For many of us, summer camp was a time of fun, adventure, and making new friends. To celebrate the season, Camp Ardenwoods kicked off August with engagement opportunities for every resident. Colorful brochures were handed out before the first of the month, along with wristbands color-coordinated to four different cabins. Throughout the month, residents have enjoyed reliving memories of their youthful days at summer camp.
Camp Ardenwoods was the idea of Kari Schrader, Community Life Services Director. The Camp includes everything from cabin competitions to the opportunity to earn badges. Engagement opportunities are varied so that people of any ability can participate.
Complying with CDC COVID-19 guidelines, the “cabins” are virtual. Residents live in their apartments, but are assigned color-coded wristbands to identify their cabin affiliation: red, green, yellow, and blue. For residents who don’t feel comfortable or are not able to attend the socially distanced events, there are plenty of virtual opportunities available, such as completing a maze puzzle and turning it in for a prize!
The first half of the month has been busy. No summer camp would be complete without relay races or arts and crafts, and Camp Ardenwoods doesn’t disappoint. Some residents are earning badges by participating in a resident-led bible study, attending a movie on Navajo history, or hiking our trails. Camp sing-a-longs at the fire pit and s’mores have added to the nostalgic atmosphere and the residents’ general enjoyment.
As Kari says, “This has brought back memories of summer camp for many of our residents. They have been wearing their wristbands throughout the month, and everyone is excited to see the dining room decorated each week with a different cabin’s colors and each cabin resident’s name on the fireplace.”
Whether participating virtually, attending every event, or just soaking in the fun, Camp Ardenwoods proves you can enjoy summer camp at any age. Stay tuned for more Camp updates in next week’s blog!