YMCA Camp Pine Crest - YMCA of Greater Toronto

YMCA Camp Pine CrestFamily Information GuideSummer 2010

Campers! Welcome to YMCA Camp Pine Crest!This book is for you and your parents to help prepare for camp this summer.Whether it is your very first time away at camp or you are a returning camper, Weare sure this package will answer your questions.A camp is very different than being at home. We sleep in cabins of 8-10 people, weeat in a large dining hall with close to 250 people and we are outside most of eachday and there are bugs! This type of lifestyle means that we work together to ensurethat everyone’s experience is positive while at camp. We expect that all campersand staff treat each other with respect and help others to enjoy their time awayfrom home.We hope that you return to your parents with greater confidence, excitement andfriendships that will keep you wanting to return to camp year after year.If you are feeling nervous about going away for the first time, please visit us at ourFamily Information nights throughout Toronto or our Open House Days at Campin June and August. You can also see pictures of camp on our websitewww.camppinecrest.ca or just give us a call!Take care and we can’t wait to see you!Andrea Balmer Alexander McIntosh Coel BalmerCamp Director Summer Programs Coordinator Facility Manager(705) 762-3377camp.pinecrest@ymcagta.orgTable of ContentsInformation Sessions page 1YMCA Camp Pine Crest Principles page 2-3Expectations page 3-4Packing and Preparations page 4, 5, 6, 7Transportation Details page 8Health and Safety at Camp page 9, 10Program Options page 11, 12Typical Day page 13Orientation Day Activities page 13, 14Leadership and Adventure Leadership Programs page 15Contact with Camp page 16, 17Directions to YMCA Camp Pine Crest page 18Mapback cover

Parents: Family Information NightsWe find that even after reading all the information the camp provides, children oftenhave very specific questions that can be answered during our Family InformationNights. For just over an hour, come out and see a slide show of camp, meet some ofthe staff and have your questions answered. Leadership and Adventure LeadershipInformation Nights provide specific program and travel information in detail by thetrainers that will be working with your child.General CampInformation NightsTuesday May 117:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.Metro-Central YMCA20 Grosvenor Street(off Yonge, south of Wellesley St)Toronto, OntarioM4Y 2V5(416) 975-9622.Tuesday May 257:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.North York YMCA567 Sheppard Avenue East(at Bayview)North York, OntarioM2K 1B2(416) 225-9622Wednesday June 27:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.Metro-Central YMCA20 Grosvenor Street(off Yonge, south of Wellesley St)Toronto, OntarioM4Y 2V5(416) 975-9622.YMCA Camp Pine CrestOpen House DaySaturday June 19, 201011:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.YMCA Camp Pine CrestAnnual Strong Kids Triathlonand Open HouseSaturday August 7, 20109:00 am race startEnjoy all camp activities, meet the staff,tour camp and enjoy a buffet lunch!Leadership Information NightFor all participants in the LeadershipExchange, JLIT, L.I.T., C.I.T. programsTuesday June 15, 20107:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.Metro-Central YMCA20 Grosvenor Street(off Yonge, south of Wellesley St)Toronto, Ontario M4Y 2V5(416) 975 9622Adventure LeadershipInformation NightFor all participants in the Junior-SeniorAdventure Leadership ProgramsTuesday June 8, 20107:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.Metro-Central YMCA20 Grosvenor Street(off Younge, south of Wellesly St)Toronto, Ontario M4Y 2V5(416) 975-96222

YMCA of Greater TorontoMission StatementThe YMCA is a charity offering opportunities for personal growth throughparticipation and service to the community.Guiding Principles of YMCA Camp Pine CrestOur success is built on our commitment to the mission of the YMCA. In pursuit ofthis and to distinguish our experiences from other experiences offered by ourYMCA and the community, our camping and outdoor education centre services arebased on the following guiding principles.Small-Group Experience• YMCA Camp Pine Crest focuses on each individual camper’s developmentprocess.• Most of the camper’s time occurs in a group size of approximately 8-10.• We provide opportunities for social development, group interdependence,interpersonal problem solving, and leadership development.Natural Focus• The camp program primarily features activities specific to our semi-wildernesssetting and are not as readily available to children in their home or schoolenvironment.• We take a holistic approach to environmental education and environmentalstewardship creating exciting experiences in the outdoors.Democratic Living• While living in a group in a small cabin or on a canoe trip, campers learn tomake decisions that serve both the individual and the cabin group.• The cabin groups work together to determine the cabin program activitiesthat they choose at the beginning of each session.Enjoyable Programs• We want to make sure that every child has fun at camp.• We want to encourage a sense of camp spirit, positive attitudes, andcamaraderie.• We strive to ensure that our programs add to the campers’ overalldevelopment by providing situations in which positive attitudes and funapproaches to problems lead to success.Inclusive Community• Our camp brings campers and staff of various abilities and cultural, ethnic,and socio-economic backgrounds together in one community.• Staff are trained on issues of bullying and inclusion to help prevent situationsthat would make campers feel isolated during their time at camp.• We offer financial assistance through a variety of channels in order to assureequal access to our programs at Pine Crest.• We have a strong partnership with Reach for the Rainbow, an organizationthat helps find camps that provide support for children with high needs2

