CYO Outdoor Ministry

December newsletter

2011-12-08T15:41:00.001-08:00

Our December newsletter is now available to read. Find out more about what is going on at Camp right now and if your still looking for that perfect Christmas present? Learn how to give the gift of a session at CYO summer camp! Click here to read the newsletter.

Please click here to subscribe to receive our monthly newsletter and get the most up to date information about CYO camps.

Megan Raymond: New Director of CYO Camp Services

2011-11-21T15:50:00.000-08:00

The Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry is excited to announce the hiring of Megan Raymond as our Director of CYO Camp Services! After completing an open hiring with candidates from across the country, the hiring committee unanimously saw Megan as the right candidate to lead our summer camps and environmental education programs in the years to come. During her time as Interim Director this fall she has worked tirelessly to lay the foundation for an amazing and successful summer and a flourishing future. Her dedication to CYO has been a blessing to see.

Megan has been a part of the CYO community since she first went to camp at age eight. She worked seasonally for CYO during high school and college. Having gotten her degree in Ecological Studies, she spent a few years working full time for Camp Fire USA and then the YMCA. Since 2006 she has been working full time for the Archdiocese in our Environmental Education and Summer Camp programs . Her history with CYO, experience in the camp industry, and love of Jesus Christ and His Church will serve her well in her new role and allow her to hit the ground running.

We are blessed to have Megan leading our team and hope that you will welcome her into her new role.

Why is Camp Gallagher Not Open for 2012?

2011-11-14T16:29:00.000-08:00

This is a question many people have, and we would like to answer. Last year CYO camping was in a hard financial situation. Camp registration numbers had been dropping significantly over recent years, and with it, a drop in revenue. An internal audit was done of the camp services department because it was significantly over budget. It became clear that CYO Camp Services could no longer operate three summer camp sites and have the costs associated with those properties. As a step towards financial stability, Camp Gallagher was mothballed so resources could be focused on the other two camp properties. By closing Camp Gallagher for residential summer programming CYO was able to save a significant amount of money last summer.

This summer we served 1256 campers, while needing 1590 to break even. Even with reducing our costs and changing our pricing structure in most programs, we still fell short by $81,787.24. The camp services department worked hard to bridge this gap, looking at both what needed to be done with the remainder of this fiscal year and how to proceed in the next. To overcome the budget shortfall for this fiscal year, three full time positions were combined into one full time position which will be supported by two new seasonal positions.

When the camp schedule and programming for this summer were being determined we analyzed the ability to open Camp Gallagher for residential camps this summer. We looked at a variety of options for how this could work. We looked at opening it up fully, opening for part of the summer and having Hamilton open part of the summer so as to share one staff, and a variety of other options. None would have been fiscally responsible in the end. Unfortunately CYO will not be able reopen Camp Gallagher until it is a financially viable option. The fiscal health of the entire Camp Services department needs to be solid prior to reopening the property for residential use.

While it is not currently home to a full residential camp, we are currently able to use Camp Gallagher as a Nanamakee launch point and campsite. We can do this because we do not need to open any of the buildings for use by the Nanamakee campers and the staff needs are significantly smaller. We all long for the day when Camp Gallagher will be brimming with campers once again. Until that day, it is currently being maintained by our maintenance department with the help of a site staff member from another Archdiocesan facility that lives close to the property. General maintenance is still happening onsite to ensure that the property is maintained in good working condition.

--The CYO Camp Services Staff

(Shawn, Megan, Sarah and Debbie)

CYO is Blogging Again!

2011-11-09T09:56:00.000-08:00

Here is our first blog since March of last year. We'll be posting more regularly on the blog to keep you upto date about the latest information about CYO Summer Camps.

High School Catholic Youth Convention
Last weekend we represented CYO Camping at the annual Archidocesan High School Convention ran through our office. We had a great time letting everyone know about why they should come to camp this summer. We had a huge wooden sign, camp chairs, and handed out glow in the dark wrist bands that had our theme for the summer printed on them. A big shout out to our volunteers Lauryn Wirtala, Joe Christianson, and Mary-Kate White. There is another convention this spring for Junior High Youth. If you are interested in helping us man our booth please email cyo@seattlearch.org.

CYO high school campers and staff at convention

Work Party at Bosco

2011-03-25T14:49:00.000-07:00

Don't forget about our work party at Bosco this Sunday 12:30-5:30pm! Come help get camp ready for summer, then gather at the campfire circle to sing some camp songs.

2011-02-16T10:36:00.000-08:00

Check out what's new at CYO
Sno Sno!

CYO Summer camp monthly newsletter

2011-02-08T11:50:00.000-08:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/CYO-Camp-Services-Newsletter.html?soid=1101443125495&aid=CXPID6dK7fk

Triple Digits!

2011-02-04T17:06:00.000-08:00

Woo hoo! We're at 122!

Progress!!!

2011-01-27T13:22:00.000-08:00

We are steadily on the rise! With the brochure going out to schools, we hope to see this sky rocket! Thanks for your help and support in our recruitment efforts. God is good- we can do it!!!

2011-01-26T15:06:00.000-08:00

The 2011 Summer Camp Brochure is Now Available Online!

Click here to View the Brochure

The brochure will be delivered to all Catholic schools in the next few weeks, so keep an eye out for your camper bringing it home. If you have been a camper in the last few years, look for the brochure in your mailbox at home in the coming week! If you don't get a brochure in the next few weeks, we'd be happy to send you one. Just give us a call! Thanks to Jon Vlasak for doing a great job on our brochure.

Help CYO Reach it's Goal for 2011!

2011-01-20T19:50:00.000-08:00

2011 Camp Registration is Open!

2011-01-10T15:02:00.000-08:00

http://seattleoyyam.org/programs/cyo-camp-services/summer-camp

Now Hiring for 2011!

2010-12-21T10:24:00.000-08:00

Read about spring and summer employment opportunities and download an application packet by following this link.
http://seattleoyyam.org/programs/cyo-camp-services/jobs-at-cyo-camp

CYO Survey

2010-11-17T11:46:00.000-08:00

Hey all! We are gathering new creative ideas for High School programming at Camp Hamilton and Nanamakee. Take our survey to share your new ideas. Click here to take our survey.

2010-11-11T14:48:00.000-08:00

CYO is working hard as a community to develop refreshed marketing ideas. Part of that is the development of a new CYO slogan that captures who we are as a community: the strength of our community, traditions, history, and programming all rooted in and building our Catholic faith. The idea to come up with a new slogan has come from many different groups at the same time and so we want everyone's input. We’re looking for a phrase that encompasses what CYO is and what it does. A brand logo or slogan that will resonate with the many audiences for our programming, such as Alumni, Parents, Youth Ministers, Teachers, Teens etc. Our goal would be to use this slogan for a couple of years, not just for 2011. We will take all of the ideas generated here and elsewhere to the marketing task-force to use as we move forward. What do you think the new slogan should be and why? We are on a timeline to get our messaging out as soon as possible, so please give us your thoughts over the next couple days as posts on our facebook wall.

www.facebook.com/cyosummercamp

Recapping the Bellarmine Meeting

2010-11-11T10:56:00.000-08:00

Below you will find the letter from Greg Bachmeier who attended the meeting of concerned community members at Bellarmine High School last Sunday. He does a great job of recapping the context of the decision around the changes for summer 2011 and summarizes the brainstorming and work that was accomplished by the group.

We want to thank all of the community members who attended, or wanted to attend but could not. Together with the leaders of the small groups, we will work together to implement some of the ideas, brainstorm more creative solutions, and continue to strive toward making 2011 a successful year for the CYO!

As a side note, Youth Convention was really successful! We spoke to over 1,500 teens about CYO summer camping and ramped up the excitement for next summer! Thank you to all of the volunteers who came to share their passion for camp!

Greg's Letter:

To the CYO Community:
First of all we would like to thank all of you who were able to make it to the meeting on Sunday at Bellarmine. It was so inspiring to see such a dedicated group of campers, staff, parents, alumni and friends ready to help CYO summer camping and especially Camp Gallagher. We had about 80 people in attendance from as far away as Spokane, Moses Lake, Portland, Everett and Seattle, all for a common purpose. While much of the news shared during the meeting was not what was expected or hoped for, take strength from the fact that, though the problems facing CYO Summer Camp are large, it is within out power to solve them.
The meeting began with a summary of the conversation we had with Rick Fersch regarding the announcement made by Shawn Madden, followed by questions from the group and a brainstorming session.

A conversation with Rick Fersch:
On Friday, November 5, we met with Rick Fersch regarding the e-mail sent out on Monday which announced:
For the summer of 2011 we will be housing all of our camping programs out of Camps Hamilton and Don Bosco and not utilizing the Gallagher property. By doing this, we can use the funds that are freed up to do a lot with regards to enhanced programming and facilities care. (Shawn Madden, Archbishop‘s Delegate to the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry)

After retiring as president of Eddie Bauer, Rick Fersch began working for the Archdiocese eight years ago in a stewardship and fundraising capacity. In April of 2010 he was asked by the Archbishop to step in at the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry (OYYAM) to help ascertain the financial situation of summer camping ministries and their facilities. In August of 2010 the current Delegate of the Archbishop for OYYAM resigned, and the Archbishop named Rick as the interim Delegate, a position he will hold through calendar year 2011. Shawn Madden was hired in October 2010 as the new Delegate, but as he will be moving with his family from Kansas City and then learning his way around a new organization, Rick‘s involvement will continue throughout the transition.

Since he began with OYYAM, Rick has been working on clarifying and understanding the general financial picture of the Archdiocese‘s youth ministries, but with a specific focus on the summer camping programs and their facilities, due to high annual budget deficits over the past several summers. While Rick clearly stated that summer camps are a ministry first and don‘t need to make a profit, the Archdiocese cannot subsidize their losses at the current level—they must be a self-sustaining ministry. There are many reasons why no one had an accurate sense of the dire financial status of the summer camping program, but what is more important is the cause of this situation: low camper enrollment. The peak year for enrollment was in 2003 with 2,300 kids attending the 3 residential programs as well as Nanamakee. Since 2003 there has been a steady decline in camper enrollment down to last year‘s low of 1,300 (1,100 when leaving out day-camp which did not exist in 2003).

