each other in age and the older camper will always move to a younger cabin if necessary. We will do our best, however, bunkmate requests cannot be guaranteed. If you find during check-in that your bunkmate request did not happen, please see the Resident Camp Director and he or she will try to make changes. If changes cannot be made, please note that one of the goals of camp is to make a new friend. Please note that cabin assignments are made approximately 5 days before the start of the session. If you do have bunkmate requests, please let us know before then. Swimming Safety Program All campers must take a swim evaluation test during the opening day of the session to demonstrate their swimming ability. This helps the staff establish the safest areas in which campers may swim or boat. All campers who receive our beginning band color (red) will be required to participate in our Swimming Safety Program. The goal of the Swimming Safety Program is to help each camper reach the second swim level (yellow) where they need to demonstrate basic life saving skills. There is no additional cost for participating in the Swimming Safety Program. Parents may waive their camper out of these lessons. Activities Campers will sign up to participate in activities while at camp. These are emphasis areas in which your camper may chose to strengthen his or her skills. There are 2 activity periods per day and all activities run for 5 days. There are more activities at Camp Letts than your camper can participate during a session. Also, it is unavoidable that very popular activities must turn away several campers. Please do not be disappointed if your camper does not participate in everything he or she desires, but encourage them to look forward to another year when they may participate in new activities. Preregistering is only accepted for paid Add-Ons. Add-Ons Add-On programs are those programs that should be preregistered for before camp to ensure your campers get a space in the class. These are additional camp activities that campers can sign up for at an additional cost. These activities take place during the regular activity periods. NOTE for 2014 you may only sign up for one Add-On activity. Equestrian Center The Equestrian Center offers several different programs throughout the summer, including Trail Rides and Horse Masters. All campers enrolled in the Horse Masters Program will take a riding test the first Monday of the session to assess his or her riding abilities and placed in the appropriate Horse Masters Program level. Depending on the program your camper is enrolled in depends on the required riding gear you must pack. Trail Rides: Must have long pants (no shorts) and closed heel shoes (no flip-flops, sandals, clogs, etc.) Tennis shoes or sneakers are acceptable. Horse Masters: Must have long pants (jeans, breeches, jods, etc.) Footwear must have at least a 1/2 inch heel and must be closed toe and closed heel. Tennis shoes, sneakers, mountain boots, construction boot, or snow boots are NOT permitted due to rider safety. Waterfront Camp Letts is lucky to be located on an inlet of the Chesapeake Bay along the Rhode River. This is both a natural waterway and public water. As with all natural waterways along the Chesapeake Bay, native plants and animals can be found in the water along our coast, including jellyfish. The population of jellyfish varies not only from summer to summer, but from week to week and day to day. The jellyfish found in our waters are nonthreatening, but will sting. Stings are nonlethal and are easily treated by our staff. If you or your camper is concerned about the possible sting of a jellyfish, you are more than welcome to pack a wetsuit to avoid stings. Mail Whether it is your camper s first or tenth summer at camp, mall is an important part of every camper s day. When addressing a letter to camp, please address the letter as followed: Camper Name Cabin Number and Session Number P.O. Box Camp Letts Road Edgewater, MD Please allow 4 business days for mail to arrive at Camp Letts. You may also your camper at lettscamper2013@gmail.com. Please note that campers will be unable to reply via . When addressing the to your campers, please put the following as the subject: Camper Name, Cabin and Cabin Number, Session Number. (Example: John Smith, Quartermaster 1a, Session 3). Campers will be encouraged to write one letter home. Please plan on sending your camper with self addressed pre-stamped envelopes. Do not be alarmed if the letters are brief and quite irregular as the campers are busy at camp, and no news is good news as far as campers are concerned. Also, early letters may sound upsetting, but usually by the time you receive the letter, the camper has adjusted and often forgotten what he or she wrote. Here are some hints to make corresponding with your camper more successful.