Healthy Lifestyle• Each day our groups are outside, rain or shine enjoying as much of camp asthey can• Our programs focus on activities that foster a sense of nature appreciationand love for the outdoors.• Our 650 acre property is made up of mostly rock and surrounded by lakes• Our kitchen staff do their best to provide tasty and nutricious meals that willprovide children with the necessary calories to support their active lifestyle atcamp• Our staff encourage children to get enough rest, drink lots of water and applysunscreen regularly to stay healthy.• Our wellness centre staff check in with campers numerous times during theirsession to ensure they are healthy and feel comfortable.Expectations at CampRespect for YourselfAt YMCA Camp Pine Crest, we live by basic principles of respect. Every person atcamp has the responsibility to know their own limits and take care of themselves byeating enough, drinking enough water and putting on sunscreen. Counsellors make surethat all campers are taking time for personal hygiene and are given the opportunity forquiet time in our busy environment.Respect for OthersWe also expect that each person at camp has respect for all others living at camp. OurYMCA supports and strives to adhere to the belief that every participant has the rightto a safe environment and equal treatment by all without discrimination. A campexperience is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the incredible things a group canaccomplish together while welcoming the differences in individuals. Living at camp cansometimes be a stressful situation for some campers and we ask that everyone respectsthe physical and emotional boundaries of others while living together.Respect for the EnvironmentLiving in Muskoka and taking part in canoe and hiking trips in northern Ontario aregreat ways to introduce campers to the concept of respect for our environment. Forexample: at camp we are careful that excess garbage is not left around for those crittersthat also live on Clear Lake. Respect for the camp environment also includes keeping allof our buildings, trails and equipment in good repair.On canoe trips we are guests in the environment and live by a philosophy that we leaveeach place better than when we arrived. This includes taking only pictures, no-tracecamping and being proactive about our impact on the earth.Campers and staff are expected to take initiative in sustaining the beauty of our campenvironment for future guests to our site and to provide a safe and healthy environmentfor everyone.3

Code of ConductAt YMCA Camp Pine Crest our staff are trained and experienced in providing highquality care for our campers ensuring the needs of each individual are met. If a situationarises where a camper threatens the safety or security of another camper, or themselves,we will make every appropriate effort to inform the parents involved, correct thebehaviour and provide a positive camp experience for everyone.However, should disruptive behaviour continue, the child may be dismissed from campat the discretion of the Camp Director or her designate. The camp will not be heldresponsible for any costs or provide a refund, associated with a camper’s dismissal onthe grounds of disruptive behaviour.NOTE: In extreme circumstances, a camper may be removed from the campenvironment without warning if their behaviour jeopardizes the safety of campers orstaff, or where the camper is engaged in illegal activities (including possession of nonprescriptiondrugs, alcohol and /or tobacco products).Preparing for CampGoing Away for the First TimeComing to YMCA Camp Pine Crest is very exciting for both campers and parents! It’svery natural, however, for both to feel a bit anxious about leaving the comforts ofhome, adopting new routines and meeting new friends. We want to minimize ‘first dayanxiety’ so that your child can feel at home at camp. Our staff are well prepared foryour child’s arrival and understand how to help him/her feel comfortable. There are anumber of things that you can do ahead of time to prepare for the transition, tominimize anxiety and to help your child feel in control over his/her own experience.• Plan the camper’s journey together as a family. Reviewing this booklet and all othercamp information together will provide the opportunity to discuss the campexperience ahead.• Come to one of our Family Information Nights to see pictures of camp.• Talk about the types of things that will happen each day at camp as well as theoverall picture. Make sure they know, for example, that they will be going on acanoe trip, that they can swim daily, and that they can choose activities with theirgroup.• Make sure your child has a hand in packing for camp. Make sure you send old,recognizable clothes. This will go a long way to make your child feel more athome. (Also, new clothes are not as familiar or as easy to identify).• When discussing camp with your child, we recommend that you openly talk aboutthe possibility of them feeling uneasy in the new environment. It is quite natural tofeel strange in a new place without their family, but that they can look forward tosharing stories about the wonderful time they had at camp.• Write a letter to your child before they leave so that they receive it close to the firstday of camp. This often is the most reassuring message that they are not missinganything at home and can be free to enjoy themselves in their new adventure.4

