Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Girls Camp 2016

It's that time of year again, and we can hardly wait to get to girls camp! Our committee has been working with our YCLs planning camp for 7 months, and we can't wait to get to camp, making our plans a reality.

I thought it would be a good idea to write some answers to our frequently asked questions here so that you can use it as a reference.

Q.  Why are we camping as a stake instead of as a ward?
A.  This is by far the most asked question we receive. I can assure you that we don't take this decision lightly, and it is one that we have prayed about and feel strongly about. There are so many good things that can happen at a stake camp and ward camp. We believe that our girls should experience both which is why every other year is a ward camp. At stake camp, our YCLs are given an opportunity to take charge and be an integral part of camp planning. They are able to see the behind the scenes work and take part in it for months beforehand. We feel the leadership skills they acquire in doing this are skills that they will refer to for the rest of their lives. We also feel like unity as a stake is a valuable thing. Having the girls meet and interact with other girls their age and have an opportunity to create new friendships is an amazing aspect of stake camp. We have heard many accounts of girls that are still best friends with girls that they met while at stake camp two years ago that they never would have met otherwise. There is a power in allowing the girls to be on their own without their safety blanket (their ward) and it is empowering for them. One of my favorite things was seeing the girls laughing and connecting with the girls their own age. When they were around girls that weren't in their age groups, there was love and excitement as they shared stories and exchanged hugs. It may be easier for us as a stake to keep the girls at camp in their wards, BUT, we believe the time and effort is worth the end result and hope that by the end of camp, you will see that too.

Q.  What are the responsibilities of the ward leaders?
A.  Every ward will be responsible for one meal, providing enough tents and transportation for each girl and leader in their ward, and making sure all forms are collected from every girl coming to camp. Each ward leader that is coming to camp will be assigned to an age group and asked to work with the YCLs over that group to make camp a great experience. The ward leaders will also be responsible for providing an activity for the ward time Thursday from 3-5 while at camp.

Q. What time and where are we meeting to go up to camp?
A. The 4th years and YCLs will be going up to camp on Monday, August 1. They will be meeting at the stake center at 8:30, loading the cars, and then leaving by 9:00. The rest of the girls will be coming up to camp on Tuesday. They will be meeting at 8:30 and leaving by 9:00 as well.

Q. Can we wear yoga pants for hikes?
A. Yes.

Q. Will there be electricity?
A. There is electricity at the lodge, but not at the campsites and will not be made available to campers. Don't plan on bringing any electrical devices to camp.

Please let us know if there is anything we can help you with or answer any questions. The contact information for the entire camp committee can be found in the contact section at the top. See you soon!

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