CAMP SWIFT - SESSION 1 2019, DAY 1!

​The fun began early at Camp Swift! High school counselors and college support staff spent Thursday and Friday bonding as a team and becoming better friends with one another in preparation for the campers arrival on Saturday. Cabin and bed signs were made, program boxes were created, and team-building activities were planned for the campers’ arrival. All staff and counselors were trained on how to help make this the best week of campers’ lives! And, of course, a Camp Swift orientation wouldn’t be complete without a 5-legged race and a game of capture the flag!

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As the busses arrived on Saturday and campers stepped off, excited for the best week of their life, they were greeted by college banners and chants! The campers entered the amphitheater, excitedly discussing which college their cabin would represent. The kids quickly understood the value of college and how Swift can support them as they reach for their goals.

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​After meeting their new cabinmates and learning fun cheers, the campers had their basic needs met by eating a delicious meal of pasta, salad, and fruit. High school counselors helped serve the campers and keep them hydrated as the campers began a long day of fun. After lunch, campers had the chance to visit our Krazy Keppies store! At Krazy Keppies, campers had the chance to select new warm clothes, towel, sleeping bags, and any other necessities they may have forgot. Once the campers had their basic needs met with warm clothes and full stomachs, we began a great afternoon!

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​Our youngest unit was able to practice their friendship skills in the pool and on the sports court! Our middle unit spent their time developing an interest in exploration on a hike and at the art shack. Our oldest unit built their sense of independence on the rock wall. They also became more confident problem solvers during science.

​In preparation for dinner, our amazing unit heads and counselors taught our campers some of the Camp Swift traditional songs. After cheering as loud as they could, the oldest campers went on a short hike and enjoyed hot dogs around a campfire. Our middle and youngest campers had a tasty dinner of tacos and hamburgers in the lodge. Once dinner was over, our youngest unit took part in the Pentathlon program! The Pentathlon program includes 5 different games and activities for the campers. Each of these games is college-themed and helps campers use their friendship skills and perceived competence. The middle unit took part in the Game of Life night program which helped campers understand how to make responsible choices and exercise their independence, while having fun.

​We had an action-filled day of fun at Camp Swift! Please follow along every evening to find out more about how we make Camp Swift the best week of a child’s life.

Author Spotlight 
Thank you to Grant Frailich, long-time support staff, for authoring this edition of the Grilled Cheese Gazette blog post. Grant now lives in Las Vegas but has been volunteering with the Swift Youth Foundation for over a decade.