Winter 2024
The pond is fully frozen, though not quite safe yet for a walk or skate. Snow comes and goes, briefly covering camp in a pristine white blanket before melting a few days later. Every day brings a new kind of beauty here. We’re treated to sightings of porcupines, bald eagles, deer, and wild turkeys on a regular basis. I hope you’ve been able to spend some time outdoors enjoying nature, even in the cold.
Out at camp, we’re hard at work every day, making progress on the new boardwalk, tackling our list of building improvements and preparing for several exciting projects. One major initiative is the expansion of the Utes cabins, which has been approved by the town and is set to begin soon. Each of the five cabins will be extended by 10 feet and will feature covered front porches. These will be the first cabins with interior and ceiling siding, and we’ll be testing spray insulation to help keep them cooler during summer heat waves. These updates will make a significant difference, providing campers more space and giving counselors their own private living quarters instead of shared ones. It’s a game-changer for both campers and staff, much like the improvements made to the Mohican and Oscadee cabins.
Another big project is replacing the Waterfront shed, which has been in need of major repairs for years. The new shed will be larger, with a deck and front steps, making it easier for campers to access their life jackets directly. We’ve also managed to save the panels from the current shed to repurpose in future projects.
Enrollment for next summer is already ahead of last year’s numbers, which is fantastic news. Session 3 is waitlisted, and Session 2 is nearly full. It’s a great indicator of the camp’s enduring appeal and the experiences we provide.
Looking ahead, we’re continuing to follow our Master Site Plan. The next big step will be launching a Capital Campaign to fund a future dining hall—a significant undertaking that we’re preparing for by finalizing our choice of a consultant to guide us through the process.
On the fundraising front, this year has been wonderfully successful. We’re on track to meet our $170,000 goal for the Journey Forward campaign, thanks to the generosity of so many supporters. We’re hoping for a few more contributions to push us over the top by year’s end.
As the holidays approach, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the spirit of Camp Mohawk. Please remember to light a candle on New Year’s Eve and carry that spirit with you into the year ahead.
May the spirit last a lifetime,
Patrick Marchand, CEO
YMCA Camp Mohawk
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