YMCA Campers Benefit From Scholarship Programs

Written by Bev McCarron

At the Bridgewater YMCA camp, a group of kids are playing volleyball on a sunny, breezy day under the watchful eye of counselors. Earlier, a busload of teens had headed off to the beach as part of travel camp. 

A few miles away on the same day, six children are sitting at a picnic table at the Somerville Family YMCA learning how to make ice cream—and also learning about the science of turning solids into liquids. 

And, over at the Hillsborough Family YMCA, budding actors and actresses are creating short skits and learning about costume and set design. Their day ended with swimming lessons in the Y pool. 

At each of the Somerset Valley YMCA’s three branches, summer camp is in full swing. On any given day, more than 300 kids are making new friends, staying active and healthy and enjoying summer, watched over by caring staff. 

The Y, a nonprofit, believes all children should have the opportunity to go to camp, and that finances should not be a barrier for any family. Last year, thanks to donations from the community as well as Y members, the Somerset Valley YMCA was able to provide $40,000 in scholarships for children to go to camp. 

This year’s need is even greater, with $55,000 distributed so far. In 2013, financial assistance paid for 434 weeks of camp so far. 

“Camp is an experience every child deserves,” said Karyn Lightcap, acting CEO of the Somerset Valley YMCA. “The Y believes all children should have the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve regardless of their family’s economic situation.” 

“Our camps give children the opportunity to meet new friends, explore nature, discover new interests, be physically active and create memories that will last a lifetime.” 

The Y is accredited by the American Camp Association, which sets the highest standards for day camps in the nation. According to the ACA, a leading authority in children and camps, when children at camp are unplugged from their electronic companions—phones, computers, televisions and video games—they make connections with other children, become more physically fit and discover their strengths. Relationships formed at camp can have a life-long impact on a camper. 

Somerset Valley Y camper Julia said she loved the enrichment camps she attended. 

“You learn a lot and it is way more fun than school,” she said. Camper Grace enjoyed learning about animals in Future Vets camp. 

Please consider donating to send a child in your community to Y camp. A camp week costs $250 and up, but any donation will help. You can donate online here. 

Families who need financial assistance to send their children to camp should contact any branch. 

With over 40 specialty day camps, the Somerset Valley YMCA’s camps are designed to focus on developing the whole child. Camps range from traditional day camp with arts and crafts, swimming and sports, to enrichment and sports specialty camps. This year’s new camps include digital arts and crafts, video production, culinary creations, and weird and wacky science. 

A complete camp listings can be found on the YMCA's website.