This morning I got up bright and early and drove about 90 mins from the Dells to Camp Helen Brachman. Its a not for profit camp serving underprivileged youth. I was greetign my charming campers calling me “sir” and asking how they could help me. A nice tour and wow, what a great place and a great staff!
Then 2 and a half hours to Camp Marimeta. Its a girls camp in Eagle River WI and we have Counselors and Support Staff there on J-1 Visas.
Jacqui the director is one of my faves in camping. Nothing is too much trouble and she treats all out staff there so well! Everyone was so happy and having a great experience. I left Marimeta for a short 20 minute drive to Camp Menominee. This is an all boys camp that although has different owners to Marimeta, they work together to help each other and do joint programming.
Jason the owner gave me a great tour and we spoke about the trials and tribulations of camp and business ownership. I’m hoping to place more folk there next year.
My final visit was to Chippewa Ranch Camp. It’s owned by Cliff Lissner. Together with is director Sari they do a great job. Cliff is a character and is never still, always doing something (rearranging the dining room tables when I arrived). Again our participants were happy and cared for. We of course have returners (a sign of a well run camp in my mind is people wanting to return!) and new placements.
I’ve just driven another 30 mins to my hotel in Minocqua for the night (oh theres a great little brewing company here too….I couldn’t resist)
On tomorrows agenda is Red Pine, Timberlane, Kagawa, Camp Jorn YMCA. But for now, e mail and sleep.
Matt