While most children will spend part of their summers at camps meant to improve their soccer game, tumbling ability or even cooking know-how, boys and girls who participate in a week-long camp offered by HACC will walk away with a new appreciation for the world around them.

 

For the second year in a row, HACC will present the Junior Naturalist and Outdoor Adventure Camp the week of July 9-13, 2007, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In cooperation with American Adventure Sports, LLC and the Wildwood Lake Sanctuary, children ages 7-12 will be encouraged to explore their natural world through participation in outdoor adventure sports, such as orienteering, canoeing, rock climbing, rappelling and much more.

They also will learn the importance of protecting their environment through conservation education.

"Our campers receive eight hours of conservation education and are certified as junior naturalists," explained Don Koones, director, Community Education Center. "They also participate in environmental enhancement projects that give them ownership of their environment, encourage environmental stewardship and place an emphasis on teamwork."

Returning for the second year as a camp instructor is Douglas Crytzer. Crytzer is currently completing a tour in Iraq and has been working with HACC long distance to finalize plans. Like his fellow instructors, he is Swift Water Rescue certified, CPR certified and Wilderness 1st Aid certified.

The Adventure Camp also has several certified Rappel Masters, Lifeguards, Leave No Trace trainers and a Mountaineering Instructor on staff, who focus on teaching campers water safety, water rescue, wilderness first aid, how to assess and manage risk, and introduction to CPR.

"By building a foundation of trust, we become mentors and get the children to step outside of their comfort zone," explained Crytzer. "This is important for individual realization and growth. Our motto is 'The only failure is in not trying.'"

New activities added to the program this year include freshwater snorkeling, wood crafting, wilderness survival and a confidence course.

Campers will need to pack a daily nutritious lunch that includes plenty of fluids to support their active schedule. Everyone is required to bring bug repellent, swimsuit and sunscreen. The cost of the program is $249.

For more information on the Junior Naturalist and Outdoor Adventure Camp, contact Jennifer Tharpe, HACC Community Education Center, at 717-780-2587 or email jgtharpe@hacc.edu.