Never underestimate the transformative power of a camp out.
Staff training continues here at Camp, and Summer Staff members have been busy this week with all sorts of activities. From department set-up to tipi-pitching to interactive lessons with the administrative team to community-building sessions with a facilitator (who’s also a Camp alum), the training schedule has been packed. Days start early and end late as we work to get ourselves ready for the summer and Camp ready for our campers.
Yet between the formal gatherings and assignments, staff have still found times to connect with one another. Campfires on South Beach, singing and playing music together in the Lodge, and late-night-snacking and socializing have led to laughter, conversation, and discovery. However, it wasn’t until the group broke into smaller units and spread out across the property on overnight trips that deeper bonds began to solidify.
During the overnight, the teams practiced their camping skills, setting up tarp shelters and cooking meals over campfires. Overnight trips are an essential element of campers’ experience during their time at Camp. So it’s important that all staff train to provide a solid foundation of outdoor skills for their campers. But somewhere between skills verifications and falling asleep together in a warm, cozy circle under the stars, something magical occurred.
No better place for community-building than around a campfire!
One staff member described the exact moment when things changed. In the middle of a lively group discussion, she realized that “we were hanging out together not as co-workers, but just as friends.”
Camp responsibilities momentarily forgotten, the line between co-workers and friends blurred. Dynamics were changing, and real relationships were developing. Not only could we identify bonds forming for the summer, but we recognized the potential for life-long friendships.
All smiles on the staff overnight trip!
In the morning, the groups returned to the Lodge, elated by their camp out experiences. Many of the staff members considered one another friends before they left, but there was a notable difference in the group upon its return. Something wonderful happened out there in the woods, and the staff community is stronger for it. The bonds formed on these first-week overnights will only continue to grow.
These are the kinds of experiences that the entire Nor’wester staff is excited to share with our campers. These are the memories that stick with us, years and even decades after we leave Camp. These are the moments that change everything.