Camp is the only week of the year that children and counselors are able to escape from all reality. They are able to leave their worries behind to be kids for a week! I was blessed with the opportunity to be involved for 7 years as a counselor and dean at Camp Whitewood in Windsor, Ohio. Campers are able to learn so much about different people without electronics for a week. We see many children who step out of their comfort zone, meet new people, try new things they can't experience at home, and our favorite part...sing and dance to silly songs under the rec pad. From my own experience and the bonds I've made with campers, they have said that camp is the best week of their lives.

Why do they think it is the best week ever?

1. They get to try new things.

Camp encourages children to step out of their comfort zone and exposes them to new activities and experiences that they may not be familiar with or be able to try back at home. Campers get the opportunity to try out different things and discover new hobbies or passions like riflery, archery, boating, swimming, hiking, and all sorts of crafts. By exploring various types of activities, children have a greater chance of finding something that they excel at or boosts their confidence.

2. Develop social skills. "My daughter said Camp Whitewood helped her overcome her shyness and be herself. She loves to reunite with the counselor's every year, and talks about all the funny things they've done together even from years ago. She says archery was her favorite activity and she can't wait to be a counselor when she's older!"

Camp teaches children to communicate, to work together as part of a team and to be a leader. Leadership is developed by asking campers to volunteer to have a leading role in an activity or encouraging other campers to participate.

3. The opportunity to face challenges and learn the value of hard work.

4. Build character.

5. To foster independence. "My daughter loved the independence of being without her parents for a week. Meeting new friends, and being active. She loved her color group and counselors, and the ability to be herself all week...Favorite activity was the candle lighting. She looks forward to being a counselor soon."

I know camp has changed so many lives. By the end of the week, we all come together and mold like a family. There are so many bonds and memories made in just a week. Campers have told me that it brought them out of their shell to try new things and they have made so many friends. Camp makes them do silly things without feeling like they are being judged. Camp is where you can be yourself, and be proud of who you are.

"My favorite part about camp is just being together and singing camp songs. It makes me think about nothing else but, being happy around my camp family. One of my favorite memories is when cabin 1 got down on their hands and knees and act like a farm animal because our cabin was messy. Camp means everything to me, it makes me be myself around others. I love being around so many people who have fun and they are also being their selves. Even though it was my last year at camp as a camper, it was my favorite year. I've captured so many memories and found so many new friends. If it was possible to go back every year just as a camper I would. I miss it so so much."

"Camp was the highlight of my summers. When I first went to camp, I was extremely shy to a point where I wouldn't talk to many people. Over the years through being a camper and a counselor, I became more outgoing and not only made lifelong friendships, but I gained a family. Camp has even helped me realize my future as an educator. I wouldn't be the person I am today without Camp Whitewood." -Karissa Hartzell Camp Whitewood Alumni, OSU sophomore.

"My two children have gone the last 3 years. Every year they have a wonderful experience. Meeting new kids, swimming, paddle boarding. They look forward to the great food!!! They love their counselors and look forward to becoming one, one day themselves. As parents we love the educational experience they receive, and to know they're in great hands for the week. Safe and HAPPY! Thank you Camp Whitewood for creating a childhood experience they will never forget!!!"

I'd like to thank 4-H for getting me involved in camp, and finding my passion and career. The love I have for kids, nature, leadership skills, and responsibility. Camp Whitewood has molded me into the person I am today.

*All photos were taken at Camp Whitewood this summer with parental permission to be released on the internet.*