4 Do s Send frequent letters, even short ones. Post cards are great. Be creative! Send a photo of family and /or pets. Have a grandparent write a letter. Have pets send a message (paw prints) Send a favorite comic strip, sticker, joke, etc. Ask a few questions. You are more likely to get a response. Don ts Don t encourage homesickness by emphasizing how much you miss your camper. Don t write how much fun you are having on vacation while your camper is at camp. Don t dwell on negative happenings. You can discuss real issues and problems when he or she returns home. Example of a Good Letter Dear Kate, How was your swim test? Have you made some nice friends? I found a picture of Rover so you can show your cabin how pretty he is. Write me soon, and tell me about your counselor, cabin mates, and favorite activities. Remember to take a lot of pictures so you can show us what you are doing. Love, Mom Example of What Not to Write Photos Dear William, We are having a ball at Disney World! You would love all the things to do here! I guess you know that Grandma isn t doing too well. We may have to put her in a Nursing Home soon. Well, gotta run. The line is moving for Space Mountain! Love, Mom P.S. Your turtle died on Monday. Photos of your camper s session can be seen at our Flickr page which is linked off the main page of please click the icon for Flickr. Photos will be updated at least twice per session. Unfortunately, not all campers will be photographed, though we try our best to photograph as many campers as we can. Discipline Camp Letts uses a behavior management system based on the four core principles of the Y-Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility. In all areas requiring discipline (which literally means to teach ), it is our primary aim to help children educate themselves, so that they learn to make better choices in the future. Our trained counselors and Behavior Specialist try to help campers genuinely help themselves and make restitution for any harm that has been caused. Problems are an opportunity for campers to grow. In the event of any serious problems, parents will be promptly notified. If behavior problems continue or exceed our capacity, campers will be sent home. Please contact us before your camper s arrival to camp to discuss known, significant issues. There are no refunds for campers sent home due to behavioral or psychological issues. Shared Responsibilities Personal responsibility and group cooperation are important elements of the camp experience. Mature, caring counselors work with campers on the importance of caring for one s personal area and belongings, assisting in daily cabin clean up, and pitching in on general camp tasks such as all camp clean up. We strive to imprint these characteristics on each youngster so they will carry over this responsibility to home and school. Visitors and Telephone Calls At Camp Letts, we strive for campers to develop independence. An integral part of the growing process is the extended experiences away from home. In keeping with this, we do not permit phone calls and visits to camp unless there is a family emergency. Please do not ask your camper to call home. There are no public phones available for campers to call home. Parents will be contacted in the case of an emergency or illness. Again, please no cell phones!

5 Check-Out After Camp For each one week session, Check-Out is Friday. Time: 4:00-6:00 PM Location: Camper will be at his or her cabin waiting for you. NOTE: CAMPERS SHOULD NOT BE LEFT PAST 6:00PM. CAMP COUNSELORS WILL BE TAKING A WELL DESERVED DAY OFF AFTER CAMPERS LEAVE. STAFF WILL NOT BE ABLE TO START HIS OR HER DAY OFF UNTIL ALL CAMPERS ARE PICKED UP SAFELY. IF YOU KNOW THAT YOU WILL BE ARRIVING LATE, PLEASE LET THE OFFICE KNOW BY CALLING Pick-Up Authorization No camper will be released to anyone not listed on their signed Pick-Up Authorization Form, including a parent. Please be thorough when filling out the form. All campers must be signed out with a counselor. Please have your photo ID ready and be sure to sign your camper out. If you know that there will be someone picking up your child not listed on the form, please inform the office before check-out day. Tips and Gratuities Tipping of individual staff members is not permitted. If your camper has had a pleasant experience, a gratuity may be left in the Staff Appreciation Jar located in each Crew. Gratuities will help finance the end of the summer banquet for the staff. Lost and Found We will make every effort to return lost and found items while your camper is at camp, but your camper can do more than anyone to insure that nothing is lost. Please mark all items with a permanent marker or laundry label for easy identification. Lost and Found during the session is located in the Dining Hall. On Check-out day, lost and found items can be found in front of the Dining Hall. Please check this area before you leave to insure that you have all of your possessions. If upon arrival home you find that you are missing something, please call Camp Letts and we will try to locate the lost item. Any unclaimed items are stored for one week only. Refunds The parent/guardian agrees and understands that in case of dismissal, homesickness or voluntary withdrawal from camp, there will be no refund of camp fees. If it is deemed advisable by the camp to send a camper home due to medical reasons, a parent must request in writing a pro rata refund for the remainder of the session. There will be no refunds for no-shows or cancellations made within two weeks of expected arrival date. There are also no refunds for cancellation of activities due to related weather conditions. The YMCA reserves the right to refuse any applicant and to cancel any reservation. Health Care Health and Safety Our Health Center is staffed by certified Medicine Technicians, with a registered nurse on call at all times. All of our staff are trained in emergency procedures and certified in First Aid and CPR. Medications Please do not pack medication in your camper s luggage. All Prescription medication brought into camp must be in the: 1. Original prescription container. 2. Accompanied by written orders. 3. Signed by a physician. 4. They must include the camper s name, dosage, and time. 5. All medication, including over-the-counter (vitamins, ointments, ibuprofen, etc.) must be turned in and dispensed by the Health Center Staff as required by Maryland State Law. Camp Letts stocks most over-the-counter medications needed at camp, so it is not necessary to bring these items. You may call us at anytime to see if we keep in stock a particular medication. It is Camp Letts policy that the Health Center keeps a camper s inhaler during camp. The Health Center is always open, and inhalers can be obtained at a moment s notice. However, if a parent requests in writing that an inhaler is to be kept with the camper, we will honor that request provided the camper can demonstrate proper responsibility for the use and possession of the inhaler. Any misuse or misplacement of the inhaler during the camp session will be cause for the inhaler to be kept at the Health Center. Please be sure to pick up any medication from the Health Center staff at the Wellness Center. Any left or forgotten medication will be stored at Camp Letts for one week. If the medication has not been claimed by one week, the unclaimed medication will be disposed of by a local pharmacist.

6 Illness If a child becomes ill while at camp, they will be treated in our Health Center, staffed by Medicine Technicians. If the illness persists, the Health Center Staff will contact you for further details and discuss further options. A camper who is sick before camp begins should be kept home for his or her own sake and that of others. Many communicable diseases begin with cold-like symptoms. Please inform Camp Letts if your camper is sick and will be late checking-in. Meals and Food Allergies A healthy diet is recognized by our staff as an important factor in a successful camp experience. We serve three well-balanced meals daily in our clean, spacious dining hall. Our nutritious menus include fresh fruits, low fat milk and vegetarian options as well as a robust salad bar. If your child has any food allergies, please let us know before your camper arrives to camp. Our experienced food service staff is more than able to work with you to create a delicious and safe meal option for your camper. Insurance Camp Letts does not carry accident or sickness insurance on summer youth campers. Parents/guardians must include their personal Health Insurance information in the space provided on the Camper Health Form. This information will only be used to facilitate outside medical treatment if required. In the event of serious illness or accident, the parents will be notified at once. Parents/guardians are responsible for prescriptions and charges incurred for outside medical treatment of their child, should services be required while in attendance at camp. Services rendered by the Health Center Staff are at no additional charge. Emergencies Emergency calls to campers should be done through the Camp Letts office ( ). If there is a situation where either the phones are down or outside of business hours (9:00 AM-5:00 PM), please call our emergency line ( ). Please remember this is an emergency line and should only be used for emergency purposes. Routine scrapes, cuts, and minor illness will be treated by our Health Center Staff, and no phone call home will be made. In the case of serious illness or accident involving your camper, the Health Center Staff will contact you directly. Federal ID # Main Office: or Health Services: Fax: info@campletts.org

7 YMCA CAMP LETTS OVERNIGHT CAMP Suggested Clothing and Equipment List (All items should be labeled with camper s name) SUGGESTED LIST FOR ONE WEEK (DOUBLE CLOTHING FOR TWO WEEKS) Sleeping bag OR a blanket, 2 sheets Pillow and cases 2 towels for swimming use 5 T-shirts or short sleeve shirts 2 towels for bathing use 1 comb or brush 2 pajamas / nightgowns 1 pair of long pants 1 Flashlight and batteries Hat or cap Sunscreen (waterproof) Water Bottle Backpack Raincoat or Poncho 1 light jacket 2 bathing suits 5 pairs of shorts 5 sets of underwear and socks 2 wash cloths Toilet Articles (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc) 1 long sleeve shirt 2 pairs of tennis shoes or sneakers Water shoes, sandals, or sneakers that can get wet Insect repellent (non aerosol) Laundry Bag SPECIALTY/ADD ON ITEMS HORSE MASTERS AND TRAIL RIDES MUST HAVE Long pants for riding or Jods MUST HAVE Heeled shoes with a ½ heel* and must be closed toe and closed heel. *No tennis shoes, sneakers, mountain boots, construction boots or snow boots are permitted due to rider safety. WATERSKI/WAKEBOARDING Ski gloves Rash Vest or Wetsuit PAINTBALL Long sleeve shirt Long pants SAILING Sailing gloves OPTIONAL ITEMS Sunglasses Books Duffel Bag Small fan Tennis Racket Self addressed postcards OR envelopes stamped Pens or pencils PLEASE CELL PHONES ARE NOT TO BE BROUGHT TO CAMP. Please do not bring valuables such as cameras, expensive watches, jewelry, ipods, ipads,cd s, tape players, cell phones, headphones or video games.

8 YMCA CAMP LETTS PICK-UP AUTHORIZATION All individuals including parent or legal guardian must be listed on the approved pick up list. Any one picking up a child must present a current form of a PHOTO ID EVERYDAY matching their name as it appears on this pick-up list. If you (the parent/legal guardian) do not pick up your child, we want to make sure the person who does have your authorization. We at YMCA Camp Letts take our responsibility for the welfare of your child VERY seriously. Camper Name: Session No: I,, give permission for my child to be released from camp to the following adult(s): Name Relation to Child Day Time Telephone Number Parent/Guardian Signature Date: List any person(s) PROHIBITED from picking up your child: Name FOR CAMP USE ONLY I am picking up the above named child from YMCA Camp Letts and am assuming full responsibility for him/her. Name: Signature: Date:

9 YMCA CAMP LETTS PARENT-COUNSELOR CONFIDENTIAL FORM Last Name: Age at Camp Yrs Mos This form MUST be completed by parent/guardian and sent to camp before your child attends. We have designed this form to develop communication between you and your child's counselor. We can know what your child's needs and desires are for their stay at Camp Letts. Please complete this form carefully. Please use the back of this form, if needed for more information that will help us give your child a better experience. Camper's Name Sex Session Nickname Birthdate / / Grade Next Fall Parent/Guardian's Name Family Address Home Phone Work Phone How did you hear about Camp Letts? Age of Sisters & Brothers Pets Has your child been away from home overnight before? Yes No How Long? Are there any problems that may confront your child while away at Camp? (Divorce, illnesses, homesickness, bed wetting, sleepwalking, etc.) Is your child taking prescribed medication? Yes No What reaction might we expect if not taken? Duties and responsibilities at home? How well does your child get along with others (children & adults)? Why does your child want to come to Camp Letts and what are their interests? Adjectives that describe your child: What are your objectives for sending your child to Camp Letts? Are there any issues that we should be aware of in order to help make this a positive experience? (Please use the back of this form if necessary)

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14 YMCA OF METROPOLITAN WASHINGTON CAMP LETTS ( YMCA CAMP LETTS ) PARTICIPANT WAIVER FORM Camper s Name ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I expressly acknowledge that there are certain dangers, risks, illnesses and personal injuries inherent in participating in the YMCA s programs, events, classes, and/or other activities, which may result from unavoidable accidents or injuries, athletic activities, sports programs/classes, the use of any equipment, exercise, or other activities or from my or my minor child(ren) s or ward(s) physical condition. I understand that the YMCA and its employees, agents, counselors, teachers, trainers, representatives, successors and assigns assume no responsibility for loss, damage, illness or injury to person or property that I or my minor child(ren) or ward(s), if applicable, may sustain as a result of my or their physical condition or resulting from my or their participation in any activities, programs, events, classes, the use or non-use of any equipment, exercise, horseback riding, archery, field trips, waterfront and pool activities, canoeing/boating, campfires, hiking, high ropes and other challenge courses, or any other activities, classes, events, or programs at and/or sponsored by the YMCA. I expressly acknowledge, on behalf of myself and my minor child(ren) and ward(s), heirs and executors, that I voluntarily assume the sole risk for any and all dangers, illnesses and personal injuries that may result from my or my minor child(ren) s or ward(s) participation in any events/activities/programs/classes while at the YMCA and/or sponsored by the YMCA. I also acknowledge that the YMCA often uses photographs, videotapes, television programs, motion pictures, tape recordings, or other similar media for promotional purposes. I hereby consent to the use of my and/or my minor child(ren) s or ward(s) name(s) and/or likeness(es) in such materials to be exhibited and used for advertising, trade purposes, solicitation of patronage, promotional purposes, or other similar purposes, even if my and/or my minor child(ren) s or ward(s) name(s) and/or likeness(es) are an integral part of such photograph, videotape, television program, motion picture, tape recording, or other similar media. RELEASE Camp Session In consideration of the YMCA allowing me and/or my minor child(ren) or ward(s) to attend and/or participate in any programs, events, classes, or other activities at the YMCA and/or sponsored by the YMCA, I hereby, for myself, my minor child(ren) or ward(s), heirs, and executors, waive, release and forever discharge the YMCA and its employees, agents, counselors, teachers, trainers, representatives, successors and assigns, from and against any and all rights and claims for any loss, damage, illness or injuries to person or property sustained as a result of my attendance and/or participation in any such programs, events, classes, and other activities, whether or not such loss, damage or injury results from the negligence of the YMCA and its employees, agents, or representatives or from some other cause. My agreement to release the YMCA does not include any loss, damage or injury that results from the YMCA's gross negligence or willful, wanton, or reckless misconduct. I further waive any and all rights to inspect or approve the photograph, videotape, television program, motion picture, tape recording or other use of my and/or my minor child(ren) s or ward(s) name(s) and/or likeness(es), including any written article, script, caption or other writing that may accompany such use of my and/or my minor child(ren) s or ward(s) name(s) and/or likeness(es). I (OVER)

15 hereby, for myself, my minor child(ren) or ward(s), heirs, and executors, waive, release and forever discharge the YMCA and its employees, agents, counselors, teachers, trainers, representatives, successors and assigns, from and against any and all liability, claims, losses, costs, expenses or damages for libel, slander, invasion of privacy, conversion, defamation, appropriation of likeness or any other claim based on the use of my and/or my minor child(ren) s or ward(s) name(s) and/or likeness(es) in any such materials. INDEMNIFICATION I hereby represent and warrant to the YMCA that I have the authority to execute this Participant Waiver Form on behalf of myself and/or on behalf of my minor child(ren) or ward(s) as parent, guardian and/or next friend, if applicable. In the event of any misrepresentation or breach of the foregoing warranty by me, or in the event that I, my minor child(ren) or ward(s), or any other person nevertheless asserts any claim against the YMCA arising out of my or my minor child(ren) s or ward(s) participation in any program, event, class or other activity as set forth herein, I agree to indemnify, hold harmless and defend the YMCA from and against any and all liability, claims, losses, costs, expenses or damages resulting therefrom, including, but not limited to, claims of loss, damage, illness or injury to person or property whether or not such loss, damage, illness or injury results from the negligence of the YMCA or from some other cause. ACCEPTANCE I expressly acknowledge and agree to the terms and conditions set forth on this Participant Waiver Form. Signature of Participant or Parent/Guardian of Participant(s) under the Age of 18 Date Address and Telephone Number of Participant or Parent/Guardian of Participant(s) Name(s) and Age(s) of Participant(s) under the Address(es) and Telephone Number(s) Age of 18, If Any of Participant(s) under the Age of 18 Name of Emergency Contact Person for Participant(s) Telephone Number for Emergency Contact Person for Participant(s) Y /1/11 7:23 AM 2

16 We are excited to announce that we are now offering Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) as our preferred payment option for your YMCA Summer Camp Registration. We are glad to be able to bring you this technology to make your life a little easier. No more checks to write or trips to the Business Office during your busy day. How does the EFT process work? There are only three steps: 1. First, complete the Electronic Funds Transfer Authorization Form included in your Summer Camp registration packet. 2. Second, place a minimal deposit on each session for each child. 3. Third, the balance will be drafted at the date specified on the EFT Form. It s that simple. How does EFT benefit you? Paying by EFT saves you time and who couldn t use a little more time? Paying by EFT relieves you from having to remember to make payments and who doesn t need one less headache? Paying by EFT can save you money by avoiding bank check processing or transaction usage fees. Paying by EFT is an efficient use of technology. It is simple and easy.

17 EFT PAYMENT AUTHORIZATION FORM YMCA of Metropolitan Washington PLEASE SELECT THE DESIRED PAYMENT OPTION: OPTION 1 Pay camp fees in full at the time of registration OPTION 2 Pay a $300 deposit per camp session at time of registration, and remit payment for the balance through draft (EFT) based on selected camps. See payment schedule below. NOTE this year allows for you to make your payments in 3 steps with the initial deposit at registration then 50% of your remaining balance on the first draft date and 50% on the second draft date if you register before the first draft date listed for your session. Overnight Camp Camp Dates Draft Dates Session 1 June 22 June 27 50% on April 26 and 50% on May 26 Session 2 June 29 July 4 50% on May 10 and 50% on June 10 Session 3 July % on May 10 and 50% on June 10 Session 4 July % on May 26 and 50% on June 26 Session 5 July % on May 26 and 50% on June 26 Session 6 July 27 August 1 50% on May 26 and 50% on June 26 Session 7 August % on June 10 and 50% on July 10 Session 8 August % on June 26 and 50% on July 26 Session 9 August % on June 26 and 50% on July 26 Camper s Name Session Amount PLEASE COMPLETE PAYMENT AUTHORIZATION BELOW (Please Check Method of Payment) CREDIT CARD AUTHORIZATION DRAFTS WILL OCCUR ON APPROXIMATELY THE 10 th or THE 26 th. INITIALS I authorize the YMCA to charge my credit card for camp payments. I understand that I must provide written notice of cancellation. If at any time there is to be a change, deletion, or cancellation of my child s camp enrollment, it is to be submitted in writing to the YMCA branch where camp was purchased two weeks prior to the date of my credit card draft in order to discontinue the debit. AMEX MC VISA DISCOVER PRINT NAME AS IT APPEARS ON CARD CARD ISSUER CREDIT CARD NUMBER EXP. DATE SIGNATURE OF CARD HOLDER BILLING ADDRESS OF CARDHOLDER: CITY: STATE: ZIP - BANK DRAFT AUTHORIZATION DRAFTS WILL OCCUR ON APPROXIMATELY THE 10 th or THE 26 th. INITIALS I authorize my bank to honor pre-authorized drafts drawn by the YMCA on my account for camp payments. I understand that my EFT drafts will occur automatically until I provide written notice to the YMCA two weeks prior to the date of my bank draft payment. When the bank honors the draft by charging my account, such drafts constitute my receipt for the payment. Should any draft not be honored by said bank when received by them, it is understood that the payment is to be made by me in the amount of said payment, plus a service charge. If at any time there is to be a change, deletion, or cancellation of my child s camp enrollment, it is to be submitted in writing to the YMCA branch where camp was purchased two weeks prior to the date of my draft in order to discontinue the debit. A voided check is required with all electronic funds transfer (EFT) applications. NAME OF BANK ACCOUNT NUMBER TRANSIT/ROUTING NUMBER PLEASE PRINT NAME SIGNATURE OF ACCT. HOLDER DATE

18 OVERNIGHT CAMP STORE POLICY The camp store will be open to each summer camper on a rotating schedule of every other day. The store will also be open on check-in and closing days during summer camp. An account for your child can be opened in our Camp Store for a minimum of $10. This amount should be added to your camp balance and paid prior to your child s arrival at camp. This account is used to purchase items from this store only. Campers are unable to withdraw money from this account. At the end of each session, any remaining money in their accounts will be donated to our Caring for Community Campaign. REMINDER: 1. All purchases will be deducted from your camper s account. 2. Any remaining monies will be donated to our Caring for Community Campaign. 3. The store cannot give any money out of this account. 4. The Camp is not responsible for lost, misplaced or stolen money left with campers CARING FOR COMMUNITY The Caring for Community Campaign is developed by YMCA Camp Letts to raise money through donations to send needy children to Camp. Our goal this year is $150,000. Your donation of any unused store money from your child s account will help us reach this goal. Simply sign the bottom of this form, which acknowledges that the remaining money in your child s account will automatically be put into this program. We appreciate your kindness and generosity. Over the past 100+ years we were able to send thousands of children to Camp Letts that otherwise would have never experienced our wonderful program or seen our beautiful facility. I acknowledge that the remainder of my child s store account will be donated to the YMCA Camp Letts Caring for Community Campaign. Camper Name: Session: Parent Name: Signature: Date:

19 TRANSPORTATION FORM OVERNIGHT CAMP BUS TRANSPORTATION SCHEDULE CAMPERS WILL BE PICKED UP BY A YMCA BUS AT THE DESIGNATED TIMES FROM THESE BRANCHES ON THE FOLLOWING SUNDAYS: JUNE 22, 29, and JULY 06, 13, 20, 27 and AUGUST 3, 10, 17, 2014 BETHESDA/CHEVY CHASE YMCA 12:00 PM CALOMIRIS YMCA CENTER 12:00 PM 9401 OLD GEORGETOWN RD ALLISON STREET, NE BETHESDA, MD WASHINGTON, DC SILVER SPRING YMCA 12:30 PM ARLINGTON YMCA 12:30 PM 9800 HASTINGS DR NORTH 13 TH STREET SILVER SPRING, MD ARLINGTON, VA CAMPERS WILL BE RETURNING BY YMCA BUS AT THE DESIGNATED TIMES FOR THESE BRANCHES ON THE FOLLOWING FRIDAYS: JUNE 27, and JULY 4, 11, 18, 25 and AUGUST 1, 15, 22, 2014 BETHESDA CHEVY CHASE 3:00 PM CALOMIRIS YMCA CENTER 3:00 PM SILVER SPRING 2:30 PM ARLINGTON YMCA 2:30 PM Camper s Name Parent s Name Arrival Session Departure Session Arrival Bus Date Arlington YMCA Bethesda YMCA Calomiris YMCA Silver Spring YMCA Departure Bus Date Arlington YMCA Bethesda YMCA Calomiris YMCA Silver Spring YMCA BUS FARE: $40 one way, $80 round trip. Fees are payable in advance and are non-refundable. Parent s Signature Phone Number

20 Early Release Form Parents / Guardians: If your Camper must be picked up for any reason during the session (other than normal check out), please complete the following form. Your Camper will ONLY be released to the person(s) nominated on this form. Campers will await pick-up at the Summer Camp Office unless other arrangements are made. Camper Name: Cabin: Date and Time of Pick-Up: / : am / pm Name of Person Picking Up Camper: Relationship to Camper: Will your Camper be returning to Camp? Yes / No Date and Time of Return: / : am / pm Is there anything your Camper should have prepared before their pick-up time? (fully packed, baseball uniform on, etc.) Signature: Date: / / Name (Print):