While 1,000 fewer kids are coming to camp every summer, the costs associated with running camp have increased, leaving us in the current situation, annual losses of a few hundred thousand dollars. Using models which factor in the cost of running each individual camp and anticipated enrollment, Rick along with Sarah Humlie, Director of CYO Camp Services, Tom East, a camper parent and ministry consultant, Rick‘s assistant, Brian Harrington, as well as Tauno Latvala and Bridget Harris of OYYAM, developed a plan for the coming summer. The goal was to bring financial stability back to the organization while continuing to provide youth ministry through summer camps. The decision they reached was to consolidate all summer camp programming at Camps Hamilton and Bosco, leaving Gallagher unused for summer 2011.
In order for the CYO to ―break even‖ (or simply lose less money), camper enrollment has to increase to at least 1,560. The simple fact is that Bosco and Hamilton are larger facilities that can accommodate more campers. They are also used year round, making them more difficult to close for a summer and more expensive to operate and maintain whether or not there are campers. Camp Don Bosco can serve approximately 1,300 campers, Camp Hamilton about 700, Camp Gallagher 300. Reaching the minimum enrollment necessary with just Hamilton and Gallagher open is impossible, and while completely filling Bosco and Gallagher could yield 1,600 campers, the cost of maintaining the Hamilton property (whether it hosts programming or not) causes that minimum enrollment number to increase dramatically.
Lower capacity, usability only 3 months out of the year, and the fact that unless Gallagher is full every session, it also loses money (as it has over the past few summers), are some of the factors that resulted in the decision to ―mothball‖ Gallagher for this summer. Moving the high school programming away from Camp Gallagher for summer 2011 was not a simple decision, but one based on the financial and logistical realities of the situation. It was a decision aimed at securing the future of CYO Summer Camps in the long term. While the thought of missing a summer at Gallagher is painful and sad, the simple fact remains that if the coming summer is not a complete success—camper enrollment of 1,560, reduced costs, campers excited about their experience and ready to sign up next summer—the archdiocese will very likely stop subsidizing the losses of the summer camping programs and close all three facilities.

In addition to deciphering the financial position of the organization Rick also conducted a reorganization of the office personnel in order to maximize efficiency and accountability. The current structure of the summer camping elements of the larger OYYAM, more closely resembles the structure of the past.
 Director of Camp Services (Sarah Humlie) oversees all aspects of CYO Summer Camping
 Associate Director of Youth & Family Camping (Megan Raymond) is responsible for programming at the residential camps as well as the Nanamakee tripping program
 Assistant Director of Youth & Family Camping (Jamie Fredrickson) will assist in planning and orchestrating the summer program
 Assistant Director of Guest Services & Facility Maintenance (Shaune Randles) is responsible for coordinating all user groups and overseeing maintenance at the camps.
Summer camp remains part of the larger Office for Youth and Young Adult Ministry, which is overseen by the Archbishop‘s Delegate, currently Rick Fersch, but transitioning to Shawn Madden. If you have specific questions about the decision regarding Gallagher, or the state of the CYO, you can find contact information at the Seattle Archdiocese‘s new webpage:

http://www.seattlearchdiocese.org/OYYAM/default.aspx.

Where we go from here:
The solution to saving CYO summer camp: get kids to come to camp. The challenge of making this happen is the subject of much discussion. Meeting the minimum enrollment level keeps the CYO afloat, but to thrive, and ensure that camps never have to close again we need 2000 kids coming to camp this summer. To deal with the many challenges facing the organization in the coming summer, the office staff have enlisted concerned and dedicated alumni to participate in a variety of task forces. One of these groups will assist in marketing the camps, another planning an adapted high school program to be run at Camp Hamilton, and a third group focusing on Catholic identity. The decision not to utilize the Gallagher property for this summer is a very recent development and many decisions have yet to be made, including the possibility of Gallagher as a point of departure for an expanded Nanamakee program.

In addition to getting more kids to camp, there is a great need for help in fixing and beautifying the camps in order to heighten the camper experience and make an impression on potential donors. The question of fundraising has been asked often and genuinely, and there is definitely a need to raise funds to build the scholarship fund and repair the facilities, but a major fundraising campaign at this point would be premature. With the organization currently losing a substantial amount of money on a yearly basis, fundraising for operating costs would be a stop-gap measure. However, this summer is a chance to prove the viability and value of the summer camping program so that when an organized and well-planned fundraising effort begins next year, it can be even more successful. In the meantime, if people are willing to support CYO summer camp financially, ask them to sponsor a child to come to camp. Better yet, have them find a kid and sign them up.
From its beginnings in 1950 to the recent past, the CYO has largely been an organization built through the dedication and sweat equity of volunteers. Recently this has not been the case, but whatever the reasons for this we need to return to a more volunteer oriented organization. As current and former staff members and campers, parents, or simply friends, it is up to us to band together to find ways to support the CYO summer camps in a manner that best matches our skills and abilities. To this end, we are working to form a strong and active Alumni and Friends of CYO group so that we can rally the many hearts and hands that share a love of the CYO. In addition to providing our time and efforts to better the properties through our bodies, a strong and active group of Alumni and Friends can use one voice to call for positive change within the CYO and help steer its course during these challenging times. It is our role and responsibility as those whom CYO Summer Camps have impacted, to work for a better future.

Sno, Sey, Wa, Yo!
Stephanie & Greg Bachmeier

Outcomes of the brainstorming sessions:
After recounting our conversation with Rick Fersch and answering some questions, the large group broke into smaller teams to provide feedback and brainstorm ideas in 6 different areas: fundraising, marketing, high school programing at Hamilton, middle school and elementary programming, response to the Gallagher situation, and cost cutting ideas. Every team got to share their thoughts on each of the topics, the results of those conversations is below.

Responding to the Closing of Gallagher:
Save Gallagher
Fill Camp:
 300 campers, pre-registration, group early registration
 End all girls?
 Align with school and sport schedules (to a degree)
Volunteer staff
Change waiting list
Fundraising!
Talk to Archbishop: Inform, Send Letters
Fight for reconsideration
Take out Leroy‘s and build a new lodge
Look at dates
NO ―eyond Gallagher‖session
Stick to a 9 day schedule
Advertise to public schoolers and 8th graders
Work parties
Use Gallagher in the off-season
Ask for repair list
Use Community
Database not just on Facebook
 Google groups
 Website/blog
Camperships—to principals, priests
Fewer sessions
 Pack them
 Juniors and seniors
Market to a broader area:
 Portland
 Canada
 Bellingham
 Spokane
Doesn‘t cost much to open Gallagher: Lots of volunteer work
Overhead costs are not a legit excuse
Lifestyle of Gallagher
Degrade the caliber of a healthy high school camping program
Can we keep Gallagher open AND work on enrollment numbers for the other camps?
How do you provide a high quality overnight experience based out of Gallagher?

Ideas for Cutting Costs:
Grant writing for special programs
Annual Auction:
 Volunteer donations
 Combine with Christmas party
 Seasonal staff work as waiting staff
Ask for Help
Ask for Donations (alumni letters)
Control of Supplies
Cutting food costs (discuss with those who have been under budget successfully)
501 (C) 3
Volunteer staff
Taking inventory before each session to establish min/max requirements for program areas
Have a maintainable budget that is communicated and acceptable
Invoice User Groups
CYO Wishlist
Catalog alumni with specific skills or businesses who are willing to help
Camp Maintence:
 Work Parties—Camper tuition can include (x) amount of service hours
or with (x) amount of service hours (y) discount on tuition
 Advertise work parties - brochure and facebook
 Utilize Parish Youth Groups for service
Friends of the CYO group—help establish healthy relationships with alumni
Bake Sale
Car Wash
Downsize Office Staff:
 Accountability for people who perform poorly
 What do all of those people do?
Carpool to more functions
Private sites for overnights (encourage use of these and attempt to find more)—Gallagher
Don‘t over-staff seasonal staff (allow people to be mobile)
Cut electricity/heating at Hamilton and Bosco
No More Honeybuckets—Bring on the BIFFYS!
Make sure there is no waste of electricity
Charge user groups more
Have Alumni bring in meals for staff training
Proactive

Elementary and Middle School programming:
More sport camps:
 Tap into CYO athletics
 Utilize more facilities
 Coaches
 Different ages
 New sports
 Our niche: enjoy sports with close friends
Feeling of home—consistent friend groups going to camp together
Food
Talented Staff—not afraid to be themselves, enthusiastic and creating connections
Create and sustain camper to camper connections all year round
Theme night!!
Theme Pranks
Field Games—first experiences, being together
Campfire!
At camp promote the next camp (BoscoHamiltonGallagher/Nanamakee)
Magic and Mystery of Camp
Invite kids out to camp during off season for a day of fun camp activities
Why not camp?
 Lack of parent buy-in
 Camp isn‘t ―ool‖
 Afraid to ―isconnect‖and embrace the presence
Do skits and present pictures at mass presentations—include all of our CYO community (current high school campers to older staff. Imagine a 3 generation CYO presentation)
Fishing
Increase the bead program
Faith Programming:
 How to make this fun, deep and relative
 Definitely moving in the right direction over the last few years!
Specialty camps focus more on specialty:
 Secret agent camp
 Culinary camp
 Photo camp
 Science camp
 Fitness camp
High School Programming:
Things Gallagher does well:
 People-oriented
 Freedom
 Friendships
 Place to express your faith comfortably
 Challenges in your faith

 Environmental relationship
 Be yourself
 Time to escape worldly pressures
 Community
 CAMPER INVOLVEMENT
 Trust and responsibility
 FEELING OF ACCOMPLISHMENT
Nanamakee ideas:
 Keep intact camper freedom and involvement in decision making
 More accessible
 Can seem too intimidating
 A very small group of people
 Maybe create 2 tiers of trips: advanced and beginner
 7 night overnights from Gallagher
 Multiple trips at the same time (amazing race possibility)
 Spend day 1 and 8 together at camp
 Biking trips (San Juans, Ranier)
 Hiking trips ( Cascades, Bosco or Hammy base camp)
 Borrow bus from local catholic high schools
If High School programming happens at Hamilton:
 Overnight at Gallagher?
 Utilize the cascades and off property overnights
 Do not operate Middle School and High School Programming at the same time
 Sundown at Seattle Lookout
 New creative wide games (Quidditch)
 Bring the sunfish to Lake Hannan

Fundraising:
Create an entity ―he Friends of the CYO‖that has a say in the happenings of the office:
 Prevent future predicaments from happening
 Keeps alumni involved
Killer Benefit Auction/Concert
 Charge for attendance
 Do it at camp (Damellio Hall?)
 Dinner
 Campfire-ish
 Use seasonal staff to work as wait staff
 Combine with reunion
Benefit concerts at schools
Firstgive.com (google it)
Bake Sale
Accurate alumni and camper lists
Sponsorships
 Plaques
 Graduating classes
Volunteer our time
Calendar/CD sales
Overnights in off-season
 Winter Nanamakee
Camp Apparel that is cool
 Awesome T‘s and Hoodies
 Clarify where money goes
Facebook
Songbook
Marketing Feedback:
 The CYO camping website is confusing to use and hard to find. We would like see a better website.
 The CYO facebook page is under-utilized. That could be a great marketing tool to reach campers and keep them interested.
 See if we can have a teacher at each school as a CYO camp contact. He/she can initiate assemblies, start clubs at the schools, etc.
 Although marketing in the Catholic community is essential and should be a top priority, many children in non-religious environments should be reached as well.
 We need a new brand! Let‘s re-invent the CYO imagine and get a cool slogan. Maybe something like ―o CYO!
1. Make CYO apparel for people to buy such as an online store. Maybe specific tee-shirts, sweatpants, etc. with Go CYO as a tool for fundraising and marketing.
 Kid to Kid communication is important!!
1. Have a point person in each Catholic school (high school level) who can be a contact for other students and get people excited about CYO! ‗
2. Deem a day ―YO day‖at school for campers to wear their CYO apparel
3. Develop CYO extracurricular clubs at high schools – ―YO CLUB‖and give them the tools in which to market to their peers.
4. High schoolers help to make camp sound cool to their peers!
5. Set up school assemblies where high schoolers can talk to their peers about CYO.
A. make skits
B. make a slideshow
C. sing camp songs
6. Get interviews with high school and younger age campers to use as a marketing tool for parents and peers.
7. Have high schoolers go to their grade schools and talk with kids. Younger children really look up to the older ones.
 Ask campers, staff, and the CYO community for photos they have and would be willing to give to the CYO to use as a marketing tool.
 Create an active alumni network. Let‘s get them involved in passing on the word about camp and opening up their checkbooks when needed. We can remind then what camp is all about.
 Have a point person at every parish willing to talk with their church community and give continued talks and reminders about having their kids sign up for camp. It is important to have people within those parishes volunteer because their church communities trust them.
 Have a CYO camp song CD!
 Get CYO songs up on iTunes

