Camp Kiwanis, a year-round residence camp serving youth through Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA), has been honored with the Eleanor P. Eells Award for Program Excellence by the American Camp Association (ACA). The award specifically recognizes Camp K’s Leaders in Nature’s Kingdom (LINK) program for creatively addressing societal needs and demonstrating the positive impact of the camp experience on individuals and society.
“The LINK teen leadership program is truly the heart and soul of Camp Kiwanis,” said Camp Kiwanis Director Carly Robinson. “Having our club kids see themselves in our staff is so very important – and my true love of this career. It is such a great honor to have the LINK program regionally and nationally recognized. Receiving the Eleanor P. Eells Award for Program Excellence has further motivated me to continue to improve the depth and breadth of what we can accomplish and share what we do to inspire others. While there may be no wi-fi in the woods, we definitely make a deeper connection here.”
The LINK program (targeting campers aged 13-15) is a teen leadership initiative nurturing the camp’s best staff leaders. LINK teens begin their journey as Leaders in Training (L.I.T.) to gain valuable experience, potentially leading to employment the following summer. In addition to the LINK program, Camp Kiwanis offers distinct programs tailored to different age groups. The Ultimate Journey (designed for campers aged 9-12) provides environmental education, outdoor recreation and life skills disguised as fun. Egwani Teens Adventures (catering to campers aged 13-15) introduces challenging watersports, mountain biking and backpacking experiences.
Camp Kiwanis provides over 600 young people annually with a positive, challenging outdoor experience. The camp fosters self-reliance and teamwork, allowing campers to master new skills and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
Led by a dedicated and experienced staff with backgrounds in experiential education, the camp creates lifelong memories in a nurturing environment. Club kids from Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures, including nature programs, swimming, tubing, kayaking, archery, fishing, and more.
For many Boys & Girls Club members, Camp Kiwanis represents their first exposure to a wilderness setting. New experiences such as kayaking and outdoor living provide valuable life lessons and opportunities for personal growth.
The camp’s affordable participation cost, made possible by major sponsor Kiwanis Club of Atlanta, ensures that any club member aged 9 to 15 can apply for this enriching experience.
For more information on Camp Kiwanis and its programs, visit www.bgcma.org/local-clubs/campkiwanis.
Categories:BGCMA News, Camp Kiwanis, Clubs