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YMCA Builds Confidence, Connections and Character at Camp

The YMCA of the North (YGTC), a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, offers camp opportunities across the metro to keep kids active and learning during the summer months.

When school is out for the summer, many kids don’t get enough opportunities for physical activity, learning or social interaction. When they go back to school, they face hurdles that prevent them from reaching their full potential. YMCA camps provide meaningful outdoor experiences for urban and suburban youth that give them the opportunity to build new skills, make new friends and discover who they want to be. 

“YMCA camps provide a safe environment for kids to explore the outdoors, learn new skills and build confidence,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YGTC. “Y camps welcome everyone, whether they be a first-time camper or an international counselor. Kids at camp form lifelong friendships that cut across borders and boundaries.”  

Kranz added that Y camps offer opportunities to explore a variety of new and unique activities, including horseback riding, fishing, science, climbing, canoeing, kayaking and more.

Discover how first-time campers felt confident, included and empowered at Y day camp – YMCA Welcomes First Time Campers

Learn how camp provides opportunities for fun, responsibility, and new experiences through special activities like horseback riding – YMCA Camps: Learning through Horses.

See how YMCA counselors from across the globe – the U.K., South Africa, Australia, Columbia, Brazil, Turkey and more – bring a new perspective to camp and find a home away from home – YMCA Camps: Counselors from Around the World.

For more than 100 years, YGTC camps have offered an enriching experience with caring counselors who allow campers the freedom to be themselves. The Y offers 10 day camps throughout the metro, four overnight camps in Minnesota and Wisconsin, and two teen wilderness camps and two family camps in northern Minnesota. To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to participate, need-based financial assistance is available. Learn more about the Y’s camp programs.