Today, we’re talking about one of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta’s most treasured experiences–the overnight camp experience at Camp High Harbour. Perhaps one of the main reasons why High Harbour is so successful and popular with families across metro Atlanta has to do with the young leaders who go through the leadership program as camp counselors. Today we have the pleasure of having a conversation with some of the program directors from Camp High Harbour at Lake Burton to hear about their experience and some of the plans for this summer.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [3:11] Kappi and Caitlin describe what their roles will be at this year's summer camp

• [6:15] A typical day at camp, highlighting activities and games. Worship, devotions and singing are a part of the camp, which helps kids grow in their faith

• [9:21] Staff training is extensive before camp

• [12:17] Kappi and Caitlin share highlights of the activities and themes that are planned for this summer, and they talk about how new kids who have never been to camp are welcomed and made to feel comfortable

• [17:57] Kappi and Caitlin share memorable experiences and the personal activities they loved while at camp

• [23:52] Discussion of keeping parents informed about what their child is doing

• [27:54] Kappi and Caitlin talk about how they became connected to the Y

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• [6:01] A typical day at camp starts early in the morning and provides engaging activities all day. Staff are the backbone of running these activities smoothly and ensuring that the campers are safe and having fun

• [9:21] Staff training is extensive before camp begins. Each staff member must complete the leadership program to be considered for the counselor position. Once staff training begins, the focus is to build leadership skills, relationships, and set goals for the campers, staff, and program as a whole

• [12:22] The activities offered at camp are theme-related. The Olympics is one of the themes this summer. No week is the same. This gives campers unique and memorable experiences, whether it’s their first summer as a camper or their fifth summer attending camp

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Camp High Harbor

BIOGRAPHIES:

Kappi is a rising sophomore at Wake Forest University majoring in mathematics with minors in chemistry and neuroscience on the pre-med track. This is her 14th summer at Camp High Harbour at Lake Burton, and she will be serving as the Advanced Leadership Camper (ALC) Program Director.

Caitlin Foster is a sophomore at the University of Georgia. At UGA, she is studying Human Development and Family Sciences on the Pre-PA track. This will be her 10th summer at Camp High Harbour, and she will be one of the LIT Program Directors.

Today’s Pathway to the (Y) is sure to be a splash! We are joined by Carolyn and Chris, two energetic Y Members who call themselves the Mermaids. Carolyn and Chris share how they became connected to the Y and how the Y is now a part of their everyday lives. Tune in for this (mer)tail of connection, friendship, and wellness.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:00] Carolyn’s daughter signed her up for swim classes at the Y to encourage her to create connections and to keep her body moving.

• [2:15] Chris discovered the Y through her granddaughter, who was enrolled in swimming lessons at the Y. Chris was intrigued by the energy of the swim instructors and by the quality of the pool.

• [4:00] Allison reflects on the episode about Multi Generational Swim Lessons.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• It’s important to move your body to maintain balance, strength, and independence.

• Having a nice and safe pool to swim and spend time with their friends and family is an inviting environment for beginner and experienced swimmers.

• Connection and laughter can make one’s day.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Atlanta Membership - Website

BIOGRAPHIES:

Chris Higgins has been a member of the Y since 2013. After growing up in Syracuse, New York, she lived overseas in Germany for a year following her marriage to Mike. She and Mike lived in a variety of U.S. cities, including three years in Kwajalein- one of the Marshall Islands in the South Pacific. Chris and her husband have two children, Patrick and Amanda, and they have two grandchildren, Maggie and Connor.

Carolyn Millender has been a Northwest Cobb Family YMCA member since 2009. She is the mother of two daughters who come to the Y four days a week. While she is retired, she is an active volunteer with Must Ministries.

Today, we're thrilled to talk with two remarkable women who have dubbed themselves the Mermaids. From morning swims to community events, the Mermaids demonstrate how engagement, community, and belonging shape lifelong health and wellness. Get ready to laugh, enjoy, and discover how this group of swimmers makes every splash count, proving that age is just a number when you’re young at heart.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:08] Introduction of guests and description of The Mermaids

• [3:22] Chris describes what the Mermaids are to her

• [5:17] Carolyn shares how she was introduced to the Mermaids and refers to her friendships. Chris describes the activities they do at the Y

• [8:40] How the group was founded and how men and women participate. Most attendees are retired, and the Y is an excellent place to meet people

• [13:48] Chris and Carolyn describe a typical day at the Y

• [17:09] The camaraderie benefits mental health. The activity strengthens you physically

• [21:59] The guests tell how they volunteered at the Y, the programs and events that are upcoming and advice they would give to anyone who needs to stay active

• [25:30] The importance of welcoming people and learning their names, and the guests give prompts to individual Y employees

• [30:25] Carolyn and Chris talk about how they became aware of the Y

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• [3:23] The Mermaids provide more than water aerobics. It is a time when people can interact with each other and develop new friendships

• [7:29] Swimming is not a prerequisite for attending a Mermaids class. If you can stand in the water, you can participate

• [9:05] The Mermaids have men attend, and they are called Mermen and attend the monthly lunches with the women.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

YMCA Atlanta - Adult Sports

YMCA Atlanta - Youth Sports

BIOGRAPHIES:

Chris Higgins has been a member of the Y since 2013. After growing up in Syracuse, New York, she lived overseas in Germany for a year following her marriage to Mike. She and Mike lived in a variety of U.S. cities, including three years in Kwajalein- one of the Marshall Islands in the South Pacific. Chris and her husband have two children, Patrick and Amanda, and they have two grandchildren, Maggie and Connor.

Carolyn Millender has been a Northwest Cobb Family YMCA member since 2009. She is the mother of two daughters who come to the Y four days a week. While she is retired, she is an active volunteer with Must Ministries.