YMCA of Columbia-Willamette Camp Collins Testimonials

Testimonials
Please read these personal testimonies and see what people are saying about YMCA Camp Collins.
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Camping Adventure A Success
Eleven-year-old Kaleigh recently had her first overnight camping experience at Camp Collins. Because this was a first, she and her family were a little nervous. Kaleigh said, “I was kind of scared because I didn’t know what to expect.” But, according to her mother Lauren, “We felt welcome from the moment we arrived. This gave me, as a parent, great confidence that my child was in good hands. The counselors were friendly, the camp setting was beautiful and the cabins were amazing.”

Lauren was a little concerned about the daily chapel time. However, this turned out to be one of Kaleigh’s favorite parts of the day in part because it was presented in such a way that children of all faiths would feel comfortable. Lauren said,“Overall, we were extremely happy with Camp Collins. Thank you for a wonderful camp experience.” Kaleigh added, “And, the meals were really, really good.”

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Don't Jump Off the Top Bunk
Two thousand children spend a week at Camp Collins each year. They return home with dirty clothes, memories of nature hikes and stories of their favorite camp counselor. Meet 19-year-old Danielle Beauchaine, known to her 7- to 9-year-old charges as DotCom. She’s the kid taking care of our kids at camp. In purple hoodie and blue jeans she can console a homesick third-grader with a single hug. She came to Camp Collins nine years ago as a camper and still remembers her first counselor.

Every week she watched over a dozen new girls and can't imagine a summer anywhere else. “It's a place where I feel really happy,” Beauchaine says. “You can see the passion she has for camp in her eyes and you can hear it in her voice,” says Willard Burks, Camp Collins executive director. Her campers leave hand written notes on the cabin walls that include, “I miss you a lot,” and “You’re an awesome counselor.” Danielle’s parents have watched her use the leadership skills she developed at camp in all parts of her life, from the high school color guard to her transition to college. Danielle’s experiences at Camp Collins have forever changed her life.

Camper Turned Camp Counselor
Six-year old Collette fell in love with camp on her first day at Camp Collins. Now a freshman at Pacific University, this is her eleventh year and she is now a camp counselor. “The counselors gave their summers to us kids and now it is my turn to do the same.” One summer she met second grader Cristina who attended for the first time. According to Collette, “Cristina was fearless, full of laugher and willing to try everything.” Her mother Laura says, “Cristina was happy to be at camp, learned a lot and looks forward to attending again. She is interested in animals and in the environment and loved the horses.”

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Teen Camp Opens Doors
This past summer Tahnae attended Teen Camp at YMCA Camp Collins. Teen Camp is a two-week session for older campers emphasizing self-discovery, teamwork and personal responsibility. Tahnae was initially frightened to be away from her family. But, the experience turned out to be amazing. She loved the camping and horseback riding and conquered her fear of heights through the support of her counselors and peers. “I was crying and shaking when we started the high rope. I sat down on the ground and sobbed. But I did it! And, it was truly amazing.”

The words of encouragement she received lifted her to new heights. At the end of the two weeks Tahnae said, “It was the best time I ever had and I didn’t want to leave.” She attended the camp through a YMCA scholarship, which paid part of the cost. According to Tahnae, “This opened a new door in my life and taught me how to deal with different and challenging situations.” CASA volunteer Susan Fernald helped Tahnae get into Teen Camp. According to Susan, “We are truly grateful for this YMCA program.”