Tracy's Desk

Greetings from Tracy’s Desk!

It’s hard to believe another Summer Camp season has come and gone. It feels as if yesterday I was opening camp buildings and adding assignments to my ‘to-do list’. Despite facing a variety of challenges, our 2009 season was an incredibly rewarding summer for both staff and campers.  

As I began the task of opening up camp during the first week of June, I was devastated to learn that The Summer Camp had fallen victim to thieves during the winter months. An array of items necessary for every day operations, from electronics to medical supplies, had been stolen. It was unfortunate to suffer such a setback so early in the season, but that didn’t dampen our spirits. With help from our dedicated Board and supporters, we replaced the items and welcomed our first session campers as scheduled on June 21^st. 

Mother Nature challenged us with record breaking rain and low temperatures during our first and second sessions. Even though we were at the mercy of a soaking rain, the girls enjoyed most of The Summer Camp activities, such as arts and crafts, science explorers, photography, drama and indoor games. The counselors were extraordinary as they worked together to give the campers The Summer Camp experience they had been hoping for. Each camper experienced her first overnight camp-out and s’mores, thanks to the fireplace in our dance hall. By the end of July, during our third session, the rain clouds subsided and peeks of sun brightened the Washington sky. From then on, Summer Campers enjoyed perfect summer days with little humidity and no precipitation. For the first time in years, we also had perfect weather for our Hiking and Canoeing session!

With the threat of the H1N1 virus looming at sleep-away camps nationwide, The Summer Camp followed the Centers for Disease Control protocol to reduce the risk of a potential outbreak. We are happy to report that no campers contracted the virus while at The Summer Camp. One counselor tested positive for the H1N1 virus; CDC protocols were followed and the virus was not able to spread. Having campers and counselors from all over the United States living together in close proximities, we were thankful that we had limited exposure to the H1N1 virus.

At first glance, the 2009 summer season looked bleak with its financial, health and weather challenges. Thanks to TSC’s loyal supporters and a great group of enthusiastic counselors, we overcame these challenges and provided memorable summer adventures for each of our 349 campers. Our girls rose above these challenges surrounded by positive role models who impacted their lives in ways that will continue to aid them in the struggles they face on a daily basis.

Thank you!