 Have staff/volunteers go to schools and parishes and give a presentation with basic information staying consistent.
 It is important to reach primarily parents who have children of younger ages (4-5 years old) because then their kids will hopefully stick with the CYO for awhile. Once they are older they might be hooked on another camp.
 Donate an auction item for 1 free admission to camp. They will most likely invite their friends and not go by themselves! It also is a way to advertise camp to parents at the auction. Additionally, children will hopefully ask their parents to buy the auction item. However, if their parents are unsuccessful, they will probably send their kids to camp anyway.
 Have a program set up to take families out to camp and check it out in the off season.
 Youtube – get some videos out there for kids to watch.
 Blogs – have a cyo blog that campers can write on and share stories about camp!
 Research other successful camps and youth programs to see what they use as their marketing strategy (Young Life).
 Develop partnerships with CYO camps in other parts of the country. Maybe they can give up some tips!
 Have a meeting at Christmas time just like a reunion party. That meeting could be used to remind people to tell their friends about camp and take some flyers etc. to their schools.
 Have count down to camp on the website. Get kids really pumped for the summer!
 Make sure priests are informed about Seattle Catholic Camping.
 Flyers, although a good thing to have, are not the greatest form of getting the word out when used by themselves.
 Get our name/ad sponsored on Google – Seattle camp
 Have a benefit concert! (See Danny)
 Go talk to youth groups
 Bumper stickers – with new brand on it! New Slogan!
 Most high schoolers need to do community service. Have them volunteer to go to other schools and talk about camp. Or get them involved in service projects at camps.
 Survey kids on how camp went as well as parents with what they want and what they don‘t want in a camp for their child. Why wouldn‘t they want their child to go to CYO camp? Is it a question of cost, security or maybe not enough info out there? What makes them want to sign their child up?
 Advertise the new high ropes course a lot.
 Market internationally/multiculturally
 Advertise in other parts of the state. Lots of communities in Eastern Washington for example have no summer camp programs. They would be interested in CYO camps.

To the CYO Camping Community

2010-11-03T16:19:00.000-07:00

The decisions reached about how to proceed with summer 2011 were difficult ones. We don’t discount the feelings of sadness around Gallagher for this summer. We have been excited and encouraged by the groundswell of support for CYO summer camping that has come in response to the November 2nd announcement (see announcement below) about changes occurring for summer 2011. We have been listening to your responses via phone, conversations, and e-mails, and you have shared with us many of the things that you love about Camp Gallagher and about summer camping. Your offers to help are heartening.

We are hopeful about the Archdiocesan passion for the unique and powerful ministry we achieve through our summer camping programs. We are dedicating ourselves to the task of providing high-quality, life-changing, Catholic camping experiences to high school, junior high, and elementary school campers across western Washington. We are striving to fill our camps in order to return our camping program to a thriving and vibrant ministry.

We have much work ahead of us in order to make this happen. With the support of the camping community and the guidance of the Holy Spirit we will succeed! Above all we need advocates for CYO summer camping and we need campers in camp!

How can you help?
If you would like to help in any way, please send us your information (cyo@seattlearch.org) so that we can be partners as we plan for summer 2011 and beyond. If you would like to help us run a booth at Youth Convention this weekend, we need volunteers to speak to the high school teens in attendance! Additionally, we will include information about work parties, other volunteer opportunities, and further information about summer 2011 in upcoming newsletters as well as blog and Facebook posts.

Official Announcement:

Office of the Delegate for Youth and Young Adult Ministry

Archdiocese of Seattle Recommits to Catholic Camping Ministries

In response to significant financial challenges and changing demographics, the Archdiocese of Seattle is implementing changes for summer 2011. These changes build on the dedicated work and leadership of the past sixty years of Catholic camping in the Archdiocese and renew our commitment to children, youth and families through Catholic camping.

To honor the good work that has been done in the past and to provide for Catholic camping into the future, we have had to make difficult but necessary changes that will be implemented for the summer 2011 Catholic Camping schedule.
This summer we will be operating all of our camping programs from Camps Don Bosco and Camp Hamilton.
The rugged high school experience will be continued and expanded through Nanamakee Expeditions.
The property at Camp Gallagher will not be used for summer 2011.

These are significant changes to past camping practices. The loss of summer programming at Camp Gallagher for 2011 is especially challenging for the youth and staff who have experienced tremendous ministry in this beautiful setting. However, focusing on two camp locations for summer 2011 will provide efficiency in both staff and property resources essential to the future of Catholic camping.

In preparation for a refocused 2011 camping season, CYO Camp Services looks forward to working with you to develop and implement these programs. If you are interested in helping and sharing your knowledge going forward, please contact the CYO Camp Services Director, Sarah Humlie at (206) 382-4562 or email: cyo@seattlearch.org.
In Faith,

Rick Fersch
Archbishop’s Interim DelegateOYYAM

"Extra! Extra! Read All About It!"

2010-09-28T10:37:00.000-07:00

Last week was a busy one at Camp Hamilton! Three schools enjoyed the fall mix of rain and sun over the course of their EE experience. Immaculate Conception & Our Lady of Perpetual Help from Everett, St. George from Seattle, and St Pius X from Portland all came out to camp for a very full week of activities. We were also very blessed to have a talented reporter from the Everett Herald come with her son as a chaperone. Julie Muhlstein wrote an article about her experience and about environmental education in the state of Washington. You can read the piece and see some photos at this link:
http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20100926/NEWS01/709269913/0/FRONTPAGE

Next week we look forward to a visit from Chase Lake Elementary from Edmonds. They will be joining us out at camp for a 3 day program.

Are you there Summer? It's me Hamilton.

2010-06-08T15:25:00.000-07:00

So the sun is FINALLY shining here at Hamilton. The Teacher Naturalists, Cooks, and Directors are all glad the sun finall showed up, just in time for summer camp to start. St. Charles and St. Joe's Issaquah are splitting a week here at Hamilton. St. Charles is here from Monday until Wednesday and St. Joe's is partaking in the regular Tuesday through Friday schedule. The staff is enjoying the change of pace. The TNs all hope the sun will continue to shine through our last week at Outdoor Ed. and into the start of the summer season.

It's Raining Again, Hallelujah!

2010-06-03T17:46:00.000-07:00

So it just finished dumping buckets of rain on Lake Hannan and the level of the lake seems to be high and ready for some summer splashing. The Pond was a site of some exciting events caused by the high water level: Salamander eggs!! A group of students found a some goo and discovered an unborn Salamander within. The kids from St. Louise, St. Rose and St. Anthony from Portland were all excited to see the unusual sight. Although the rain continues to plague us, the warmer temperatures are welcome. The Salmonberries and Thimbleberries are starting to ripen and the Vine Maple leaves are stretching out to create the shade we’ll be grateful for in August. The camp looks so different from how it was in April and the staff loves watching the slow transition towards Summer occur.Thankfully the rain stayed away in time for Night Hikes in which the kids will learn about the inner workings of the eye and other night adaptations. SAY HEY SAHALEE!

St. Joe Sno!

2010-06-03T17:35:00.000-07:00

St. Joseph Snoqualmie came to Hamilton to frolic with the beavers and to learn important leadership skills. They roped up and climbed into the Vertical Playpen. The high ropes challenge allowed them to learn valuable leadership skills that will transfer from the outdoors to the everyday. Affirmations, “Cross the Line” and group affirmations allowed the group to grow closer to one another. After a Solo Hike St. Joe’s enjoyed some shelter from the rain with Hot Cocoa by the Fire in Discovery. The students had a chance to learn about leadership, each other, and most importantly, themselves at a fantastic day suspended high above the ground.

San Juan

2010-05-27T14:40:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday we had a motley crew of ten volunteers at Camp Don Bosco. They helped scrape barnacles off of the hull of the San Juan and pine tar it for the upcoming summer season. Thank you for all of your help!

Brian Bradshaw High Ropes Course Dedication

2010-05-27T14:34:00.000-07:00

The dedication on Saturday was a huge success! Thank you to all of the volunteers that helped facilitate the course, provide music, direct traffic and much more. We had over 60 people attend and even made King 5 news that night!

Bradshaw Course Dedication

2010-05-20T16:05:00.000-07:00

Don't forget about the Bradshaw Challenge Course Dedication this Saturday. Here are two articles on the event.

http://blog.thenewstribune.com/military/2010/05/13/a-challenge-for-kids-in-honor-of-fallen-soldier-from-steilacoom-lt-brian-bradshaw/

http://www.seattlearch.org/FormationAndEducation/Progress/SchoolsBradshawChallengeCourse05-20-10.htm

St. Thomas Moore Gives Back

2010-05-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

St. Thomas Moore 7th graders are experiencing a camp focused on Leadership, Service, and building their relationships with Christ. Here's a photo of some of them helping us get the campfire circle cleaned up.

A Week for Wildlife!

2010-05-12T23:31:00.000-07:00

Camp Hamilton has been buzzing with wildlife sightings this week. Students from Sacred Heart, St. Joseph in Vancouver, and St. Benedict have encountered White-tailed deer, a raccoon, and a young Barred owl while trekking around camp. The Barred owl and its mother have been spotted in the trees just outside the doors of Discovery Lodge! The baby owl is spending its days climbing the trees, branch by branch, to strengthen the muscles in its legs and wings, muscles which it will eventually use to take flight!

During evening reflection, a beaver swam away from the bog directly adjacent to the beach. Each student had a chance to see the majestic creature that formed Lake Hannan swimming just a few yards off shore. It was quite an awe inspiring moment.

Brian Bradshaw Memorial Ropes Course

2010-05-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that the dedication for the Brian Bradshaw Memorial Ropes Course is coming up. We would love to have you at Camp Hamilton on May 22. The day will begin with the dedication and blessing at 10:00 am, followed by a reception in Discovery Lodge. The course will be staffed and open for those who want to try it out. Please RSVP to Debbie at debbiefisher@seattlearch.org 206-382-4562.