Coping with HomesicknessAll YMCA Camp Pine Crest staff make a special effort to help campers overcomehomesickness by helping them learn to accept the natural feelings of missing family orfriends. Our counsellors help campers talk about their feelings while assuring them thathomesickness is a normal part of being in a new place. We keep our campers busy andtry to interest them in new and exciting activities.We hesitate to recommend removing a camper from camp due to homesickness.Taking him or her away too soon may make it difficult for your child to overcomehomesickness in the future. In the cases of persistent homesickness we will contact thehome to provide an update and work on a plan that best suites the needs of the camper,family and the camp.Campers are not typically permitted to call home as we have found that this usuallyescalates the feelings of homesickness.Please do not tell your child that they can call home if they feel homesick whileat camp.Parents: It is completely normal for you to be nervous and miss your child as well.Please do not hesitate to call camp during your child’s session to receive an update onhow they are doing and speak to one of our senior team or their counselor to put yourmind at ease.Special Needs and Reach for the RainbowAt the YMCA, we believe that the camp experience can benefit all children. That is whywe work to assist families in integrating children with special needs into our campprograms.Additional staff support is given tocamper groups, along with one-on-onestaff support to individuals with specialneeds.Campers with special needs areintegrated into the cabin group entirelyand will attend all programs with theircabin group. We are proud to work withReach for the Rainbow, a partneragency, in providing the opportunity forall campers to experience the pleasuresand friendships of integratedprogramming.Please contact Reach for the Rainbow toobtain information about registeringyour child in camp through theirprogram at www.reach.on.ca5

What to bring to camp…Packing for camp is almost as much fun as going to YMCA Camp Pine Crest! Sinceyour child will be away for at least one or two weeks, it is very important that he or shecomes equipped with all the items that will be needed at camp. Below you will find asuggested list of what to bring to assist you with your packing. Your child’s outtripneeds are taken into consideration in the design of this list.BeddingCampers bring their own sleeping bags and pillows. If bedwetting is a concern, pleasenote that our staff are trained to deal with this discreetly, working with children one-onone.Campers are encouraged to ask their counsellors for help, day or night, and every effortis made to prevent acccidents. Campers who may bedwet are asked to bring extrabedding or sleeping bag liners to camp. The camp laundry service is available to quicklylaunder any bedding. Please make sure this has been noted on the Personal InformationSection of the registration form.Eyeglasses/ContactsFor children who require eyeglasses or contacts, we recommend that parents considersending along an extra pair to be kept in the Wellness Centre in case they are needed.Shoes, Sandals and Flip-flopsBecause of our natural rocky setting, we encourage campers to bring suitable footwear.We consider flip-flops to be a safety risk and do not allow campers to wear them forany reason. In addition, only closed-toed shoes can be worn on outtrips. Open toesshoes are not protective enough to the feet on camping trips for wilderness travel. Wedo not allow sport sandals and “Tevas” to be worn on outtrips.MedicationsAll medications are to be sent to camp in their original packages, clearly labelled withthe person’s full name and date of birth. All staff and camper medications are locked ina secure space within the Wellness Centre. We ask that you give the medications to theBus Monitor if traveling by bus and that you give them directly to the WellnessCoordinator on the first day if you are dropping off your child. We also stronglyencourage that if your child wears a medic alert bracelet, that he/she wears this braceletwhile at camp, and that this information is clearly noted on the Health Form.6

