YMCA TAKING RESERVATIONS FOR SUMMER CAMPS
Y “campers” at Lake Keomah.
OSKALOOSA – It’s not officially summer without summer camp activities, and the Mahaska County YMCA is already gearing up for “Discovery Y” – summer day camp series with a different theme each week. This year, the day camps begin May 24 and conclude August 18.
Kim Stutting, Youth Coordinator for Mahaska County Y, said there have already been summer camp inquiries and it’s not too early to make reservations. “The first day camp,” said Stutting, “is called School’s Out which will give campers an opportunities to get to know our facilities, our staff and all the fun headed their way this summer. We’re looking forward to the entire summer schedule which includes many exciting field trips this year.”
Some of the field trips planned include an I Cubs game, Des Moines Science Center, Blank Park Zoo, Sleepy Hollow Recreation Park, Neal Smith Natural Wildlife Refuge, Des Moines Botanical Center, Iowa State Capital, Nelson Pioneer Farm, Living History Farm.
Other weekly themes this year include: School’s Out, Creative Creations, Active and Healthy, STEM, Amazing Animals, Athletics, A Good Ol’ Camp Out, Adventure Awaits, Agriculture, Community Counts, Water Works, Pioneer Days, and Back to School.
Stutting said each week of Y Day Camp offers youth opportunities for growth through outdoor activities and hands-on learning. “At the Y, strengthening community is our cause. We believe that lasting personal and social change can only come about when we all work together to invest in our kids, our health and our neighbors. That’s why we focus our work in three areas: youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.”
Discovery Y day camps are for children in grades K-5. The weekly price of $130 includes local field trips, meals and snacks. An additional fee for weeks with larger field trips is an additional $5-$30. A one-time registration fee of $20 will hold your family’s slot for one or more camps. Stutting said a multi-child discount of 5% will be given to additional campers from the same immediate family. Stutting also said t-shirts are required for all campers and must be worn every Friday and on other days as requested. They can be purchased for $10.
To reserve a spot for any of the YMCA camps, contact the Y at 641.673.8411. More camp detailed information is available on the Y’s web site, www.MahaskaYMCA.org.