The Wonders of Creation

2010-04-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

After Easter, the Gospels and readings talk at great length about how the people of Jerusalem and their leaders could not recognize Jesus for who He was. Indeed, after He had first risen, His own disciples did not even recognize Jesus until He spoke to them and revealed His identity.

Just as the disciples discovered Christ in His resurrected form, our students at Camp Hamilton learned to see God in many different ways this week. They discovered God as reflected in the beauty of the Creation surrounding them at camp. They saw God's creativity in the multitude and varieties of the plants and animals that fill our forests, the intricacies of His plan in the complexities of the relationships between the plants and animals, and how He loves and cares for His creatures by providing for all of their needs within their habitat.

Finally, they saw Christ in each other through the friendships and community formed this week at camp. We all shared our care for one another by being supportive and positive group members, sharing our prayers, cleaning up after each other, and cleaning up camp as we went along. We celebrated mass as a faith community to complete our week of Environmental Education before returning home.

A Week for Science and Stewardship

2010-04-29T11:14:00.000-07:00

Environmental Education is in full swing! We have a talented group of teacher-naturalists from across the country working hard to make every student's experience enjoyable and full of learning.

This week, we have almost 100 students from St. Joseph Chehalis, Our Lady of Guadalupe, Holy Family- Lacey, and St. Therese school tromping the trails at Camp Hamilton. Students spent their first day getting to know each other while studying macro invertebrates in our pond. Our first evening was punctuated by the boisterous songs of our campfire echoing across the lake.

Today, they are testing their teamwork and resolve on our climbing wall, learning about WAMO! in our organic garden, and canoeing under the halo of a rainbow on Lake Hannon. At choice time today, we will poise the scientific question: "Does everything really taste better dipped in chocolate?" Stay tuned to find out....

Facebook and Blogging

2010-04-26T10:05:00.000-07:00

We've been trying to keep as up to date as possible on our facebook page, but unfortunately we haven't done that on our blog. So here are the highlights from CYO:

-Adult and Family Camp registration opens May 1st. Check out our website for dates and locations.

-We are still looking for nurses/EMTs for this summer. Pay and a campership included.

-Environmental Education has been underway for a few weeks now. They've had great weather and a great experience so far.

-The Bradshaw High Ropes Course Dedication is only a month away. We would love to see you at the event on May 22nd. To RSVP please email debbie at debbief@seattlearch.org.

Date Change

2010-03-22T13:51:00.000-07:00

When we originally posted about the 60th Aniversary Celebration with the wrong date. The Celebration will be Saturday June 26th.

EE Staff Training is 4 days away!

2010-03-19T14:37:00.000-07:00

We are all super excited to welcome our newest group of Environmental Education staff to Camp Hamilton. They'll spend the next 11 weeks helping students to learn their role in the environment as well as how they are called to be stewards of the Earth.

CYO Summer Camp is now on Facebook!

2010-03-17T11:36:00.000-07:00

We have slowly been taking steps toward being more inline with current technology and today we have finally created a facebook fan page. This page will give you up to date information about CYO Summer Camp. We will be posting information about our 60th Anniversary Celebration coming up on June 28th from 4pm-9pm at Camp Hamilton. RSVP by emailing us at cyo@seattlearch.org (please include any food allergies). Also we are asking people to submit stories and photos to our facebook page as a way of archiving the last 60 years of camping.

Click on the link to the left to see our fan page!

CYO Office

2010-03-10T12:23:00.000-08:00

Sorry we haven't posted in a while. Aside from summer, spring is a really busy season for us. Environmental Education is only weeks away, registration and recruiting staff picks up, as well as our office event Junior High Rally. Rally on Saturday was really successful. We handed out CYO buttons and took photos at our photo booth. When the camera gets unpacked tomorrow I'll post some.

Asking for Your Prayers

2010-02-09T11:27:00.000-08:00

Last Friday we lost Sheila Fisher, mother of our registrar Debbie Fisher. We ask that you keep her and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

E.E. Apparel is Available Online

2010-02-02T20:15:00.000-08:00

The days are getting longer and spring is just around the corner. For many of you fifth and sixth graders, that means Environmental Education camp is also coming up. E.E. t-shirts and sweatshirts are now available for purchase online! We have an exciting new design this season, and the shirts will be handed out when you get to camp. Many of the schools who attend camp will allow the shirt or sweatshirt to be worn as part of the uniform after E.E., but remember to check with your teachers or principal first. If nothing else, it will be a trendy reminder of the fun you had with your classmates in our outdoor classroom!

Ordering online is easy:

1) go to www.stotaninc.com

2) click on "Store"

3) click on "Camps"

4) highlight "CYO Environmental Camp"

You will be directed to the online order form and get to see the color and design before purchasing. The shirts and sweatshirts will be labeled with your name and shipped to camp to be handed out when your school attends E.E.

Remember to order before the deadlines pass! If you attend camp in April, you will need to order by March 1; if you attend camp in May or June, you can order until April 15th.

High School Internships

2010-02-02T10:43:00.000-08:00

The information, application and reference forms for high school internships is available online now at High School Internships.

Summer Staff 2010

2010-01-27T13:23:00.000-08:00

You wouldn't think January would be a busy month for a summer camp. However, summer camp begins registration, Environmental Education is only months away, and CYO summer staff are hired. Jamie and I spend a large portion of January reviewing applications and doing interviews for potential candidates. If you are looking for a rewarding job this summer we are still hiring. Most positions require you to be at least 18 (unless you are a kitchen staff member or lifeguard), but a few like Camp Gallagher staff require you to be 21. Jamie and I both worked at camp while we were going to college and it was a great way to live out Christ's example, have fun, and get paid for it! So if you would like more information click on the link at the right and see if working at camp is for you.

If you are under 16 but in high school we do have a summer internship program. These interns are volunteer employees who gain valuable leadership skills. When I was 15 I was a WIT (which proceeded this program). I still use a lot of the tools I gained during that summer at camp. If you would like more information please email Jamie at jamie.fredrickson@seattlearch.org.

2010 Summer Brochure

2010-01-21T14:10:00.000-08:00

The brochure is completed and is now at the printer. Here is the PDF that you can download and view.

2010 Summer Brochure

What is the Nanamakee Geocaching Trip About?

2010-01-19T10:03:00.000-08:00

So you may have noticed the new Nanamakee Geocaching trip for this summer. We are excited to be offering this trip out of Hamilton to High School aged campers. Geocaching is a treasure hunt that involves hidden treasures that can only be found through clues and the use of a GPS unit. It is a great way to get outdoors and connect with millions of others who geocache around the world.

The week will start at camp with a day of learning how to use the GPS units and searching for caches on the site. After that we hit the road to search for caches at local parks, and some very unlikely locations. We'll also make our own cache to hide and leave a travel bug that we will be able to track as it travels across the county. Check out the picture of Sarah Nasser. Sarah Humlie and I joined her for a very wet geocaching day in Duvall.

Registration Begins

2010-01-13T11:54:00.000-08:00

2010 summer camp registration begins today. We are excited to see the campers begin to sign up for sessions. There has been a lot of activity around Camp Gallagher so sign up soon to reserve a spot. If any of our camp sessions are full please email us at cyo@seattlearch.org to be put on a waitlist or see if there is more space available. Scholarships are available. Click the link on the right to register.

Camp Brochure

2010-01-11T14:26:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Summer Camp Brochure is almost finished! It is in the final revision stage and will soon be sent off to the printer. Check your mailboxes in February.

Bradshaw High Ropes Course

2010-01-05T10:23:00.001-08:00

After about a month of hard labor in the rain, mud, ice, and snow the construction on the Brian Bradshaw Memorial High Ropes Course has been completed. Here are some pictures of the completed course. There will be a video showing the construction over time and a dedication event in the next few months. As you can see from the pictures there is still some work to be completed on the ground, but the construction in the air is done!

Camp Gallagher Camper Reunion and CYO Summer Staff Reunion

2010-01-05T10:16:00.001-08:00

We all got together just before Christmas to remember stories from the summer and to reconnect with friends we made at camp. The reunions were a ton of fun. At the Gallagher Camper Reunion we ate pizza, sang songs and even had some trivia for Camp Gallagher prizes. At the Staff Reunion we made ornaments and shared about how the fall was going. These reunions really kick off our 2010 summer staff hiring. If you are interested in applying for an internship or paid position at any one of our summer camps please click on the link on the right.

New Website!

2010-01-04T13:19:00.000-08:00

We are very excited to launch a new website for the Office for Youth and Young Adult Ministry. We hope that it will help you find current information about our program offerings. The shortcut to the site is www.camping.seattleoyyam.org.

Winter at Camp

2009-12-09T11:37:00.000-08:00

Just like the rest of the northwest Hamilton is really feeling the effects of winter. It is ranging from the teens down into the single digits here. The pond is completely frozen now, as well as a lot of the ground. It almost feels like we have permafrost. The lake is also starting to form a thin layer of ice on the top. The staff are still braving the cold to work on the high ropes course. I'm however, holed up in the camp office with the heat on working on staff training. It was so pretty this morning when I drove in that I snapped these pictures with my camera phone. Hope you're all staying warm!

Camp Gallagher 2010

2009-12-07T14:56:00.000-08:00

Neon sunsets, soft guitar chords and overnight adventures may seem far away during these dark winter days, but at the CYO office, we have been talking a lot about the upcoming summer season. One thing we all agree upon is how special these summer days are, especially at a place like Gallagher. We want to make sure even more campers get to experience its beauty this upcoming summer season.

So as we release the summer 2010 schedule for Gallagher, you may notice some changes. We have extended a special session to graduating seniors, giving more campers one more opportunity to find ways to “Live it up, and live it out” at camp and beyond. For campers who have a busy schedule or limited funds, you can come experience a 6-day Gallagher session. For the first time in years, we are also offering an 11-day session, for even more time at this place we all love so much.

These changes may be surprising to some, but in a changing world, we feel it is important to make sure everyone has an opportunity to come to Gallagher. While Gallagher is a sacred place, where forest meets sea and tradition lives strong, it is also a spirit. It something we live out, carrying God’s love into the world and finding ways to be ourselves in a world trying to make us someone else. So as we dream of summer days, we hope this new Gallagher schedule will bring this spirit to even more campers. Any questions? Just ask! Wa-Wa-Wakikia. See you this summer!

Bradshaw High Ropes Course

2009-12-02T10:27:00.000-08:00

We have lost a dear member of our family this summer. U.S. Army 1st Lt. Brian N. Bradshaw, died June 25 when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle in Kheyl, Afghanistan. Brian joined the CYO family in 2001 working as a dishwasher at Camp Don Bosco. He worked at Bosco the next summer then moved on to Hamilton until 2006. Brian was loud, caring, adventurous and notorious for his impressive mopping skills. He mopped out the Longhouse like no other! Brian's spirit and love for camp showed as he led campers on adventures through the woods as the mountain bike specialist while at Hamilton. He will be deeply missed by the CYO community and will forever be in our circle of friendship, family, and support.

