A Motto to Live By:

Camp is for the CAMPERS!

A simple motto with profound meaning and weight, this statement carries over to every action that the Camp Echo staff takes. As we reflect on how actions are supporting campers, we are reminded of former Camp Director Neil Featherstone's words, "What have you done for the kids lately?" Summer 2014 has seen staff, alumni, and community partners step up time and again to support the growth and development of Camp Echo's campers.

Camp Echo's summer staff works tirelessly to impact campers on a daily basis. Summer 2014 has seen over 1500 campers pass through the Main Gate, the most campers yet. Over 1100 of these campers enjoyed the traditional summer camp experience in Main Camp and nearly 400 experience Camp Echo's life-changing teen leadership and adventure programs.

Like no summer before, Camp Echo has worked to share more of our story with community leaders, alumni, families, and donors. During summer 2014, Camp Echo has hosted the McGaw YMCA Board of Directors, Camp Echo alumni, Evanston YOU staff, and Evanston community leaders. The investment of these individuals, to drive 8+ hours to and from Camp Echo, is significant but witnessing camp running at full tilt leaves a lasting impression on every visitor: the Y community will grow stronger with each additional camper at Camp Echo. Camp is for the campers, but the benefit reaches far beyond.

Camp Echo is positioned to be a beacon of youth impact in our communities, throughout the Y Movement, and throughout the country. Continued investment in the campers, the staff, and the facility is essential. This investment depends on the support of all our stakeholders and every gift makes an impact. 

This summer, Camp Echo was thrilled to receive a generous donation of new water skis from a group of Echo alums (and ski enthusiasts), which has inspired current staff to raise funds for improvements to the sailing area. The summer staff has committed to raising $3,000 towards the purchase of a new sailboat. This is a significant and inspiring commitment from our summer leaders that will lead a sustained effort to improve the program equipment for all of camp's life-changing activities.

Spirit - Mind - Body,

Bernard Rocca

Camp Echo Branch Executive Director

BernradR@McGawYMCA.org  

Camp Echo staff and camper alums from the 1970's and 80's pooled their gifts this summer to fund four brand new water skis: two beginner slalom skis and a pair of beginner two skis. These donations spurred the current Echo Staff to pledge $3000 for a new sailboat. One good deed deserves another.