2022 Alumnae Sparks
Hello Greystone Alumnae!
We are so very thankful for last summer!
All sessions were full, and while COVID rules were still a part of our planning, the campers and counselors hardly noticed a difference. We ate in cabin groups (same as 2021, but this time in the Dining Hall). We limited the size of certain classes (classes that met inside closed rooms or in small spaces) and experimented with a new class schedule to accommodate the various changes.
We expanded our Clubs (activities that meet on an optional basis at the end of the day, allowing campers to have more free time or to try completely different activities without much time commitment). We still did most of our EP’s and Assemblies outside on the Pagent Court but also returned to the Pavillion for special events. We enjoyed our traditional Council Fire location with fond memories of last year’s Council Fires in the meadow. Banquet held in the Dining Hall proved to be the perfect ending to the camp experience.
The cumulative effect of the summer was spectacular. More families than ever chose to Early Bird for 2023…good news! Camp is meeting the needs of the campers in a very important and deeply appreciated way. And surveys reinforced our opinion that each area of camp is still providing meaningful growth in the four-fold way.
- Socially: Face-to-face relationships and conversations are more important than ever, and camp enhances those friendships in a way that is very unique and deeply appreciated.
- Mentally: The Great Day Attitude has never been needed more, and this community celebrates “seeing the good” in people and circumstances.
- Physically: Playing is good for your soul. Campers and counselors alike enjoyed simple games and activities more than ever. Great food, lots of outside activities, great sleep…add them together, and you get physical growth the way God intends.
- Spiritually: The most important aspect of the camp experience is stronger than ever. The camp ministers were fantastic. Their presence was a blessing (campers and counselors alike enjoyed hanging out and getting to know the families). The relationship between minister and camper led to their messages being received enthusiastically rather than skeptically (check out their devotions and sermons on our website). Cabin devotions, Vespers, and Council Fire all had a strong impact. Spiritual Growth happens at camp in a way that is unique in our country these days.
We also want to thank YOU for participating in camp life in such a meaningful way. Helping with Opening or Closing Day (several of you helped us, and it made a huge difference), “adopting” counselors (praying for and sending notes or care packages to specific counselors), mentoring the Honor Council (we now have a well-structured leadership program, and your voices were one of the best improvements this year), and contributing to The Great Day Fund (which is now approaching the $1,000,000 mark!). Your impact is growing and making a difference in the lives of these girls. If you’re looking to get involved, make sure to check out some of our ideas, as we’d love your support!
We love you and look forward to seeing you again at our next Great Day Reunion Weekend (October 2023). Thank you for your love and support of Greystone. Enjoy reading the Sparks!
With love, Jimboy