Brian's family decided to support one of Brian's favorite camp activities at Hamilton, the High Ropes Course. With their help we've begun construction on a new course. This course will help campers conquer fears, set goals, and really live out Brian's adventurous spirit. This week we began installation of the poles that will be holding the course. I'll be trying to post updates and photos as the construction process continues.

There's Still Time for Environmental Education 2010

2009-11-19T15:57:00.001-08:00

We still have a few spots left for your school group this spring. Hurry and register for a spot in the only outdoor education program with a Catholic identity in the Northwest!

Also, registration for Environmental Ed next fall has already begun. With temperature averages in the upper 60's and 70's, and days full of sunshine, there's no better time of year to be in an outdoor classroom! Plus, the class unity developed while at camp is a great way to start your school year.

Contact the Environmental Education director, Sarah Humlie for more details about registering.

sarah.humlie@seattlearch.org.

We'll see you outside!

Sneak Peak

2009-11-04T14:58:00.000-08:00

We're all getting very excited for summer 2010 at CYO. Here is a promotional video we made that will be shown at Convention this weekend. The song in the video "Free of Charge" was written and preformed by Gallagher camper Hannah Bergam.

CYO HIGH SCHOOL CAMPS

As the Leaves Fall...

2009-10-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

Immaculate Conception Regional School and Assumption recently enjoyed our last session of Environmental Education for the year. Amidst a rainbow of fall colors and falling leaves, the students tramped through the forest to complete their studies of our local wetlands, wildlife, and forest ecosystem. Students were undeterred by periods of rain, and came well prepared to brave the weather. Fortunately, the rain was punctuated by bursts of sunshine and blue skies, allowing for the chance to canoe across the lake to catch a glimpse of a beaver at work or a fish leaping for its dinner.

The evenings were dry, and underneath starry skies the two schools enjoyed a fascinating night hike and laughter around the campfire. Parents and teachers drove away with the defrost units working overtime, but camp songs could be heard echoing from the students in the back seats of the vehicles! As Environmental Ed comes to a close for the winter, we look forward to an exciting spring with new students and new schools.

American Camp Association Accredidation

2009-10-18T10:12:00.000-07:00

CYO Summer Camps are proud to be accredited by the American Camp Association. This is a voluntary process that involves hundreds of standards ranging from Health and Safety to Transportation and Program Development.

Not only are our sites accredited Jamie and I are both site visitors. This means that a few days during the summer we visit other local camps to insure that they are providing the best possible programming and level of excellence.

If you want more information on the American Camp Association visit their website at http://www.acacamps.org/parents/.

Attention High School Campers!

2009-10-02T09:50:00.001-07:00

The Catholic Youth Convention for high school students is quickly approaching and we encourage all of you to go to our events page and check out their brochure.

Youth Convention

Camp in the Fall

2009-09-29T10:19:00.000-07:00

You might not know it, but camp doesn't really end when the last campers and staff leave camp:

Summer Camp 2010

We are already hard at work planning for next summer. Check back in the next month for our dates and program offerings. Our theme for next summer is Care of God's Creation and we are in the excited with the possibilities this theme offers.

Fall Environmental Education 2009

This fall we have been very excited to offer Fall Environmental Education at Camp Hamilton. The Overlake School in Redmond, St. George from Seattle, and St. Pius from Beaverton, Oregon have already joined us to learn more about creation. We look forward to hosting Immaculate Conception Regional School from Mount Vernon, and Assumption School in Bellingham. If you or your school is interested in more information contact Sarah Humlie at sarah.humlie@seattlearch.org.

Rent One of Our Camps

Camp Don Bosco and Camp Hamilton are great facilities for retreats and leadership development. We still have space available this fall and spring for your non-profit to have a peace filled experience. Cabins are comfortable with heat and electricity and meals are prepared family style. For more information contact Bridget Harris at bridget.harris@seattlearch.org.

Final Words from Hamilton Summer 2009

2009-08-24T17:29:00.000-07:00

The community of believers was of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they had everything in common. With great power the apostles bore witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great favor was accorded them all.

-Acts 5:32-33

We created a special place this summer where campers and staff alike grew and changed together. We worked toward common goals and lived out Christ's example in Christian community. Every member of the community was valued for his or her unique gifts and challenged to use them in service at camp and back in the greater world.

Thanks for a great Summer!

Megan

Camp Hamilton Director

Theme Night and Overnights

2009-08-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

We had a really great outerspace theme night last night. All of the kids dressed up and played games. Today the campers are leaving for their overnights. The weather forcast looks like it will be a great night for star gazing and sunset evening reflections at our lookouts.

6th Session at Hamilton

2009-08-18T23:22:00.000-07:00

6th Session is going great! The sun is shining and the lake is warm. We've been working on getting to know each other and living as a community. This week is off to a great start!

Last Week of CYO Summer Camp 2009

2009-08-13T16:44:00.000-07:00

As hard as it is to believe we are looking at the last sessions of CYO Summer Camp 2009. It's been a great summer and many thanks to all you parents who choice to send your campers to Bosco, Hamilton, Gallagher or Nanamakee. We strive to be one of the finest camping programs in the Pacific Northwest and according to the comments I've received this summer, we are doing just that.

Now onto the important information for Gallagher Session 5, Hamilton Session 6, Day Camp Session 7 and Nanamakee Mad Lake Horse Trip.

Camp Gallagher Session 5 starts Saturday, August 15th.

If you are dropping your camper off at Camp Gallagher: camp drop off starts at 11:30 AM.

Buses for Camp Gallagher will be leaving the Northgate Parking Ride (the one behind the Target Store just NORTH of Northgate)at 9:30am and Kennedy High School at 10:00am. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so we can process all that dreaded paperwork.

Camp Hamilton Session 6 starts Monday, August 17th.

If you are dropping your camper off at Camp Hamilton: camp drop off starts at 10:30am.

Buses for summer camp at Camp Hamilton will be leaving St. Marks, Shoreline (this is right off 15th Ave not the church on the top of Capitol Hill) at 9:30am and Kennedy High School at 10:00am. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so we can process all that dreaded paperwork.

On Monday, August 10th at Camp Don Bosco - Day Camp Session 7 begins:

If you are dropping your camper off at Camp Don Bosco: Day Camp campers should be at camp between 8:00am and 8:30am.

All Day Camp (St Joseph, Sea, St. Madeleine Sophie, Bellevue & St. Anthony, Renton) pickups are at 7:30am - with the drop off being around 5pm each day.

Remember to pack for anything since this is the Pacific Northwest and enjoy the best part of summer in Washington - September :-)

Debbie~

It's Mario Week!

2009-08-11T21:18:00.000-07:00

Session 5 is going great! We had some rain yesterday and this morning, but we're all dry and still having a blast. There was a lot of boating and ultimate frisbee to be played. This week is Mario week and we are having a Mario themed party tonight. Check out the costumes!

What People Are Saying...

2009-08-09T15:43:00.000-07:00

Hi Megan: As an ex-CYO camper and and ex-CYO Staff member, I was really nervous dropping my son off for his first camp experience at Camp Hamilton on July 31. I have so many wonderful memories of camp, I was hoping and wanting the same experiences for my son. My fears disappeared the moment we drove into camp. The staff were so wonderful greeting us at the car and checking us in. I was truely impressed with that first experience. It was difficult to drive away because I wanted to stay and play, however, it was easy to drive away knowing my son was left in good care... ...Thank you for continuing the exceptional experience that is CYO camping. --4th session parent

Dear Megan,
Thank you for taking care of me and watching over me at camp. I really had a great time this year. You made me feel safe. I hope you have a wonderful summer, and maybe I could come back to Hamilton next summer. Take care of yourself. I loved going to church with you. --3rd session camper

Another Busy Weekend for CYO Camping

2009-08-07T13:16:00.001-07:00

The next three days are extremely busy for CYO camps. Camp Don Bosco Session 5 ends tomorrow, Saturday, August 8th. The pick up time for parents picking up campers at the camp is between 10am and 11am. The bus should roll into Kennedy High School at around 11:30am and then St. Marks at around noon.

Camp Hamilton Session 6 starts Sunday, August 9th.

If you are dropping your camper off at Camp Hamilton: camp drop off starts at 10:30am.

Buses for summer camp at Camp Hamilton will be leaving St. Marks, Shoreline (this is right off 15th Ave not the church on the top of Capitol Hill) at 9:30am and Kennedy High School at 10:00am. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so we can process all that dreaded paperwork.

On Monday, August 10th at Camp Don Bosco

If you are dropping your camper off at Camp Don Bosco: Camp Don Bosco Resident camp drop off starts at 10:00 and Day Camp campers should be at camp between 8:00am and 8:30am.

Buses for resident summer camp at Camp Don Bosco will be leaving St. Marks, Shoreline (this is right off 15th Ave not the church on the top of Capitol Hill) at 9:30am and Kennedy High School at 10:00am. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so we can process all that dreaded paperwork.

All Day Camp (St Joseph, Sea, St. Madeleine Sophie, Bellevue & St. Anthony, Renton) pickups are at 7:30am - with the drop off being around 5pm each day.

Hope everyone is enjoying the cooler weather - and remember to pack for anything since this is the Pacific Northwest!

Session 4 at Hamilton

2009-08-01T09:44:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone! Hamilton is in full swing and we are very excited about the session. Our theme for the day is Servant Leadership and living the example Jesus set for us to follow.

We also are very excited for our first Tatanka Expedition! They leave tomorrow to explore the Wildsky Wilderness.

Busy Weekend for CYO Camping

2009-07-31T11:38:00.000-07:00

The next three days are extremely busy for CYO camps. Camp Hamilton Session 4 starts today, Camp Gallagher and Nanamakee Session 4 starts on Sunday, August 2nd and Camp Don Bosco session 5 starts on Monday along with our 5th session of Day Camp.

On Sunday, August 2nd for Gallagher/Nanamakee Session 4:

If you are dropping your camper off at Camp Gallagher on Sunday, drop off starts at 11:00am.

Buses for Camp Gallagher will be leaving St. Marks, Shoreline (this is right off 15th Ave not the church on the top of Capitol Hill) at 9:30am, Kennedy High School at 10:00am and Bellarmine Prep at around 10:30am. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so we can process all that dreaded paperwork.

On Monday, August 3rd at Camp Don Bosco

If you are dropping your camper off at Camp Don Bosco: Camp Don Bosco Resident camp drop off starts at 10:00 and Day Camp campers should be at camp between 8:00am and 8:30am.

Buses for resident summer camp at Camp Don Bosco will be leaving St. Marks, Shoreline (this is right off 15th Ave not the church on the top of Capitol Hill) at 9:30am and Kennedy High School at 10:00am. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so we can process all that dreaded paperwork.

All Day Camp (St Joseph, Sea, St. Madeleine Sophie, Bellevue & St. Anthony, Renton) pickups are at 7:30am - with the drop off being around 5pm each day.

Enjoy the weekend and have fun packing for camp!

Swim Across the Lake!

