Both new and familiar faces arrived at the sunny 4-H acres Monday morning to begin staff training week! During this week, staff come together for learning and expanding their outdoor skills through games and activities.
As the new summer photojournalist, I was initially nervous as I approached the Kiwanis Building where everyone was standing. However, as soon as opening circle started, I became more at ease as I recognized a friendly and supportive environment. To start our activities for the day, we split into groups led by an experienced instructor. My group, led by Sean, had an exciting time navigating the campsites using a compass and map, and then meeting up with other groups to play games and explore the forest. After lunch, we went down to the Trillium campsite, where there is a garden. We then made tea using lemon balm and nettle leaves after doing a plant-identifying game. We sat nestled under the trees and drank our tea. I was in awe of the unique and beautiful ways I learned how to explore the outdoors while surrounded by the most friendly and amazing people.
Throughout the middle of the week, we started learning more about the camp and how it is run. I continuously appreciated all of the work and amazing activities that the camp staff plan and execute. The groups really started bonding as we did activities together.
On Friday, we did a ceremony to celebrate the beginning of the camp season and appreciate the Earth and people around us. We then played a fun game of capture the flag.
Each day, we took time to recognize the land share our gratitude for something we appreciated. I really enjoyed this and felt more and more connected to the community throughout the week. I had amazing week of appreciation and fun, and I cannot wait to start the rest of the summer!
Hallie Allport is serving as the 2024 summer photojournalist, she is from Dryden and excited to photograph and document the exciting adventures at camp. She is looking forward to spending the summer meeting new people and being in the outdoors. She is currently pursuing a Film Production degree at the Rochester Institute of Technology.