CALGARY, ALTA.— YMCA Calgary is excited to announce a first-of-its-kind ‘return to outdoor camp’ experience for alumni and families from across the province this fall. Homecoming will invite campers at every age and stage to enjoy a day of nostalgia at Camp Chief Hector on September 21, 2024. This special event will offer opportunities to reconnect with nature, reminisce about past camp experiences, participate in a day filled with classic camp activities, and learn about the future of the camp.
At Camp Chief Hector, unplugged play is central to the camp experience. In an increasingly digital world, the camp offers a refuge where young people can disconnect from technology, engage in meaningful face-to-face interactions, and build confidence and take healthy risks in a supportive environment.
“Camp Chief Hector has been a cornerstone of our community since 1930, providing countless youth and families with opportunities to grow, connect, and build lasting memories. Homecoming is a chance for everyone to experience the magic of camp, whether they’re revisiting fond memories or discovering camp for the first time,” says Shannon Doram, President & CEO, YMCA Calgary.
YMCA Calgary defines alumni as anyone who has been inspired by camp – whether as a camper, volunteer or staff member. These alumni, as well as families who wish to learn more about Camp Chief Hector and the lifelong impact it can have on youth, will have the opportunity to rediscover and share the magic of camp with their loved ones at Homecoming. Over the past year, YMCA Calgary has made significant upgrades to Camp Chief Hector, including new multi-season accommodations, a state-of-the-art high ropes and low ropes challenge course, and modern universal wash houses.
“We are committed to preserving the legacy of Camp Chief Hector while also ensuring it meets the needs of future campers,” says Jennifer Walker, Vice President of Philanthropy at YMCA Calgary. “These recent improvements are just the beginning and Homecoming is the perfect opportunity for our alumni and supporters to relive memories, share camp with loved ones, and explore the recent renovations.”
For $40 a ticket (free for children nine and under), Homecoming is open to all ages, with activities for those six and older. Alumni unable to attend can join the Camp Chief Hector Alumni Network, a free membership that will keep them connected with camp developments, events, and meetups.
Registration for Homecoming is now open until September 13, 2024. To sign up or learn more, visit Homecoming registration here. To sign up for the Alumni Network, visit www.ymcacalgary.org/cchalumni.
ABOUT YMCA CALGARY
Since 1902, YMCA Calgary has been committed to serving our community. From building social connections, increasing physical activity, and improving health outcomes, we have been an organization Calgarians can count on. As a longstanding partner of the City of Calgary, YMCA Calgary operates six city-owned health and wellness facilities, six licensed child development centres, two outdoor camp sites and dozens of community program sites across the city. Our breadth of programs play an important role within the fabric of our city, leading to a healthier, more vibrant community.
For more information and to arrange an interview, media can contact:
Erica Morgan
WILD Public Relations
T: 403-478-1357
E: emorgan@wildpr.ca