2009-07-27T12:25:00.000-07:00

It is pretty hot here at Hamilton and we are all being very mindful to drink lots of water and wear sunscreen. Here's a photo of the first Swim Across the Lake of the summer. We're having tons of fun and we'll see you tomorrow!

The Sun is Shining on Hamilton

2009-07-24T14:23:00.000-07:00

Hello from Camp Hamilton!

The sun has finally broken through the clouds and the campers are enjoying the great weather. We've been hiking, boating, swimming and also doing a service project today. We're looking forward to a Peter Pan based theme night tonight.

Yesterday we went through our American Camp Association accreditation site visit. This is a day were the site visitors tour our camp facilities and check that we follow national camping standards. We had an excellent visit and are proud to be affiliated with the American Camp Association. www.acacamps.org

Camp Don Bosco - Session 4 Starts on Monday!

2009-07-17T13:26:00.000-07:00

As hard as it is to believe we are already on looking at the 4th week of camp for Camp Don Bosco to start on Monday, July 27th.

If you are dropping your camper off at Camp Don Bosco: Camp Don Bosco Resident camp drop off starts at 10:00 and Day Camp campers should be at camp between 8:00am and 8:30am.

Buses for resident summer camp at Camp Don Bosco will be leaving St. Marks, Shoreline (this is right off 15th Ave not the church on the top of Capitol Hill) at 9:30am and Kennedy High School at 10:00am. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so we can process all that dreaded paperwork.

All Day Camp (St Joseph, Sea, St. Madeleine Sophie, Bellevue & St. Anthony, Renton) pickups are at 7:30am - with the drop off being around 5pm each day.

Enjoy the weekend and have fun packing for camp!

Fun, Sunshine, and Humble Service

2009-07-16T09:45:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Camp Hamilton on this beautiful sunny morning. This has been a busy session so far with ministry hikes, horseback riding, plenty of time swimming and boating in the lake, and lots of other activities. This session we're talking about what it means to be a "humble servant" and how to live that our in our lives here at camp and at home. With the weather so nice all the campers and staff are looking forward some time on the climbing wall, a little archery, and maybe a hike up to the Hobbit House. Check back soon to see what other fun things the campers and staff at Hamilton are up to.

Camp at Hamilton has been Amazing!

2009-07-10T09:06:00.000-07:00

So I apologize for not posting the last few days. The internet at camp is not always very fast, so I couldn't get a picture to load. Anyway camp is going really well.

We had an epic game of sticks (like capture the flag). The campers defeated the staff 3:0. They worked well together as a team.

We didn't get any rain on the overnight and the campers had a blast making smores and building forts.

We have had some powerful faith sharing sessions focusing on gifts and how to use our gifts to serve others.

The sun finally came out today and we are all looking forward to swimming!

I hope you've had a great week like we have and we look forward to seeing you all at pick up tomorrow.

Camp Hamilton

2009-07-07T07:25:00.001-07:00

Good Morning from Camp Hamilton!

Camp is underway at Hamilton and things are going great. It was raining off and on yesterday, but we still had a rocking campfire and some great games.

We had our first sunrise activities of the summer. At Hamilton Campers can chose to wake up early and do some choice activities, like a polar bear swim, a morning jog, or singing on the porch. Check out the picture of our first polar bear swim!

Camps Don Bosco, Hamilton & Day Camp Starts!

2009-07-02T16:24:00.000-07:00

Summer truely is here with the 4th of July right around the corner and the first sessions at Camp Don Bosco, Hamilton and Day Camp starting on Monday, July 6th.

If you are dropping your camper off at Camp Hamilton please make sure to be there between 10:30am and 11:30am. Camp Don Bosco Resident camp drop off starts at 10:00 and Day Camp campers should be at camp between 8:00am and 8:30am.

Buses for resident summer camp at Camp Don Bosco & Camp Hamilton will be leaving St. Marks, Shoreline at 9:30am and Kennedy High School at 10:00am. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so we can process all that dreaded paperwork.

All Day Camp (St Joseph, Sea, St. Madeleine Sophie, Bellevue & St. Anthony, Renton) pickups are at 7:30am - with the drop off being around 5pm each day.

Enjoy the 4th of July and hope to see you out at camp this summer :-)

Camp Gallagher Starts On July 2nd!!

2009-07-01T18:40:00.000-07:00

As the summer really starts to take form our first group of campers will be heading off to camp tomorrow, Thursday, July 2nd. The weather should be great for the first session of the summer.

If you are dropping a child off at Camp Gallagher please have them there between 11 and 11:30am. The buses will be leaving St. Mark's at 9:30am, Kennedy High School at 10:00am and Bellarmine Prep at 10:30am. Please allow some extra time before the departure time so we may process the dreaded paperwork :-)

Bon Voyage Gallagher Campers!

We need you!

2009-06-15T11:11:00.000-07:00

Reaching New Heights Campaign Extended to July 15th
Camp Hamilton's old high ropes course, which is a vital part of our programming, will not be useable this summer. We've already raised $2,255 toward the new course as of June 15th. We need of your help to fundraise the additional $1,800 for a new Vertical Playpen Element. $5, $10, $15, or $50 any amount helps! Over 500 campers will experience the new element this summer alone. This element will help teach campers cooperation, goal setting, and problem solving. The highest fundraising team or page will get to name the new element. Anyone who donates over $100 will get recognized on a plaque at the course.

Welcome EE Schools!

2009-06-03T10:27:00.001-07:00

Welcome to a beautiful week at EE St. Charles, Assumption, St. Anthony Tigard, and Evergreen!

Welcome EE Schools!

2009-05-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks for a great week All Saints Puyallup, St Rose, St. Michaels Olympia, and Holy Family Auburn! A special shout out to St. Rose, my alma mater!

Work Parties!

2009-05-20T15:35:00.000-07:00

Come help get camp ready for summer. Camp Gallagher and Camp Hamilton will be having their work parties Saturday May 30th at 10am. Please RSVP to sarah.casaletto@seattlearch.org for the Gallagher work party and megan.raymond@seattlearch.org for the Hamilton work party. It will be tons of fun. promise.

Check out Hamilton's evite for the party.
http://www.evite.com/pages/invite/viewInvite.jsp?inviteId=VUCWYDTIRTNQZTSFWTMD&li=iq&src=email&trk=aei6

Welcome EE Schools!

2009-05-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

Welcome Holy Family Kirkland, St. Louise, and Sacred Heart Bellevue. Also a big welcome back to former CYO staff Gena McReynolds, Paula Patterson, and Jeff Glasser.

Because of Camp

2009-05-13T14:42:00.000-07:00

I developed lasting friendships...
I learned self-esteem...
I became a team player...
I learned how to care...
I became a counselor...
We Went to Camp. Shouldn't You?

Emma Roberts, Hill Harper, Lisa Loeb, Kerri Strug, Michael DeLorenzo, Justin Chambers, Paul Adelstein, James Pickens, Blair Underwood, Sharon Lawrence, Frank Sesno, Glynn Turman, Ashlan Gorse, and Lisa Raye share how their lives have changed Because of Camp…™.

Camp provides children with the opportunity to connect with nature, to participate in human powered activities, and to benefit from personal and primary relationships. Because of Camp...™ so much is possible.

This PSA Campaign is made possible, in part, by generous funding from the Legacy Fund sponsored by the Association of Independent Camps and the Lilly Endowment Inc.

Welcome EE Schools!

2009-05-12T08:34:00.001-07:00

Welcome St. Thomas More, St. Joesph Vancouver, Holy Family Lacey, and St. Thomas More - 7th Grade.

Welcome EE Schools!

2009-05-11T15:11:00.001-07:00

Welcome St. Joseph Snoqualmie 7th grade!

Welcome EE Schools!

2009-05-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

Welcome St. Philomena, St. Johns and St. Patricks.
Jamie would like to give a special shout out to her old 6th grade teacher Skip Butler from St. Pats: "Have fun playing capture the flag!"

Reaching New Heights Campaign

2009-05-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

www.firstgiving.com/cyo

Camp Hamilton's old high ropes course, which is a vital part of our programming, will not be useable this summer. We are in need of your help to fundraise $20,000 to replace it with a new Vertical Playpen Element and to update our challenge equipment. Over 500 campers will experience the new element this summer alone. This element will help teach campers cooperation, goal setting, and problem solving. The highest fundraising team or page will get to name the new element. Anyone who donates over $100 will get recognized on a plaque at the course.

Open Houses at Camp Don Bosco & Camp Hamilton

2009-05-01T14:55:00.000-07:00

Wondering what the camp looks like? Want to meet the directors? Do you have questions regarding what your child will be doing during their time at camp? Then come to one of our Open Houses at either Camp Don Bosco or Camp Hamilton. The dates this year are Sunday, May 31st from 10 AM to 4 PM and Saturday, June 27th from 1 - 4 PM. This is a great way for you and your child to see the camp together and get the answers to the questions you may have. No need to RSVP - just show up with good walking shoes. See you there!

Summer Camp Job Openings

2009-04-30T14:35:00.000-07:00

Camp Don Bosco is still looking for a few dynamic people to work at camp this summer! Open positions include: challenge course facilitator, cabin leader, lifeguard, office, and lodge leader. If you or anyone you know would be a great fit at camp see our website www.seattlearch.org/cyo for an application. See you this summer!

New Calendar

2009-04-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

We are excited about our new calendar at the bottom of the blog. This will enable us to give you daily updates about CYO Outdoor Ministry. It has the most up to date information about our spring and summer programs including grades, programs offered, and if there are still spots available.

Welcome EE School!

2009-04-29T11:25:00.000-07:00

Camp Hamilotn welcomes Visitation, St Benedicts, Holy Rosary Tacoma, St. Joe Chehalis and ICRS schools to our Environmental Education program this week. Have fun!!

Hello from CYO!

2009-03-31T12:25:00.000-07:00

Summer camp is right around the corner and we are getting camp ready for the hundreds of campers that will play in the pool, swim in the lake, and sail on the Puget Sound! This blog will be regularly updated with information, and resources. Our hope is to be able to communicate the most accurate information to you as quickly as possible. As you follow links through this blog you will find most or all of our programs represented and easily located.Because this is is still in the early stages of development we ask everyone to help us make this an effective tool. If you find something not working, or have suggestions for how to improve the page, please e-mail them to cyo@seattlearch.org. Although the blog is mostly up, we will have a few pages with errors and inactive links until all the content is developed.As this site develops, we hope it helps everyone find the information they need here and on the main Archdiocese website. We will move more content to this as time goes on, so be sure to use www.seattleoyyam.org as your new first stop for updated information from CYO.

UNDER INTENSE CONSTRUCTION :)

2009-01-30T09:27:00.000-08:00

Hello!

We are just writing to let you know that our blog is under intense construction and will hopefully be finished soon! We are excited to be able to update and reach everyone in our community through this wonderful new site. Until the completion of this site is finished, please visit our main Archdiocesan site at: http://www.seattlearch.org/CYO

Thank you for your patience and we hope to see you soon!

