Youth dive into summer fun

Thursday, July 24, 2003

Where can kids go now days if they are in the mood to swim, shoot, learn about horses and linedance? This week it is the McGennis Youth Camp. For 13 years, area 4-Hers and other local youth have flocked to the McGennis Youth Center, near Metz, to enjoy three days of outdoor activity. This year, the weather has been surprisingly cool and pleasant. In years past, temperatures have been in the triple digits. One of the primary goals of the McGennis Youth Camp is to keep the children active throughout the event. "We try to plan a lot of stuff for the kids to do," said Camp director Bill Pritchett. "It's just a great time." Another issue that is important to Pritchett is entertaining all the campers, including those who have been to the camp before. "We try each year to do something different," said Pritchett. While some things stay the same, like swimming and sports, seminars and games are mixed up to provide a fresh experience for those who participate in the camp every year. There are 12 counselors to oversee 20 boy and nine girls, ages 8 to 12, who stay in the camp's four cabins. All of the counselors are volunteers. According to Pritchett, what sets these counselors apart is their enthusiasm for the program and their experience. Pritchett said he believes that it's a positive thing for the youth to have volunteers in the program who believe in the benefits of camp. "They have done a real good job," said Pritchett. What makes this camp possible is support from the community, said Pritchett. Without donations of food and supplies from area businesses the price for the kids would be a lot higher. Organization of the camp eventis a combined effort of the University of Missouri Extension office, area 4-H and juvenile services. Pritchett said that to supply another important aspect of the camp experience, volunteers make sure that everyone always has something to take home with them from camp, including crafts, shirts and pictures. "It's a great camp and we all enjoy doing it," said Pritchett.

To Read More
Subscribe Sign In
Continue reading with a subscription
Subscription options