09/12/2026
2026 End of Summer Letter ☀🏕
In the few weeks since summer has ended, there has been a quiet around camp that has taken some getting used to. It’s always strange to go from the constant vibration of Summer activity to the slower stretches of the Fall. This gives lots of room for reflection and space to remember the special moments from the Summer. There were a lot of great things this Summer–from campers to staff to activities to trips–that made it unforgettable..
We had many of our classic activities running this Summer: from friendship bracelets to fishing, from canoeing to creating fairy houses, which were all a smash hit with campers. We spent a lot of time enjoying the creek this summer, with Creek Mat and Creek Jump being constantly requested. We had an incredibly “dramatic” Summer as well: improv and drama game activities reigned supreme and drew large crowds of campers every time they ran.
Although we struggled with some weather conditions, we were still able to have a host of special activities like Theme Day, Carnival, Talent Show, and Banquet. During our 4th Session, staff put on a recreation of a music festival. Almost every counselor dressed up as a famous music artist and performed sets at different stages around camp.
Theme Day this year was Avatar: The Last Airbender: a very popular children’s show that has maintained its influence and popularity even 20 years after its debut. The day followed the general plot of the show and revolved around four divided nations themed around different elements (earth, fire, water, air) and the Avatar’s journey to unite them. I was surprised (and happy) to see that staff and campers alike were familiar with the show and excited about the day. For those unfamiliar, staff did a fantastic job bringing campers into the day and getting them into the fun activities that happened.
The last big event of our Summer, Banquet, was inspired by the movie High School Musical. Campers were served a 5 course meal while staff put on a show and musical performance. Staff all learned choreography to the songs and danced and sang their way through Banquet. All of our staff and TICs worked nonstop during 5th Session to make personalized gifts for each camper at camp. