IT S THE SUMMER TO DISCOVER Camp McCumber SHASTA FAMILY YMCA Shasta Family YMCA Camp McCumber Parent Handbook 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS About Our Program... 4 Goals Ages Camp Sessions Highlights Camp Themes Daily Schedule Facts at a Glance Our Staff Directions to Camp Mail Respectful Behaviors and Rights... 8 Camper Behavior Camp Rules/Policies Personal Rights Parent Visitation Dress Code Medical and Health Procedures... 11 Medical and Emergency Mandated Reporters Medicine Policy Registration and Fee Information... 12 General Camp and Fee Information Camp Store, Camp Photo, Camp T-shirt Preparation Information... 13 What to Pack Parent Information Meeting
About Our Program Welcome. The Y s resident camp is about discovery! Resident camps at the Y share one thing: they re about new experiences. Kids have the opportunity to explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships and memories. And, of course, it s fun too. YMCA Camp offers children an outdoor environment that is happy, safe, and educational. They will learn respect for their fellow campers, for their own abilities, and for the natural beauty of the area. We make sure your children will have opportunities for positive growth and development. Program Participants Camp McCumber is for children ages 8-15 and Counselors in Training (CIT) ages 16-17. Session Dates and Themes Session I: July 13-19, 2014 Theme: Myths & Legends Session II: July27-Aug 2, 2014 Theme: Lights, Camera, Camp Camp Numbers Phone Numbers: Camp Phone # (530) 474-1614 (during camp weeks only) YMCA Phone # (530) 246-9622 4
Program Highlights We believe the values and skills learned early on are vital building blocks for life. Because of the Y, more young people are taking a greater interest in learning and making smarter life choices. At Y Camps, children learn values and positive behaviors, and can explore their unique talents and interests, helping them realize their potential. That makes for confident kids today and contributing and engaged adults tomorrow. Learn, Grow, Thrive with the Y You ll know they are growing and exploring their potential; they ll think they are just having fun. Programs Children will choose activities daily. These activities include but are not limited to: WATERFRONT: Canoeing, boating and fishing highlight this perennial favorite. Supervised by a Red Cross certified lifeguard. Swimming available if lake level permits. ARCHERY: Our archery range lets campers take aim. ARTS & CRAFTS: Special creative projects daily. HIKING: Wonderful, age appropriate hikes to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. CAMPFIRES: Special activities, songs, and skits each evening. CHAPEL: Non-denominational devotions and thought for the day. DAILY SPORTS ACTIVITIES: Campers will enjoy a variety of sports activities, both organized and individually. LEATHERS AND RAGGERS PROGRAM: Goal-based, self-discovery program designed to encourage positive life choices. CABIN ACTIVITY NIGHT: Cabin groups choose an activity to do together on one night of camp. That night ends with an all camp glow-in-the-dark get together. DAILY CHALLENGES: Each cabin will have a daily challenge based on the session theme. Shasta Family YMCA Camp McCumber Parent Handbook 5
Daily Schedule Activity choices and times may vary. 7:00 Rise and Shine 8:00 Flag / Chapel 8:30 Breakfast 10:30 Open Activities 12:15 Flag Pole 12:30 Lunch 1:00 Horizontal Time / Free Reading / Writing 2:30 Camp Store 3:00 Open Activities 5:15 Flag Pole 5:30 Dinner 6:30 Group Games 8:00 Campfire 10:00 Lights Out Facts at a Glance ARRIVAL: CIT (ages 16-17) are to be at camp by 4 p.m. the Saturday before each session begins. Campers (ages 8-15) check in starts Sunday at 3 p.m. for each session. (Please do not drop off earlier than 3 p.m. staff will not be able to accept children.) Each parent should plan to visit with the camp nurse to turn in any medical information and medication for your child. Each parent should meet with your cabin counselor and plan to help your camper get settled. Dinner will be served to at 5:30 p.m. for all campers (6:30 p.m. regular time) Follow the parking instructions stated in the rules section of this handbook. Parents may visit their child at Camp McCumber. Every visitor must check in with the Camp Directors or Camp Nurse before entering the camping area. (See parent visitation) YMCA CAMPS: THEY RE ABOUT DISCOVERY 6
DEPARTURE: Campers must be picked up at Camp McCumber by 10 a.m. sharp on the Saturday ending each session week. WHAT TO BRING: Please refer to the packing list enclosed. Be sure to label everything! It is not recommended that your child bring valuables to camp. The YMCA is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen articles. Items left at Camp McCumber must be claimed at the Shasta Family YMCA by August 15th. Please no gum. MEALS: Nutritious, balanced meals are served daily, starting with dinner on the first day of camp. Please advise us in writing if your child has any food allergies/restrictions due to family choice or religion and their appropriate substitutions (see enrollment packet). STAFFING: Leadership makes the difference! Camp McCumber is under the direction and supervision of YMCA Camp Staff with extensive camping experience and training. The camp program staff are mature, well-trained, young adults who are selected for their sensitivity and proven abilities relating to children. All staff have been cleared through a criminal background check. DIRECTIONS: Camp McCumber is located off Hwy. 44 East, 7.5 miles east of Shingletown. Turn left at the Camp McCumber sign and keep right. Drive past the PG&E Campground at the Dam; look for the Camp McCumber sign. The main gate is on the left, follow the road into the main parking lot. MAIL: You may want to send along stamped post cards or self-addressed envelopes for campers to use. You may also drop mail off at the YMCA Monday through Friday before 9 a.m. (Y Staff make daily trips to camp). Campers enjoy receiving fun gifts and snacks. (Please No Gum) If using postal service, mail should be addressed as follows: Camper s Name C/O YMCA Camp McCumber 35440 Deer Flat Rd. Shingletown, CA. 96088 Mail early to ensure camper receives mail on time. Large packages and insured or registered mail are not delivered on the rural route into camp. Shasta Family YMCA Camp McCumber 7 Parent Handbook
Camper Behavior Camp McCumber gives an outstanding opportunity for campers to increase their sense of self- worth and to learn responsibility and cooperation through group living. Campers who come with a positive attitude and are ready to share, cooperate, and work in a group will have a successful week. It is necessary for each camper to be aware of the rules and follow them for a safe, enjoyable experience. Camp Rules (These rules apply to all Campers, CIT s & Counselors. 1. ALWAYS let someone know where you are going; avoid doing anything alone. Your Camp Counselor is responsible for you. Communication with your CIT is also important. 2. Water Front Area is only open when a lifeguard is on duty. 3. Leaving camp boundaries without permission or supervision is not permitted. 4. Pets and animals are not allowed. 5. The kitchen is off limits. The kitchen restrooms/showers are for counselors and adults only. No mingling of the campers and kitchen staff is allowed. 6. The Dining Hall is off limits unless it is meal time or being used for a supervised activity. 7. All eating utensils are to remain in the Dining Hall. 8. The Service Road is off limits at all times to pedestrians and vehicles. All vehicles must park in designated areas. 9. Washing machine use is limited to the camp nurse only. Clothes lines are available for drying clothes. 10. Camp telephone use is by permission only and must be supervised by a camp staff. Cell phones must stay in cabins and may only be used by campers & CITs in their cabins. All other electronics are not allowed at camp. Anyone taking inappropriate pictures or videos will be sent home. 11. In an Emergency Evacuation, always go to the Main Parking Lot and remain there until further instructions are issued. 12. Restroom supervision: Campers will use the Buddy System; always team up with another camper. 13. Staff will stand in view of the restroom while campers are inside the restroom. Our Impact is Felt Every Day With a mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a HEALTHY SPIRIT, MIND and BODY for all, our impact is felt when an individual makes a healthy choice, when a mentor inspires a child and when a community comes together for the common good. 8
14. Campers are not allowed to get into a car during Camp McCumber with anyone other than their Parent/Guardian. Camp McCumber staff cannot transport campers. 15. DO NOT leave camp with strangers: Under no circumstances are campers to leave camp with anyone other than the parent, guardian, or other pre-authorized adult. Written parent authorization must be on file with the Camp Directors. 16. Report any strangers to the Camp Directors immediately. 17. Alcohol and narcotics prohibited at all times. Using, possessing, or being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs during camp is grounds for immediate dismissal. Termination of other YMCA activities may also occur depending on severity of incident. 18. Smoking or use of tobacco is prohibited. 19. Misconduct, harmful use of language and inappropriate actions will not be tolerated. 20. Weapons are prohibited including pocket knives. 21. Violence of any kind will not be tolerated. All illegal acts of violence, intent to harm, possession of weapons, etc. will be reported to the authorities. 22. NO Fireworks are allowed at camp. 23. Negligence, being careless with camp property, damage will incur expenses and will not be tolerated. 24. Graffiti in any form will be considered damage to camp property. 25. Solicitation, distribution, or posting of materials unrelated to YMCA Camp business is not allowed without the permission of the YMCA CEO. 26. Unauthorized possession of YMCA Property or Camp McCumber Property is not allowed. Shasta Family YMCA Camp McCumber 9 Parent Handbook
Positive Experiences As documented by the Search Institute s research and their 40-Asset Development Framework for healthy child development, to succeed and to become CARING, RESPONSIBLE and SUCCESSFUL adults, kids need: productive activities positive relationships safe places Each planned activity at the Y incorporates the intentional building of these 40 common sense, positive experiences and qualities that help influence choices young people make. Your Rights All children will be treated with respect and consideration. All children will be treated equally regardless of sex, race, religion, or culture. Parent Visitation When arriving with your camper, please check the daily schedule posted on the director s cabin to plan the best time for your visit, preferably during Open Activities. And, please remember, at Camp McCumber we run on camp time, which is always one hour behind normal time to accommodate for evening campfire activities. Dress Code Dress for outdoor activities with mild days and chilly nights. Appropriate* clothing, being such that they are modest and of good taste, and allows for comfortable flexibility. (No bare mid-drifts, short shorts, or spaghetti straps.) Closed-toe shoes except for swimming and showers. Appropriate* swim suits, being such that they are modest and in good taste, and allows for swimming activities. * To be determined by camp director. 10
Medical and Health Procedures Health and Safety Each child s health and safety is closely supervised by the entire camp staff. The YMCA Camp Nurse is available 24 hours a day. Parents will be notified of any serious medical emergency. Camp staff are not allowed to transport campers; in the event of a life threatening emergency, 911 will be called. Parents/guardians will be called to transport the child for all other medical emergencies requiring transportation. Mandated Reporters If staff suspects that a child is being abused in any way (physically, sexually, emotionally), we are required by the State of California, to file a report with Child Protective Services. We are not required to notify the parent or guardian prior to, or after, the report has been made. Health, Medication and Accident Policies It is our intention to prevent the spread of infections and illness to other children. If the staff becomes aware of a condition involving a child who may be contagious or unhealthy to any of the other participants, it will be brought to the parent s attention and the child must be taken home and may not return to the program until symptom free for at least 24 hours. Children cannot attend if they are ill. Medicine Policy Medicine may be given if needed for ambulatory illnesses only. Please DO NOT send any medication, which is not absolutely necessary. Medicine must be accompanied by a signed Request For Medication Form filled out and signed by the parent containing the following: Date Name of child Name of medicine Amount to be given Time of day to be given and how often Number of days to be given All Medication is stored and administered by the Camp Nurse and documented. Medication must arrive in the original container from the pharmacy and the information should agree with that given by the doctor as stated on the Medication Release form. All medications can only be administered with specific written instructions from the physician and signed written permission from the parent/guardian. Shasta Family YMCA Camp McCumber 11 Parent Handbook