Transportation to and from YMCA Camp Pine CrestTransportationThe YMCA is committed to assisting each family with making the best travel plans. Iftravel plans change for any reason, please inform our camp office immediately.Travelling by CarArrival day for all sessions is Sunday. Camp will be open between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00p.m. on the first day of the session. Parents and families are invited to our ‘Family Day’where they can meet the counsellors, tour the camp and settle their children into theirnew homes.The waterfront will be open for canoeing and swimming, and a buffet lunch will beavailable starting at 11:30 a.m. The camp will not open its doors until 11:00 a.m. We askthat you respect this time as we are preparing for your arrival until then.Last day departure time on Friday is between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.We encourage families to get an update from the counsellors and have their childshow them what they have accomplished while at camp. You will be provided witha package about the session on your way out as well.Travelling by camp busIn the event that bus registration is low, a 15 passenger camp van driven by a properlylicensed driver will be substituted for the regular hired bus. For campers returninghome from camp on the bus, a bag dinner will be provided. A camp staff, which acts asa bus monitor, supervises all transportation.We ask that you arrive to the departure location at least 30 minutes prior to thedeparture time listed below. If the buses are running behind schedule upon return, wewill leave a message with the front desk of the local YMCA.Bus StopScarborough YMCA230 Town Centre CourtMetro-Central YMCA20 Grosvenor StreetNorth York-Hollywood Public School360 Hollywood Ave.(off of Bayview)Mississauga YMCA325 Burhamthorpe Road WestBus Departure Time(Sunday)Arrival Time(Friday)11:30 a.m 6:30-7:00 p.m.10:30 a.m. 7:00-7:30 p.m.11:30 a.m 6:30-7:00 p.m.10:30 a.m. 7:00-7:30 p.m.8

Health and SafetyAn enjoyable experience begins with a healthy participant. Your child’s good health –physical, social and emotional – are very important to us. Our programs emphasizecareful planning to ensure high safety standards are in place. Staff are trained to respondto emergencies and hold qualifications which support our commitment to safeexperiences. All staff hold current CPR and First Aid Certifications while most staffpossess additional qualifications depending on their role at camp. All counsellors andwaterfront staff are certified lifeguards (NLS).24 Hour SupervisionYMCA Camp Pine Crest provides what we call “24/7” supervision of all of ourcampers. The counsellors are purposely placed in pairs to ensure a high level ofsupervision throughout the session. Our staff balance each other during the session toattend staff meetings, deliver skill instruction and go on day off while ensuring that thecabin group is supervised with a consistent leader. All counsellors sleep in the cabinwith the camper group and are available day and night for emergency situations.Wellness CentreOur Wellness Centre serves the health needs of our campers, developing leaders andstaff. The Wellness Coordinator is in charge of the day to day routine of camper healthchecks before and after canoe trips, delivering medications and handling incidents andaccidents on site. The Wellness Coordinator is joined each session by a volunteer nurseor doctor that provides appropriate medical attention for our camp population. Allparticipants visit with the wellness staff upon arrival to camp, before and after outtripand again before going home.An on-call relationship is maintained with a physician in Bala, only minutes away. TheWellness Coordinator provides educational activities while ensuring the monitoring ofhealth standards and camp cleanliness. We advise families to have their childrenexamined by a physician annually; however, a physician’s signature is not required onthe Health History Form.The Wellness Centre staff will keep you informed about your child’s health, especially inthe case of a change in health or emergency. If you have any concerns or questionsregarding your child’s health while they are at camp, our wellness staff will call you backdirectly to discuss your concerns. In order for us to provide the best care possible foryour child, please make sure to be as specific as possible on your child’s health forms.MealsMost meals during the session are together in our main dining hall Kekindewin. Eachcabin eats together, family style, with plenty of food. Some cabins like to plan an outlunchexcursion during the session where the kitchen provides healthy meals to go forthe group. We may also have special meals planned in our secondary dining hall WinterLodge. Our kitchen staff prepares nutritious, tasty meals and snacks that are consistentwith the Canada Food Guide.Individuals who have special dietary needs can enjoy a supplemental menu modified tosuit her/his needs. These special requests are to be noted on the Camper InformationForm. We provide a vegetarian and lactose-free option at every meal. Both the WellnessCoordinator and the Food Services Supervisor will be on hand during Family Day andthroughout the session if you have any particular concerns about food allergies or dietary9