2009-01-06T13:25:00.000-08:00

Contact Us

2007-11-12T09:34:00.000-08:00

For more information about camp please call or email us at
206.382.4562 cyo@seattlearch.org

Registration, scholarship, transportation, payment, and general camp questions
Debbie Fisher: 206.382.4591 debbie.fisher@seattlearch.org

Environmental Education
Sarah Humlie 206.382.4882 sarah.humlie@seattlearch.org

Camp Don Bosco or Day Camp
Jamie Fredrickson at 206.274.3186 jamie.fredrickson@seattlearch.org

Camp Hamilton or Nanamakee Expeditions
Megan Raymond at 206.382.4260 megan.raymond@seattlearch.org

Camp Gallagher
Frances Farrell at 206.382.4846 frances.farrell@seattlearch.org

WORK AT CAMP

2007-11-09T15:10:00.000-08:00

Come spend the spring or summer at one of CYO’s three beautiful Western Washington Camps. Leadership, problem solving, and teambuilding are just a few of the skills you will develop while living and working in a vibrant Catholic Faith Community. This is an experience unmatched by any other.

There is a magic about acamp experience that defies definition. Regardless of your eventual life work, the dynamics of this very personal relationship to children and peers in a beautiful, natural setting will have tremendous value for you always.

Our staff is carefully selected and trained to guide campers through an amazing camp experience. Spend the spring or summer learning and growing personally, professionally and spiritually. And of course, have fun in an incredible outdoor setting. CYO Camp is a wonderful experience that will change your life and the lives of those you serve.

NOW HIRING
Spring: Teacher Naturalists, Cooks, Challenge Specialists
Summer: Cabin Leaders, Lodge Leaders, EMTs, LPNs, and RNs, Cooks, Wranglers, Lifeguards, Challenge Specialists and more!
archery specialists
nature specialists and more!

WHAT'S THE NEXT STEP?
Download the forms, submit them to cyo@seattlearch.org or CYO 710 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104 and we'll contact you for an interview.

Spring Environmental Education
Information out tomorrow!
Environmental Education Application
Reference Form (please fill out 3)

Summer Staff
New Staff Application
Reference Form (please fill out 2)

Returning Staff Application

These are just a few of the benefits to working at camp:
Nine weeks of room and board
Work with children in an outdoor setting
Be part of a supportive, fun, caring catholic community
Opportunity to gain the kind of resume building skills employers look for - team work, creativity, communication skills, teaching and leadership skills
Prepare yourself for some of life's challenges - how to budget time and money, parenting, adapting to many different personality types, and knowing that many lives that you are impacting
Growth in your personal faith journey
Meet new people and form lasting friendships
Have the best time of your life

Nanamakee 2010

2007-11-05T11:36:00.000-08:00

Nanamakee Expeditions open the door to some of the Northwest’s most spectacular natural beauty. Lasting friendships, adventures, and a stronger connection to God await you. All trips are led by trained and experienced leaders. While tripping experience isn’t necessary, participants must be in good physical condition and prepared for some strenuous activity.

CLICK ON THE SCHEDULE FOR A CLOSER LOOK AT PRICES AND DATES!

NORTH CASCADES BACKPACKING, June 20-July 5 (Grades 6-9)
Quick friendships form as you leave civilization behind and enter God’s country. Put your camping skills to the test as you hike to and camp at an alpine lake

ROCK CLIMBING EXPEDITION, July 12-16 (Grades 6-9)
Reach new heights in this adrenaline pumping adventure. Start off on our rock wall and learn basic climbing techniques with our knowledgeable staff. Next, move onto real rock with the help of expert guides. Wrap up the trip with a day hike up a local peak.

GEOCACHING, July 12-16 (Grades 9-12)
Spend the week on a high tech treasure hunt. We’ll use GPS units to join in the fun of this new outdoor adventure.

NORTH CASCADES HIKE AND RIVER RAFT, July 22-30 (Grades 9-12)
Come join us for a spectacular backpacking adventure in the North Cascades. We’ll see unforgettable sights, wildlife, and great views of mountain valleys. You’ll spend one day rafting the Skagit River. Participants should be in good physical condition and able to travel 6-9 miles a day carrying a 35-40 lb pack.

KAYAK PUGET SOUND, August 2-10 (Grades 9-12)
Paddle the stunning south Puget Sound in kayaks. Follow the tides through the sound while learning basic camping and water skills. Intermediate swimming ability is required for all water trips (swim 100 yards, tread water for one minute).

EXTREME ADVENTURE, August 2-10 (Grades 6-9)
Heart pounding adventures await you as you rock climb, challenge yourself on our vertical playpen, and new high ropes course. Leave camp for a night of camping and rafting to finish the trip.

SAN JUAN BIKE, August 13-21 (Grades 9-12)
Explore the hidden beauty of the San Juan Islands. Ride through seaside towns and historic fishing villages as you discover the magic of these islands from the seat of a bicycle. We’ll ferry between islands to find beautiful sites seldom seen from speeding cars. This is a beginning-to-intermediate level ride with plenty of time to explore.

MAD LAKE HORSE SADDLE PACK TRIP, August 13-21 (Grades 9-12)
Starting out with a day of trail riding at camp, then we’re off to the high mountain meadows for four days on horseback. Ride 8-12 miles a day, stopping to swim and relax while enjoying the scenery. Our host is Icicle Outfitters with great food, gentle horses, beautiful lakes, and flower-filled meadows.

HIGH SCHOOL HORSE CAMP, July 6-10 (Grades 9-12)
2 or more years experience (intermediate horse skills)
Horse camp doesn’t end at 9th grade anymore. Come back to Hamilton to this unique experience of community, friendship and horses. Spend the majority of your day riding and learning advanced horse care. At night we’ll have our own camper led campfire under the stars at spirit wood.

Camp Gallagher 2010

2007-11-05T11:34:00.000-08:00

GALLAGHER (Grades 9-12)

If you think you are too old for camp you have never been to Gallagher. Located on the shores of the beautiful South Puget Sound the Gallagher experience is designed specifically for people in high school. This includes choosing many of the activities throughout the day and making decisions about wake up, bed, and meal times as a community. The small size of the camp helps to create a strong community wherein new friendships are made, existing relationships become stronger and everyone can share in a unique experience of faith, teamwork and support. So come join us this summer – the sunset must be seen to be believed!

BEYOND GALLAGHER ('10 high school graduates)

Make your transition beyond high school at Gallagher this summer. Take time to relax, reflect, build community, and explore your faith as you begin your path into adulthood.

ALL-GIRLS

Feel free to be yourself 100% of the time. Coed camp is a whole lot of fun, however the all-girls session takes it to a whole new dimension.

Overnight at Don Bosco 2010

2007-11-05T11:30:00.000-08:00

At Camp Don Bosco, campers will make new friends, grow closer to God, gain self esteem, and most of all, have FUN! The natural setting of Don Bosco includes hiking trails, playing fields, swimming pool, archery range, craft shop, outdoor chapel, challenge course, and more! If this is your first or fifth time at camp, our highly trained staff will help you feel right at home.

CLICK ON THE SCHEDULE BELOW FOR A CLOSER LOOK AT DATES AND PRICES!

Campler (Grades 3-7)
Experience all the traditional camp activities such as archery, swimming, challenge course and horses in this five day “Camp Sampler.” This is a great way for campers to try a little bit of everything camp has to offer.

Splash (Grades 3-7)
Don Bosco’s traditional camping experience. Campers who choose “Splash” can look forward to days full of fun: exploring the woods, hiking new trails, swimming, meeting new friends, archery, sleeping under a shelter put up by the group on an overnight, cooking out, singing around the campfire, growing in faith and much more!

Outdoor Living Skills (Grades 3-7)
Spend a few hours each day increasing your outdoor skills and gaining a new appreciation for God’s creation. Learn the art of making a perfect campfire, build a shelter, learn how to tie knots, and prepare food over the campfire!
This program prepares participants for Tatonka, CYO’s outdoor program at Camp Hamilton.

Trail Scouts (Grades 3-7)
Saddle up! This program is devoted to safe and responsible methods of riding and caring for horses. Spend two hours a day learning the basics of horse instruction: mounting and dismounting, walking, trotting, riding in the arena and on the trails. With our excellent staff to camper ratio, TrailScouts is perfect for beginning or intermediate riders.
Boots with a ¾ - inch heel and smooth sole required.

Focus on Crafts (Grades 5-7)
Can’t get enough crafts? Spend two hours a day at the craft shop working on specialty craft projects. Spend the rest of the day enjoying traditional camp activities.

Culinary Camp (Grades 5-7)
You will get hands on experience learning kitchen safety, creating and cooking healthy meals, and making your own recipe book to take home! Be sure to sign up early for this one!

Mini-Camp (Grades 1-2)
All the fun in half the time! This is a great introduction to traditional resident camping. You’ll spend time with your cabin making friends, exploring the trails, swimming, roasting marshmallows, and lots more!

Volleyball (Grades 5-8)
Passing, setting and spiking are just a few of the skills you will practice and improve at volleyball camp. You'll spend half of your day at a local school gymnasium in Carnation scrimmaging and working on your skills, then enjoy the rest of your day at camp participating in all the traditional camp activities.

Camp Hamilton 2010

2007-11-05T11:06:00.000-08:00

Your journey is full of excitement at rustic Camp Hamilton. 570 acres of forests, an 80 acre lake, and countless scenic vistas help you grow closer to God. Swimming and boating on the lake, archery, hiking, climbing the wall, and experiencing our new high ropes courses, are just some of the adventures you and your cabin mates help choose. At night sing around the campfire, sleep under the stars or go on a night hike. You’ll have a week full of fun at Adventure Camp or one of Hamilton’s specialty camps.

CLICK THE SCHEDULE BELOW FOR A CLOSER LOOK AT DATES AND RATES!

Adventure Camp (Grades 5-9)
Adventure awaits you with an exciting twist on traditional camp activities. Gain a new appreciation of God’s creation through nature activities, camping skills and exploring camp.

Mountain Biking (Grades 6-9)
Get ready for an exciting session rushing down trails and roads on a mountain bike. Learn the basics of safe riding while enjoying some great trails. Experienced counselors challenge campers to reach individual and group goals. Campers are divided into riding groups based on skill level. Campers must bring a bike and helmet to camp.

Guitar Skills (Grades 6-9)
Have you ever wanted to play those camp songs you know and love? Bring your acoustic guitar to camp and a portion of the day will be spent learning to play the guitar or take your current skill to a new level. Campers must bring a guitar.

Photography (Grades 6-9)
Learn about light, composition, shutter speed, framing, and all the elements that go into taking great pictures. What better way to capture the beauty of nature? Campers must bring a digital camera.

Horse Camp (Grades 6-9)
Want a true horse country experience? Spend the week living in covered wagons and eating breakfast or lunch in a country-style shelter. Whether you’re brand new or an experienced rider, you’ll love Hamilton’s unique horse programs. Play games, ride obstacle courses, explore the trails on horseback, and learn the basics of horse care. Campers are assigned riding groups by skill level. Boots with ¾-inch heel and smooth sole are required for horse programs.

