“Oh, the places you’ll go!” was this year’s theme for the Anaheim Family YMCA’s Camp Fox, which took place July 2 to July 8 at Catalina Island. Inspired by Dr. Seuss’ book about experiencing new adventures, the theme was best exemplified by campers like Kenneth Lazard whose mission was to try everything camp had to offer. “His legs may have been shaking when he came down from the high ropes, but it didn’t stop him from trying it,” said Laura Sowers, co-director of Camp Fox. “I know he had many firsts this year and that’s what it’s all about – exposing campers to things they might not ever get a chance to do.” Kenneth is just one of more than a hundred local teens who attended this year’s camp. Each year at the island paradise, campers explore activities like water tubing, camp fires, kayaking, high ropes courses, dances and archery. By engaging teens in goal setting programs, camp promotes positive values to develop self esteem and create lasting memories. “This truly was one of the best years to date,” Laura said. “Our musical team really went out of their way – there is nothing like hearing 110 campers sing ‘The Rose’ or ‘Lean on Me’ in the dining hall. There are so many snapshots of happy times that it’s too difficult to narrow it down to one favorite memory.” The importance of the YMCA’s youth camps was especially apparent to Laura this year, as she noted that many teens are losing their face-to-face communication skills to e-mail, cell phones and instant messaging. “When I told a camper she wouldn’t get cell phone reception on the island, I thought she was going to jump off the boat and swim back to the mainland,” Laura said. “At the end of the week, she amazingly survived! Camp gives us an opportunity to take away the day-to-day distractions and focus on what is truly important.” In addition to teaching teens positive values and life skills such as how to overcome obstacles, camp provides a safe place for them to express themselves. “Everyone is accepting of each other,” Laura said. “If you’re a musician, that’s great; if you’re a beauty queen or a cheerleader or whatever, everyone gets along and supports each other. Campers are encouraged to get up and showcase their talent.” For example, camper Nikki Klein appeared quiet and reserved, but when it came time to show off her talent, she came to life behind a drum set. “I was completely blown away by her talent,” Laura said. “She was so comfortable that at one point she started to jam with two other campers. That was her moment.” Laura has attended YMCA camps since age 12, later serving as a college leader and now returning as camp director for the girls. She knows firsthand how camp can positively impact a teen’s life. “When they go home, I see them changed and begin to be comfortable with who they are,” Laura said. “It may also get them over the ‘hump’ in the next school year to go up and talk to someone they may not have approach in the past. Based on their camp experience, they’re willing to get out of their comfort zone and take risks.” Pictures
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