questions. To help us keep a camp that is safe for campers with various allergies, we ask allparents, friends and relatives of campers not to send parcels of food to camp. Foodpackages brought to camp or received by mail will be held in the camp office until the end ofsession.Nut-SensitivityWhile we cannot guarantee a completely nut-free site, we do take every action possible toensure that children and staff with severe and mild nut allergies are protected. All of ourmeals are prepared without any kind of nut products and we make sure that all campers areaware of products that may have been manufactured in the same factory as other nutproducts.In addition, we ask that you not send any food related products to camp as wemonitor all the packages and food that is brought to camp.EmergenciesDuring our pre-camp training week all staff are trained to deal with all emergency situationsthat could occur during our camp programs. All counselling staff and several noncounsellingstaff have their National Lifesaving Society Lifeguarding qualification (NLS) andare trained in the event of a waterfront or off-site emergency.All YMCA staff are required to hold a current Standard First Aid, WHIMIS training andCPR-C and many staff hold higher qualifications in other safety areas.Active LifestyleCamp is a very active place. We make sure that all of our campers and staff stay healthy bypromoting regular application of sunscreen, adapt our outdoor activities in the case ofextreme weather, provide regular water breaks and ensure that healthy snacks are availablethroughout the day.Waterfront ActivitiesCamp Pine Crest has a very large waterfront and boating is one of our major camp activitieson and off site. For this reason, we require that all staff and campers wear an approved PFDwhile boating. All PFD’s are provided at camp. If you choose to send your child with theirown PFD, please ensure that it is clearly labeled.Lost and FoundOur counsellors do their best to help campers keep their belongings together butoccasionally, items get misplaced. Throughout the camp session, lost and found items aredisplayed for campers to identify and claim. We will make every effort to return unclaimeditems to their respective owners however; the camp is not responsible for the loss or theft ofthese items. The best way to avoid disappointment is to clearly label each piece of clothingand personal equipment with the child’s first and last name. Parents can view lost and founditems on the last day at camp, prior to departure. Unclaimed personal items are donated to alocal charity in the fall.Laundry ServiceOur camp packing list suggests sufficient clothing for a two-week session at camp. We doprovide a laundry service for our two-week and four-week participants. A special service willbe available to accommodate laundry for those campers on canoe trips, campersexperiencing bedwetting, and other special circumstances.10

Dynamic ProgramsOur ProgramWhether enrolled in a one, two, or four-week camp session, participants will find manyoptions to choose from. Our basic program model features a blend of individual choice,small group, and large group program periods.Daily ProgramsEach morning, cabins are encouraged to participate in Radical Risers. This activitycould include morning dip, a hike together, morning paddle or anything else the cabindecides to do together.Following breakfast each day, campers and staff return to their cabin to participate incabin cleanup and try to get a perfect score for the entire session from Captain Cleanup.Skill developmentIndividual choice offerings are organized at the beginning of each week for theremainder of the week for skills time. Each day campers participate in two differentone-hour skill sessions. Each camper has the opportunity in each of our eleven mainskill development areas to earn “levels.” The levels are a series of progressive skills thatcampers can work towards mastery in that particular area. Campers are awarded theirskill cards on the last day of camp at our Awards Ceremony and recognized for theirhard work and achievements.Skill Development Areas:Campers are lead in small groups by qualified staff members to earn levels in one of thefollowing 10 skill development areas:Canoeing: Campers learn the basics of paddling and have the opportunity to earnOntario Recreational Canoeing and Kayaking Association (ORCKA) Flatwater Levelswith Qualified ORCKA Instructors.Swimming: National Lifesaving Society and YMCA Swim Instructors teach basic andadvanced swimming lessons. We can offer Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross ifenough one month campers express interest.Archery: A chance to practice your aim with a bow and arrow at our archery ranges.Kayaking: Qualified Staff provide instruction at the flatwater level, concentrating onbasic strokes and kayaking fundamentals.Music, Guitar, Percussion: Learn basic chords and rhythms and then play and singyour songs at our closing campfire.Natural Arts Centre: Get creative with wood, clay, wax, paper, leather, beads,macramé, and even capture your images doing photography in our dark roomWoodcraft: Build shelters, learn navigation, cook a gourmet meal over the fire,practice for out-trip and much more. Come explore nature with telescopes,microscopes, bugs, gardening, animal tracking, bird watching and exploring site.(formerly ELC and OLS).Snorkelling: Learn the art and science of this popular diving sport.Dramatic Arts: Participate in fun drama games and play a part in an original CampPine Crest Production at campfire.Climbing: For Senior and Pioneer Campers. Learn about rock climbing techniquesand safety and improve your climbing skills.11

