At the recent Diocese of Eastern Michigan Convention, one clergy person approached the microphone to ask, “How is Camp Chick?”  She expressed concern over communications and specifically mentioned the late mailing of Camp Brochures.

In retrospect, we’re glad for the question.  We’re pleased for the concern for the youth of the diocese and interest in camp’s well being.

So…  How is Camp Chick?  Actually, in many ways, we are having a banner year!

Some celebrations…

  • We put out our first newsletter, last winter, in years.
  • We had strong attendance at Spring Work Week.
  • Our Youth Camps were fully staffed.
  • We had critical mass in attendance.
  • The quality of our youth camps, in terms of program, staffing and strengthened health and safety practices, continues get even better.
  • Our board met in late August for a Visioning Retreat too.

The board retreat deserves special mention.  During our retreat time, we considered, what it is that we celebrate about Camp Chick and what do we see as obstacles or challenges to overcome.  We also asked ourselves these questions…  “What do we/ what does God dream for Camp Chickagami?  How can we be a stronger resource for the Diocese of Eastern Michigan?”

Hopes and dreams came pouring out!  The possibilities are exciting!  Our efforts in this area will continue this spring, in consultation with the diocesan office, as we move from visioning to strategic planning to implementation.
Some of our more immediate plans for improvement include:

  • Resurfacing the tennis court.
  • Remodeling the “Head”.
  • Hiring a seasonal Waterfront Director/ Assistant Caretaker
  • Contracting a graphic artist to design our camp brochure.

So, how is Camp Chick?  Truthfully, we’re in a stronger place than we’ve been in years.  We’re hopeful about the future.  New energy is emerging.   Thanks for asking!

By Kris Forsyth