How Summer Camp Changes Lives

With summer just around the corner, Salvation Army camps are gearing up to provide vulnerable children the time of their life.

SalvationArmy.ca recently spoke with Captain Rick Zelinsky, executive director of The Salvation Army’s Ontario Camping Ministries, to get an overview of the many benefits that camping provides.

What is the purpose of Salvation Army camping ministries?

Salvation Army camps provide financially accessible camping opportunities to families in need. Campers often come from difficult situations and through the kindness of caring and encouraging staff their self-worth is built up.

Why send your child to camp?

Camp is an experience like no other that can change young peoples’ lives and outlook   forever.

At camp, kids gain friends, learn new skills and discover things about themselves they didn’t know.

For many, camp is a refuge, a safe place, where kids can be kids. They experience activities they may not otherwise have opportunity to do such as mountain biking, rock climbing and archery.

What is camp food like?

Our menu follows the Canada Food guide and our kitchen staff are fully trained in proper food handling.

We provide three nutritious meals and snacks every day. That amount of food isn’t a reality for most kids. It’s an eye opener when they fill their plates because they don’t normally know when their next meal may be. 

How are staff screened and trained?

All staff have a vulnerable sector police check, provide three references and go through an in-depth interview process.

Some come with qualifications and others receive in-house training. As well, we provide a week-long orientation that includes health and safety training, team building skills and activity training.

We look for people with servant hearts, character and lots of energy.

What new activities are you introducing this year?

It’s important to introduce new activities so that kids continue to be excited about camp. This year we have introduced a human foosball game, a life-size Hungry Hippo, disc and Frisbee golf and Geocaching, an outdoor treasure hunt game.

Activities are designed for different age groups. Along with program activities, young people enjoy campfires, themed evening programs and more.

Does The Salvation Army follow-up with campers?

This year we will be sending report cards back to families, as well as to The Salvation Army ministry units who have made it possible for kids to come to camp. The report cards will highlight successes and explain challenges, if any.

Mid-year we send postcards to keep connected and that will hopefully encourage kids to come back.

For over 115 years, The Salvation Army has provided camping programs for children in need. In Canada, more than 4,000 children attend Salvation Army sleep-away and day camps each summer.

Every child should have the opportunity to experience summer camp. Click here to help give a child the joy of attending camp. Your donation will have a lasting impact on a young life full of potential.