Small group activityFor the afternoon and evening, activity choices are made democratically by the cabingroup at the beginning of the session, and modified on any given day to meet thechanging needs of the cabin. Groups chose from an exciting variety of activities thatmay include: canoeing games, cooking pizzas in the pizza oven, playing an excitinggame of survivor, story time, stargazing, low and high ropes adventure based programs,out-lunches, themed programs and much much more!ClubsClubs are held each day before and after dinnertime. Weather permitting, there is alwaysa free swim before and an evening paddle after dinner during Clubs time. The otherclubs that are offered each day are pre-determined by the staff members leading Clubsthat particular day. Past clubs have included letter writing, hip-hop dancing; raftbuilding, fishing, sports on the adventure field, and much more!Section TimeEach cabin becomes part of one of the four camper sections: Bantam, Junior, Senior,and Pioneer. These sections do special programming together occasionally during thesession. Campers are placed in sections according to age and maturity, both in the cabingroup, and in the entire camp for that session. For this reason, the age range of thesections fluctuates slightly; if we have an unusually old or young group of campers, eachsection may include campers who are slightly older or younger than the age ranges listedhere.Bantam typically ages 7 to 9, Outtrip is two days, one nightJunior typically ages 9 to 11, Outtrip is three days, two nightsSenior typically ages 11 to 13, Outtrip is four days, three nightsPioneer typically ages 13 to 15, Outtrip is five days, four nightsOuttrips for campers attending the four-week session will generally be one to three dayslonger than the trip lengths listed here.The Camp Pine Crest OuttripAs traditional feature of the Camp Pine Crest experience all campers go on an outtripwith their cabin group. The youngest groups stay on our “back lakes” campsites and gofor one or two nights. As they get older campers gain more canoeing and campingexperience and venture off site with their equipment for a longer experience. Herecampers develop outdoor living skills and work cooperatively as they learn to appreciatethe natural world.Our groups are driven by 15-passenger van to their location, locally for shorter tripsand venturing to areas such as Algonquin Park, Temagami and Mattawa River.This is not an optional part of our programming at Pine Crest.All Camp Days and EveningsEach session, we start and finish by having an all-camp campfire at one of ourpicturesque outdoor campfire locations. This is a time where cabins or individuals mayperform for the entire camp doing songs, skits, stories and poems. All Camp Days arespecial program times when the camp comes together for some serious fun. Pastthemes have included Pirates Day, Mission Impossible, Star Wars, The Colour Relays,and of course, the age-old tradition of the Pine Crest Games in Session D each year.13

Typical Day at Pine Crest7:15- 7:55 Wake-Up & Radical Risers8:05 Morning Thought/ Flag Raising8:15 Breakfast/ Hobart Quiz9:00-9:30 Cabin Clean-Up Time/Staff Meeting9:45-11:00 Skill Time #111:15-12:15 Skill Time #212:30 Lunch/ Clubs Announcements1:30-2:30 Rest Hour2:30 Cabin Group Activity3:30 Cabin Group Activity4:30 General Swim/ Clubs Time5:30 Dinner6:30 General Boating/ Clubs Time7:30 Evening Program8:30-10:00 Evening snack and bedtime programs.Bantams (ages 7-9): In Bed 9:00-9:30Juniors (ages 9-11): In Bed 9:15-9:45Seniors (ages 11-13): In Bed 9:30-10:00Pioneers (ages 13-15): In Bed 10:00-10:30Leaders(ages 13-17): In Bed 10:30-11:0010:00pm Nighthawk begins (night time patrol)Orientation DayEach session we start off by providing time for cabin groups to learn about all theprograms offered at Camp Pine Crest. Orientation Day is a full day schedule thatincludes visits to the program areas of Natural Arts Centre (NAC), Woodcraft, OutdoorPursuits (Beausoleil), Swimming and Boating, Archery, Music and Drama.During the day, groups also visit with the Wellness Staff and campers have a quick oneon one check in with the Wellness Supervisor to ensure each child’s needs areaddressed.At some point in the session, all cabins will have their cabin photo taken to be senthome with each camper. These photos are also used in our promotional and alumnimaterial in future years.13

