a summer day camp program for children dealing with cancer

2010 Programs & Dates

Children’s Island

Developing friends and memories for a lifetime

The island is located about a mile outside the entrance to Marblehead Harbor.

Each day at 8:00 am and again at 8:45 am the Hannah Glover departs with children and counselors from the State Street Public Landing in downtown Marblehead for the 25-acre YMCA Island day camp. At 4:00 pm and 5:00 pm the Hannah Glover returns filled with tired — but happy — campers.

The Island and its facilities are well maintained to provide a safe, enjoyable experience in a rustic outdoor setting. Included are fields (for volleyball, softball, lacrosse, soccer and archery), beaches, a fleet of watercraft, including sailboats and kayaks, a 30′ × 75′ salt-water swimming pool, nature habitats, areas for environmental studies, and more. Facilities include an Arts and Crafts Building, Main Lodge, Sailors Lodge and the Director’s cabin and First Aid Station. Each session includes an overnight stay, a family night, and an exciting “theme day.” All equipment necessary for a quality experience is provided.

Safety is a top priority on Children’s Island. Certified life guards are on duty at all times the pool is open or the beach is being used. All staff members and counselors are CPR certified and first aid trained, and a local physician is on call.

The carefully selected Island staff is made up of program directors and counselors with excellent experience in the field as well as certified waterfront personnel. All participate in extensive pre-camp and ongoing staff training programs.

Nancamp offers three programs centered at the Island during June, July and August: the Children’s Island Program for 2nd through 6th graders, the Seafarers Program for 7th and 8th graders, the Islanders Camp for 9th and 10th graders, the Counselor-in-Training Program for 10th graders, and Sailing Camp for campers entering grade 5 and up.

The Children’s Island Day Camp Program

For campers entering grades 2–6

The Children’s Island Day Camp Program offers two-week sessions. Activities include sailing, rowing and kayaking, swimming in the Island pool or one of the beautiful beaches, snorkeling, lobstering, Rangers (Native American lore, etc.), archery, rock climbing, arts and crafts, environmental exploration, games, individual and team sports, cookouts, overnights and special theme days. A Family Night is held during each session.

Seafarers Program

Open to teens entering grades 7 and 8

This teen program is designed for the older campers who want more time to experience the Island adventurers. Campers will be able to kayak around the Island, row to the islands, swim and dive in the open waters, fish off the rocks as well as maintain the lobster traps. Activity choices and time for socialization are two key components of this camp. Special teen overnight supervised and guided by teen specialists complete this teen adventure.

Islanders Program

Open to teens entering grades 9 and 10

This camp continues the teen experience to the next level by developing independence and self-esteem skills. Teens will face challenges to be solved by group activities and projects, develop skills with extended time on the water rowing, sailing or kayaking, continue to build their aquatics abilities exploring strokes, snorkeling and diving, learn to cook and survive in the Island setting and experience new challenges through group adventures. Teen overnight and free time to socialize complete this older teen camp.

Counselors-in-Training Program

Open to teens entering grade 10

The CIT program is for those teens that want to develop leadership skills and learn how to effectively work with campers to prepare teens for future employment as counselors. CITs will train and work with groups on conflict resolution program planning as well as having time to enjoy the Island and its offerings of activities. CITs are included in the staff overnights. Teens entering the tenth grade who wish to participate in the CIT program must apply for a limited number of positions. Applications are available at the YMCA or online.

Small Fry Camp

For campers grades K to 1

Small Fry Camp, based at the Marblehead/Swampscott YMCA at Leggs Hill Road, is designed to provide a fun and rewarding camp experience for the first-time camper. Campers will enjoy swimming in the new outdoor pool and gym games on the outdoor field. Campers will travel to local beaches, museums, and more. Afternoons will include free swim, sports, art, cooking and rock wall.

Explorers Camp

For campers entering grades 2 and up

Explorers is designed for the camper who wants to continue with a field-trip-based camp or a half-day camp. Campers participate in swimming, more advanced athletic activities and art projects. Campers will have special full-day trips to places such as Canobie Lake Park, Water Country, and the Boston Harbor Islands. Campers will work to develop skills incorporating the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Simchah on the Hill

For children in grades 1 through 7

Situated on the Jewish Community Center’s 11-acre seaside campus in Marblehead, Simchah on the Hill is a Jewish day camp for children entering grades 1–7. It is a collaboration between the Jewish Community Center of the North Shore and Cohen Hillel Academy. Simchah on the Hill provides campers with a variety of activities designed to exercise their minds and bodies, engage their creativity and develop new skills, all under the supervision of dedicated and experienced camp counselors and specialists.

There is something for everyone at Simchah on the Hill. Campers participate in activities that include flagpole, singing, swim lessons, Chugim, weekly Shabbat celebrations, special performers, overnights, family nights, outdoor adventure, Israeli culture and much more.

Experienced adult directors, coaches and certified teachers supervise each camp program. More information can be obtained at www.jccns.org

Sailboats