Registration and Fee Information Fees Campers Counselors in Training YMCA Members: Ages 8-15 $375.00 Ages 16-17 $365.00 Non-Members: $395.00 $385.00 Additional siblings will receive a 10% discount. All camp fees must be paid in full to the YMCA by July 1st. Camp capacity is limited. Enrollment is taken on a first come, first served basis. A minimum $50 deposit (non-refundable) or full payment is required when you submit the Registration Packet. Your child cannot attend without payment and having the mandatory forms on file with the YMCA. Full payment is due NO LATER THEN JULY 1st. No refunds after July 1. Campers may register for Camp McCumber by stopping by the Y, or by mailing a completed Registration Packet along with the registration fees. Shasta Family YMCA Attention: Camp McCumber 1155 N. Court Street Redding, CA 96001 FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Financial Assistance is available to those who qualify, subject to the YMCA s available resources. Funds made available for use in the Y s financial assistance program are made available through the YMCA s annual support campaign. It is our intent that all individuals contribute toward camp fees. Financial assistance applications for both sessions must be received by June 1. You will be notified within 10 days if you qualify. Families can receive up to a 20% discount. CAMP STORE The camp store is open for children who want to purchase snacks. A $10 fee, to be paid upon arrival to camp, allows children to visit the store once a day. Monies left over at the end of the week go towards camp scholarships. CAMP PHOTO We are pleased to again offer a camp group photo! There is no additional cost for the 8X10 color photo. Please pick up all certificates, awards and the camp photo on pick-up day. CAMP T-SHIRT Every child also receives a camp T-shirt as a wonderful memento of his or her time with us. The t-shirt cost is included in the overall camp fee. Please specify your child s t-shirt size on the front page of the camp registration packet. 12
Camp Packing List Suggested list of things to bring to camp Using a permanent marker, label each item of clothing and equipment with your child s name. Sleeping bag or 2 heavy blankets, pillow Reusable Water Bottle Flashlight Campers should have at least 2-3 pairs of shoes as 1 pair will inevitably get wet Flip-flops are OK for showers, but not allowed around camp. Obstacle course shoes (will get muddy) optional Warm socks - enough for the week (7+pairs) Underwear - enough for the week Warm coat or jacket (sweater, sweatshirts) Pants and shorts - enough for the week T-shirts enough for the week PJ s, sweat pants (something warm to sleep in) Swim suit, sun block, hat (if sun sensitive), Chap Stick, mosquito repellent Towels, washcloth, bar of soap (please have a box), shampoo, conditioner Hairbrush, toothbrush, toothpaste, Kleenex Self-addressed stamped post cards or envelopes, paper & pencils (optional) Laundry bag or trash bag for dirty clothes Camera, fishing pole, (optional) glow-in-the-dark décor (optional for cabin activity night). Costumes/dress-up items for theme (optional). Book, magazine, playing cards (something quiet for rest hour, optional) Pack all items in a small bag or suitcase - Please remember, camp is for ONE week only. * Please NO electronic games, CD players, IPods, MP3 players due to possibility of damage or loss. We are here to experience a true camp environment and enjoy friends and the natural beauty of the area. * Cell phones are discouraged and, if brought, must stay in child s cabin. * Please NO ice chests. The YMCA cannot be responsible for any items brought by your youngster. Parents, please don t buy any new clothes. Old clothes are better so your children can play and do activities without worry. Shasta Family YMCA Camp McCumber 13 Parent Handbook
Parent Information Meeting Come to this very important meeting to ask all those burning questions you have about Camp McCumber. The Y s resident camp is where kids have the opportunity to explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships and memories. When: Friday, June 27, 2014 Where: Shasta Family YMCA Conference Room Time: Who: 7:00 to 8:00 pm All parents, campers and guardians are welcome and encouraged to come 14