Swim TestFinally, a major part of orientation day is for each camper to complete their swim test atthe swim docks. This is a mandatory evaluation of swim levels to ensure that staff areprepared to support campers at all levels. Cabin groups learn about the expectations onthe waterfront from the Waterfront Area Heads and then complete as much of theswim test as they can.Level Able to Swim ColourA10 lengthsTread water for 2 minutesWhiteB6 lengthsTread water for 2 minutesBlueC2 lengthsTread water for 1 minuteGreenD less than 2 lengths RedRed tag swimmers are considered non-swimmers and must wear a PFD whileswimming. Campers may try to achieve the next level at any time during the sessionunder the supervision of their counsellors.On the second day of camp, all campers receive a “buddy number” for the session aswell as a coloured chip for a necklace to signify their swimming level for our lifeguards.The necklaces are to remain on each camper for the entire session so we can ensureimmediate recognition of specific skill levels when campers enter the waterfront.The “buddy number” is the check in and check out system for our boating andswimming activities. This system ensures that all children and staff are accounted forwhile at the waterfront. Each camper will receive their number on the first day and willuse it for the remainder of the session when they go to the waterfront. If they forgettheir number, our lifeguards will assist them.Dunk TestJust like the swim test, on orientation day, campers complete what we call a “dunk test”to see how comfortable they are in boats. This test prepares campers for the possibilityof “dunking” and keeps them calm and collected if they happen to tip.Staff will be in the water with children that are more nervous. Counsellors work withcampers to explain the process to them and make it fun as well.Every camper and staff wear PFD’s while in boats, on sail boards and while snorkeling(for smaller children). This is a camp wide rule for both safety and positive rolemodelling.15

Leadership & Adventure LeadershipAges 13-16• Junior Adventure Leadership can expect an outtrip of 10 days in length.• Adventure Leadership can expect an outtrip of 15- 21 days.• Senior Adventure Leadership can expect an outtrip of at least 28 days.• Junior Leadership can expect an outtrip of at least 7 days and an overnight hike.• Leaders in Training can expect an outtrip of approximately 14 days in length thatmay combine canoeing and hiking.• Counsellors in Training can expect an outtrip of approximately 5 days in length.Leadership and Adventure Leadership participants are a special group of people. Theseindividuals are motivated to be positive camp role models, contribute to the growth ofYMCA Camp Pine Crest and to develop themselves through specialized skill-basedprograms and unique opportunities while at camp.All Adventure Leadership andLeadership participants must attendthe appropriate InformationSessions in June to ensure theyunderstand all expectations andrequirements for their programs.While most of these participantshave been coming for many yearsand know how to pack for camp,there are some specific items thatleaders may want to bring along.Additional Items for Leadership Participants:Journal and pen or pencil, alarm clock or watch with alarm, any preferred personalcanoe trip gear (therma rests, dry bags etc).Extra Bonuses:Leadership participants will be allowed extra laundry days throughout their month atcamp. Depending on the length of outtrip for these programs, participants may not beon site to use laundry more than stated above.Counsellors In Training will also have a scheduled and chaperoned night out for dinnerand a movie during their program. These participants work very hard during their timeat camp and deserve a break from regular routine to bond with their leaders and groupin a relaxed setting. Details about night out to be discussed at the LeadershipInformation Night June 15, 2010. These participants will have access to return emailsonce during the month.Adventure Leadership Information Night: June 8, 2010.15

Communication with YMCA Camp Pine CrestWe understand the feelings that families experience throughout the process of planningand participating in the camp experience, especially if it’s for the first time. We alsoknow that it is important that you be comfortable with how you can communicate withus at the YMCA.PhoneBy calling the numbers below you will reach our camp office.Our office staff will be on hand to assist you between 8:30AM and 8:30PM during thesummer. If you call after hours, we will do our best to return your call as soon aspossible. Please note that during meal times, the phone will be unattended but we willreturn calls immediately after meals.Registration OfficeYMCA Camp Pine Crest103-60 Centurian DriveMarkham, ONL3R 8T6Phone: (905) 480-9612 ext 330Fax:(905) 943-7612Camp OfficeYMCA Camp Pine Crest1090 Gullwing Lake Rd.Torrance, ONP0C 1M0Phone: (705) 762-33771-877-878-9622Fax: (705) 762-5961E-MailWe are able to receive e-mails for campers at camp. E-mails are printed daily and placedin the child’s mailboxes. If you wish to send your child an e-mail, please includeyour child’s name and cabin in the subject line. This will make it easier for ourstaff to find the appropriate mailbox. Due to the high number of emails received daily,campers are not permitted to use the computer to return your emails. Exception isgranted for CIT participants only.On occasion, like most computers, ours will be uncooperative. We appreciate yourpatience and understanding during these times, as we try hard to keep our computer upand running throughout the summer.Feel free to email your child at the following email address:Email: Camp.Pinecrest@ymcagta.orgPlease include the child’s name and cabin in the subject heading.Camper Mail and Care PackagesAll campers enjoy receiving mail, and we encourage parents and family members towrite often. Cheerful letters from home raise the spirits of campers and bring aboutpleasant thoughts of home and loved ones. Campers are encouraged to write homedaily during the afternoon rest hour and during special “letter writing” clubs. To assistcampers, please include self-addressed, stamped envelopes, writing paper and pens inyour child’s luggage. Food packages brought to camp or received by mail will be held inthe camp office until the end of session. If you choose to send a care package we askthat you follow these guidelines:16

