Halfway Through Summer: A Look at Some of Our Favorite Moments

Believe it or not, we are almost half-way through our camp season! With Session 1 and 2 already finished, we only have a few more weeks left of another incredible summer. From the first day of camp to the last, countless memories and friendships have been made. Here are a few of our favorite moments so far! 

The First Day

Nothing beats the feeling of stepping off the bus and seeing camp for the first time. Day one is full of learning camp chants, meeting counselors and cabin mates and exploring the outdoors! While it may be nerve-wracking to say goodbye to family and home, campers are eager to say hello to new experiences and environments.  

“I’m looking forward to swimming and making new friends! Last time I went to camp, I went to the deep pool. I’m excited to do that again,” shared Journee, a returning camper at Hidden Valley. 

Making New Friends

At all Fresh Air camps, one thing is inevitable: making new friendships! Campers from across New York City have the chance to build new relationships, whether through swimming in the lake together or being partners on the high ropes course. Year after year, we love seeing children embrace their new and old camp friends! 

“I made a lot of friends,” shared Alfred, a camper at Hayden-Marks. “The people here are really nice, so it’s easy to make friends!” 

Finding New Passions

There’s always something new to try with The Fresh Air Fund. For some campers, kayaking across the lake is a new challenge. Others hold a bow and arrow for the first time. These activities grow into new passions and hobbies outside of camp. 

“This summer, I learned how to use a camera,” said Jayden, a returning camper from Hayden-Marks. “We took a photography class and they let each student use a camera and become familiar with it.” 

Special Moments

While day-to-day activities are always exciting, campers also look forward to special events. Camp ABC celebrates the summer with a carnival during each session. From face painting to musical chairs to cotton candy, campers at ABC always have a blast during carnival. 

Camp Mariah had the unique opportunity to tie-dye shirts and tote bags with our partners at Theory. Using a variety of colorful dyes and rubber bands, campers let their creativity shine through their designs. The day also included a lesson on the fashion industry and crocheting! 

There have been so many wonderful memories from this summer that we can’t fit them all into one blog — check back in at the end of the summer to learn about the fun from Session 3 and Session 4!