Appaloosa 0-2 years experience
Spend 1½ to 2 hours per day learning the basics including walking and trotting.

Wrangler 2 or more years experience (intermediate horse skills)
Improve your balance at a trot and lope, and learn responsible and safe trail riding. Spend 2 to 3 hours per day riding, caring for, and learning about horses.

Tatonka (Grades 6-9)
Strengthen your camping skills, cook over an open fire, hike to the top of Mt. Stohr, learn about nature and each other away from main camp on a four day expedition you won’t forget.

Tatonka 1
This legendary original trip is open to those with or without outdoor experience.

Tatonka 2
If you’ve been to Tatanka and are ready for a more challenging expedition Tatanka 2 will test your outdoor living skills.

Tatanka Survival Skills
The ten essentials are just the beginning... Learn advanced wilderness survival skills
then put them to the test in this safe and challenging week.

Day Camp 2010

2007-11-05T11:02:00.000-08:00

Running Monday through Friday at Camp Don Bosco, day camp will offer all of the traditional

CYO activities with a new theme each week. It is open for campers going into grades 1-8, with smaller groups divided by age. It is the perfect opportunity to experience camp for the very first time or in an entirely new way! Transportation and scholarships are available.

CLICK ON THE SCHEDULE FOR A CLOSER LOOK AT PRICES AND DATES!

Sights and Local Delights (gr 1-8): Enjoy the best activities Camp Don Bosco and the surrounding area has to offer! Take a swim in the pool, hike in the woods, work on a craft project and make new friends. You will also have the opportunity to explore area sights such as Snoqualmie Falls, Remlinger Farms and explore the Snoqualmie Valley Trail.

Let’s Get Crafty! (gr 1-8): Spend two hours a day in our craft shop creating your own masterpiece! This is your chance to be as creative as you want. We will paint, draw, mold, tye-dye, make candles and much much more!

Horsin’ Around (gr 1-8): Become a cowboy or cowgirl this week! We will spend time down at the corral with our highly trained staff, learning about horses, sharpening our skills and even going on a trail ride. Take a trip back to the Wild West with an authentic cowboy cookout over the campfire.

Let’s Make Some Music (gr 1-8): By making our own instruments, learning about music and having numerous jam sessions, you will find your own unique sound. Whether you decide to make a music video, choreograph a new dance or just learn a new song, the possibilities are endless! We will even pay a visit to Experience Music Project in Seattle to discover the secrets of some of the greatest musicians.

Gamesapalooza (gr 1-8): A week full of games and activities that focus on having fun, developing sportsmanship, and learning to be a team player. You’ll enjoy new games ranging from tag to Ultimate Frisbee.

Photo Camp (gr 1-8): Learn about the art of digital photography! Light, composition and subject matter are just some of the skills you will learn this week! What a great way to capture the beauty of God’s creation!

Wildlife Wonder (gr 1-8): What is your favorite animal? This might be the week to decide! We will meet several different types of animals during our visit to the Woodland Park Zoo, where we will stay the night and have a pizza party. Also become an expert animal tracker as we discover the wildlife that lives all around us.

All the Camp’s a Stage (gr 1-8): This is your chance to shine! Get in touch with your artistic side this week, perhaps by working on some new acting skills, painting a mural or even sculpting a masterpiece. We will even get a special visit from the Seattle Children’s Theater, who will give us the inside scoop on becoming a star.

Outdoor Adventure (gr 1-8): End the summer by enjoying every second of sunshine. We will go hiking, swimming, canoeing, and exploring everything we can in a week! This is the perfect opportunity to brush up on your outdoor skills, as you learn how to make a fire, build a fort and identify the local plants.

High Adventure (gr 1-8): Are you ready for high and low adventures? This week we will take full advantage of Camp Hamilton’s new high challenge course and their climbing wall! We’ll also go hiking, swimming, and canoeing! We’ll round out our week with an overnight at camp!

Rates, Discounts, and Financial Aid

2007-11-05T10:38:00.000-08:00

Three Tiered Pricing Structure
CYO’s goal has always been to provide an unparalleled experience and one where money is never a reason that a child cannot attend camp. Our pricing structure allows us to continue to provide this type of experience to as many people as possible while giving families the chance to support CYO Summer Camp at a level at which they are comfortable. Please take a moment to review the options below and decide which one is right for you. This program is voluntary, confidential, and will not in any way affect your child’s experience at camp.

Tier One: This is our traditional subsidized camp fee. This fee does not reflect the actual cost operating a CYO Summer Camp.

Tier Two: This is a slightly higher, partially subsidized fee. This is for families
who can afford to pay a little more, but cannot afford the actual cost of CYO Summer Camp.

Tier Three: This is our highest fee and more accurately reflects the actual cost of operating a CYO Summer Camp including staffing, maintenance, and program supply costs.

Financial Aid
CYO is committed to making it possible for every young person to attend camp. To support that commitment CYO has established a Campership Fund to offer aid to families who could not otherwise afford to send a child to camp. All families are encouraged to apply if help is needed. Varying amounts of aid are offered depending on need. The maximum scholarship available is $300 per camper with the remaining balance being the responsibility of the family. If requesting financial aid, be sure to complete that section on the registration form. A $50 non-refundable deposit is required.

Multi-Child Families
Applies to siblings or children who share a common guardian. This offer does not apply to families receiving financial aid from CYO.

1st child: Full price
2nd child: 5% off
3rd child: 10% off
4th child: 20% off
5th child: 40% off
6th child: 80% off

Multi-Session Discount
Applies to campers who attend more than one session. This offer does not apply to families receiving financial aid from CYO.

1st session: Full price
2nd session: 15% off

Summer Camp Information 2010

2007-11-05T10:04:00.000-08:00

At CYO summer camp each day becomes an adventure and each adventure is part of a larger journey. From young child to young adult, CYO has had a lasting impact on the personal, social and spiritual growth of thousands of people for over fifty years. Join us for the journey this summer!

“The best thing CYO does is to allow kids to simply enjoy life without all the outside problems society brings to the world. CYO gives children the opportunity to explore their faith, make new friends, and to find and strengthen their own individual gifts in a nurturing and safe environment.”

“When she got off the bus, she burst into tears because it was over. She said she had 'been herself' at camp and 'everyone loved me.' It just doesn't get much better than that.”

“I think spirituality is a vital part of the CYO camp experience, so I was glad that my daughter mentioned talks with counselors, Mass, and prayer time as things she enjoyed while at camp!!”

“Our son has always had a very strong understanding of his faith and spirituality, but it was good for him to find a place where it was acceptable to share his faith. Gallagher is a place where 'it's cool to believe in God.'”

The American Camp Association (ACA) has more than 300 standards by which they measure camp excellence. CYO camps consistently pass onsite accreditation visits by the ACA and we meet or exceed standards in all areas: health and safety, program quality, transportation, food service, site management and qualifications of staff.

Click on the links below for more information about our camps

Day Camp at Don Bosco (entering grades 1-8)

Overnight Camp at Don Bosco (entering grades 1-8)

Camp Hamilton (entering grades 5-9)

Nanamakee Expeditions (entering grades 6-12)

Camp Gallagher (entering grades 9-12+)

Camp Registration

2007-11-05T09:54:00.000-08:00

Summer 2010

Registration for Summer Camp 2010 will begin at the beginning of January. Check out the dates for 2010 and the new programs on the Camp Information tab and keep checking back here for the most up-to-date information regarding the opening day of registration.

Rates, Discounts and Financial Aid

Registration Form coming soon!

Environmental Education

2007-10-09T18:04:00.000-07:00

Now hiring Teacher/Naturalists for E.E. camp

Overview
The Catholic Youth Organization provides a residential outdoor environmental education experience for elementary students through the use of hands-on, exploratory, investigative, and interdisciplinary teaching methods at Camp Hamilton, a 570 acre site in Monroe, WA.

Program Goals
Explore and learn about their relationship with the natural environment.

Increase their understanding of ecological concepts.
Gain a deeper sense of community with, and responsibility for, the earth and its inhabitants.
Participate in cooperative group living, problem-solving, and decision-making tasks while respecting the diversity each group brings.
Experience and develop personal and spiritual growth.
Share the wonders of, and celebrate God’s creation.

Academic Focus
Students spend a large portion of time each day in Exploration Groups out in the field studying the ecology of the natural communities at camp. An investigative approach to learning is used to teach the interconnectedness of people and the natural world. The curriculum is consistent with the Framework for Environmental Education Guidelines produced by the Washington State Office for Environmental Education.

Each field study is organized by a community: Forest, Wetland, Wildlife, and Human

Forest Community
During the Forest Community field study, students get to explore the incredible diversity of the Pacific Northwest forest ecosystem. Through active exploration and hiking, group discussions and challenges, games and reflection, students will gain a deeper understanding of how plants, animals, and humans interconnect in this community. Students will develop an awareness of the patterns and designs, structures and functions as well as the beauty inherent in a forest community. They will gain knowledge about life cycles and interrelationships and forest conservation strategies.

Wetlands Community
The Wetlands Community field study allows students the opportunity to perform a pond study using observation skills and scientific equipment. Students will learn that wetlands play an important role in the every day lives of humans, wildlife, and plants. Group discussion and reflection will give students the opportunity to learn the value and function of a wetland. They will have the ability to describe and define a wetland community and identify common plants associated with wetland areas.

Wildlife Community
The Wildlife Community field study cover the topics of adaptation, habitat, and limiting factors. Students will learn that in order to survive, all animals need a habitat that consists of the same basic components. They will have the opportunity to explore a variety of animal signs at Camp Hamilton which can be used as an indicator of population and environmental quality. Students will learn hands-on the adaptations which allow animals to fill a particular niche or survive in a particular habitat.

Human Community
During the Human Community study, students participate in non-competitive initiative activities that focus on communication, cohesion, diversity, and personal and environmental awareness. Initiatives encourage the students to see themselves as capable individuals. Students will learn the value of treating others with respect and dignity, utilize and appreciate rules for group behavior, the benefits of teamwork, and accept personal responsibility for maintaining and conserving the group living environment.

Life at Camp
In addition to the academic focus of the Environmental Education program, while at camp students live in an environment that promotes a sense of self-worth and confidence, as well as respect for the rights and needs of others. We schedule schools from different backgrounds together and facilitate positive interactions, generating awareness of commonalities between diverse groups of people while appreciating differences. Students leave Camp Hamilton with a heightened awareness of how their choices impact others.

Spirituality
The Catholic Youth Organization’s Environmental Education program teaches students that the Earth is a gift from God, and as stewards of this gift, we must work to protect and preserve it. While at camp, students will experience faith community building through prayer and reflection. Faith-based values are incorporated into all facets of our program. We seek to celebrate the wonders of God’s creation as a faith community.

Contact:

Sarah Humlie
Director of Environmental Education
710 Ninth Ave.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-382-4562
sarah.humlie@seattlearch.org

Calendar

2007-04-03T10:06:00.000-07:00