11/10/2026
Dear Camp Families,
It is with a mixture of gratitude, pride, and a touch of nostalgia that I write to share some personal news: after 47 years in youth development, I have decided to retire.
For nearly five decades, I have had the privilege of working with young people and their families through summer day camps, overnight camps, and a variety of youth development programs. Most of those years were spent in leadership roles, helping create environments where children could learn, grow, build confidence, form friendships, and discover their potential.
When I reflect on my career, I do not think first about programs, schedules, or facilities. I think about the thousands of campers who laughed around campfires, learned new skills, overcame challenges, and returned home with stories and memories that would last a lifetime. I think about the dedicated staff members who shared a passion for helping young people succeed. Most of all, I think about the families who placed their trust in me and in the camps I had the honor to lead.
It has been a remarkable privilege to watch generations grow up. Many former campers have returned as counselors, staff members, and even parents who later entrusted their own children to our programs. Seeing those connections continue across years and generations has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional life.
Youth development is much more than a profession; it is a calling. Every day brought opportunities to make a positive difference in a young person's life, and I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have spent my career doing work that mattered so deeply.
As I begin this new chapter, I do so with a heart full of appreciation. Thank you for the confidence, support, friendship, and partnership you have shown throughout the years. The memories we created together and the relationships built along the way will remain among my most treasured gifts.
While I am retiring from my professional role, I will always carry the lessons, stories, and friendships that camp life has given me. I leave knowing that the future of youth development remains bright because of the caring families, dedicated professionals, and amazing young people who continue to make camp such a transformative experience.
Thank you for allowing me to be part of your family's journey. It has been the honor of a lifetime.
With sincere gratitude and best wishes,
Cherie Godin Hammond
