September 18, 2020 Category: Our Programs

Fresh Air Family Wellness: Outdoor Adventures, Family Time and Nature Offer Rejuvenation to NYC Families

Just two hours away from NYC, at The Fund’s camps in New York’s Mid-Hudson Valley, the Fresh Air Family Wellness program has offered NYC families the chance to relax, enjoy the fresh air, explore nature, spend time together and experience camp activities like swimming, hiking and kayaking.  

Many families have shared with us that the day at camp was the first time they have been able to enjoy family time outdoors safely since March. With so many fun activities available – from arts & crafts to fishing or visiting the camp planetarium or model farm, the day is full of outdoor adventures! The Fresh Air Family Wellness program is designed to follow all safety protocols including wearing masks and physical distancing.  

Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words, so we hope you enjoy some of our favorite Family Wellness photos! 

At Camp Hidden Valley, families relaxed while fishing together – that is until the excitement of catching a big one!  
Families unlocked their creativity with a relaxing painting session inspired by the beautiful scenery at The Fund’s Sharpe Reservation.
The Quishpe family was full of smiles while cooling down and playing water games in the pool.  
At Camp ABC, the Humphrey Family learned so much during their Nature Discovery adventure – like how an acorn has an inner shell!
Decorating bird houses was a favorite arts & crafts activity! 
Even the simple things like jumping rope are so much fun when you’re surrounded by fresh air and family!  
Many families enjoyed visiting our camp model farm. Part of the fun was helping feed the animals and of course harvesting and sampling vegetables from the garden. 
With the guidance of camp staff, families experienced outdoor education while hiking at Camp Hidden Valley. 
At Camp Junior, families have fun kayaking while admiring the beautiful scenery at Harriman State Park. 
Thanks to a generous donor, each family was able to bring home a box of vegetables and other items from local Hudson Valley farms.  

“COVID-19 has changed the way we do things. While I was hesitant at first, from the moment we arrived during check-in to the activities or the snacks and meals provided and the dining set-up, my mind was at ease,” says New York City mom, Cassandra. “My girls and I enjoyed the activities offered to us. From watercolor painting, fishing to swimming. I loved how they have the swimming pool sectioned off per family to ensure social distancing. We really appreciated the break we had from being indoors in the City.”  

Learn more about Fresh Air Family Wellness and about how The Fund’s Summer 2020 Programs kept the magic of summer alive for thousands of NYC children and families. 

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