Manitoba Camping Association

2017

Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/819804

Contents of this Issue

Navigation

Page 1 of 11

2 MANITOBA CAMPING ASSOCIATION May 4, 2017 For more info, visit mbcamping.ca Camp = Life. Life = Camp. I t's a simple, succinct slogan, but it communicates the importance of the camp experience, which creates positive effects that can last a lifetime. Kim Scherger, executive director of the Manitoba Camping Association, breaks down the word "L-I-F-E" into an acronym to express some of the benefits of attending camp: Learn respect, Improve self-confidence, Feel a sense of community and Enjoy new experiences. "These are some of the important things that make up life. It's not just for younger children but older children and family units too," she said. "There are even staff members who used to be campers. They have learned so many leadership attributes at camp. In turn, they have gone on to do some great things in their lives." In Manitoba, families can choose from more than 30 different camps. But many parents wonder how to narrow their options and find the perfect fit for their child. "We never recommend a specific camp because it's totally up to the person and what their personal needs are," Scherger said. "They might want to consider the distance away, the type of activities, whether there's a waterfront or a pool. They might want some of the more extreme activities or the more traditional camp activities." To help with the selection process, the Manitoba Camping Association website (mbcamping.ca) contains a section that lists activities to choose from. Parents can check off the activities that they want at their child's camp, such as archery, mountain biking and horseback riding. They can also indicate whether they prefer day camp or overnight camp. Then they will see all the camps that meet their criteria displayed on a map of the province. As part of the decision-making process, parents should take the time to do their research and find out information that is important to them. "You should educate yourself as a parent on the camp that you're sending your kid to and don't ever worry about asking questions. Camp directors should be able to answer those questions with no problem at all. In fact, I think most camp directors like it when parents ask questions," said Scherger, who speaks from experience as the former executive director of Luther Village youth and family camp. "You can ask about the training, expertise and ages of the staff. You can find out whether the camp is accredited because that is a deal-breaker for some people. You should make sure to ask the right questions based on what is important to you and your family." Through the Manitoba Camping Association, the Sunshine Fund gives the gift of camp to children whose families might not be able to otherwise afford it. Each year, about 700 kids receive funding to go to camps in Manitoba and northwestern Ontario, where they can participate in healthy recreational activities. "For the kids who get to go to camp through the Sunshine Fund, that might be their only time," Scherger said. "This is their experience to be in the great outdoors and learn about the land and the stars and the water. It's a gift to learn about nature." Some camps offer programs for children as young as seven years old all the way up through the teen years. Camp opportunities are also available for families who would like to share the experience together. "I'm a firm believer in camp. I grew up going to camp, starting as a family camper. I caught my first fish at camp," Scherger said. "These are little experiences that you have as a child and you make it a part of your culture. Camp equals life for everybody." ❚ Camp creates lifelong memories By Jennifer McFee for the Free Press

Articles in this issue

Archives of this issue

view archives of Manitoba Camping Association - 2017