U.S. camp directors met Nov. 16 and 17 for the eighth annual United Youth Camps camp team conference. Directors gathered to report on the regional camps and discuss future plans. Part of the agenda included sharing new innovations to help our youth accomplish the goals of the Church.

The camp directors enjoyed the camaraderie and benefited from the group discussions, sharing lessons learned. This year, the Church sponsored seven summer and one winter program in the United States. (Winter Camp will run Dec. 27 to Jan. 1).

David Myers, liaison with the preteen regional programs, reported that 485 preteens attended at nine camps in 2006. He stated that these programs help prepare young people for an even greater experience at United Youth Camps.

New Camps

In 2007, two camps will be held in different facilities: The Northwest camp will probably be located near Portland, Oregon (details have not yet been confirmed), and the camp in the Southeast will also be moving. Details will be announced later.

Additionally, the Teton Challenger Camp in Wyoming will not be held in 2007, but plans are for an enhanced program in 2008.

2007 Camp Dates

The planned dates for 2007 are:

• Pinecrest, Missouri: June 10-17.

• Hye Sierra, California: July 1-8.

• Carter, Texas: July 29-Aug. 5.

• Heritage, Pennsylvania: Aug. 12-19.

The camps in the Northwest and Southeast will be announced later.

Parents' Comments

Each year, surveys are sent to parents of campers requesting feedback about their children's camp experiences. When asked "Do you feel the overall effect of our camp staff was good for your child(ren)?" the response was 99 percent "Yes." Here are a few comments from the parents:

"It's almost like they are on fire after camp. It's up to us to keep the flames burning" (Camp Davidson).

"My kids enjoyed the Bible studies and group discussions. It supports the values we have been establishing for them at home" (Camp Carter).

"We have two children who have gone through the camp experience every summer since 1995. They are both baptized, responsible young adults now serving as staff. This is testimony to the effectiveness of camp when coupled with godly example and instruction at home and each Sabbath at church" (Camp Pinecrest).

Camp Team

Camp team members include camp directors Gary Black, James Capo, Dave Dobson, David Holladay, Paul Luecke, Doug Johnson, Greg Sargent and Ken Treybig; Larry Greider, overall coordinator; David Myers, preteen camp liaison; and Steve Nutzman, American Camp Association liaison.

The camp team thanks all the volunteers (over 400) who give of their time and talent to help prepare our youth for the exciting future that "the Zone" pictures. UN