• No nuts of any kind-we are a nut-sensitive site in respect to our campers andstaff that are allergic to nuts.• No candy or food.• Consider including fun and small gifts for the entire cabin if sending gifts.• Photographs of family members and pets are often appreciated.The address to send mail to your camper is:CAMPER NAMEYMCA CAMP PINE CREST1090 GULLWING LAKE ROADTORRANCE, ONTARIO P0C 1M0Visiting CampThe first day of each session is Family Day! This special day is a chance for families tomeet the camp counsellors, enjoy the facilities and have a buffet lunch! The Family Dayprogram begins at 11:00AM. With lunch available beginning at 11:30AM. Families areasked to depart by 2:00PM so that we can begin programming.Parents and visitors are reminded that YMCA Camp Pine Crest is smoke free. Thispolicy affects all buildings, grounds, and those programs conducted off-site. We ask thatfamilies who bring their dogs to camp on Family Day keep them on a lease and out ofour camp buildings.We strongly discourage visits to camp during your child’s session. From experiencewe find it is harder for children to adjust to camp when they see their parents andalso have a much harder time adjusting after they have left. We also find that otherchildren in the cabin have a hard time understanding why all parents are not allowedto attend once there has been a visitor. For the safety of all children, we do notallow parents to integrate into the camp session. Only under special circumstanceswill parents be allowed to visit during the session and only with prior consent fromthe Camp Director.Please come to camp during Family Day or Family Camp if you would like toparticipate with your child.Family CampEach year we provide time for a Family CampWeek in the summer. This program isexclusively for families and includes traditionalcamp activities for all ages.This year’s dates are August 1-6, 2010. Pleaserefer to our brochure and website for moreinformation regarding these programs or contactSuzy.pollard@ymcagta.org for moreinformation.18

The Camp StoreThis summer we are pleased to offer the following items in our camp store. Our store isopen for business on arrival day, departure day and most of the time in between. Weaccept cash, cheque, debit and credit cards at camp. If we do not have an item, we maybe able to order it for you. You can also pre-order all basic merchandise on ourregistration forms or in our online registration at www.camppinecrest.ca• Pine Crest 1L bottle• Winter toques• T-shirts and long sleeved shirtsvariousstyles• Hats• Sweatshirts• Travel mugs• Post Cards• Pine Crest badges• Pine Crest Stickers2010 Celebration! For our 100 th Anniversary year, every camper will receive a free t-shirtwhen they come to camp! Please make sure to fill out your child’s size on the registrationform.Directions to YMCA Camp Pine CrestFrom Toronto & the SouthTake Highway 400 north to Barrie, then Highway 11 north to Gravenhurst. AtGravenhurst take Highway 169 about 21km northwest to Torrence. Turn left ontoSouthwood road and immediately left again onto Clear Lake Road. Camp is about3.3km down the road.From North Bay & the NorthFollow Highway 11 south to Highway 169 at Gravenhurst. Take Highway 169 about21km northwest to Torrence. Turn left onto Southwood Road and immediately leftagain onto Clear Lake Road. Camp is about 3.3km down the road.From Sudbury & the WestFollow Highway 69 south through Parry Sound to Highway 169 at Foot's Bay. TakeHighway 169 southeast about 25km through Bala to Torrence. Turn right ontoSouthwood Road and immediately left again onto Clear Lake Road. Camp is about3.3km down the road.From Ottawa & the EastTake Highway 60 west through Algonquin Park to Highway 11 at Huntsville. TakeHighway 11 south about 52km to Highway 169 at Gravenhurst. Take Highway 169about 21km northeast to Torrence. Turn left onto Southwood Road and immediatelyleft again onto Clear Lake Road. Camp is about 3.3km down the road.18

Map to Camp18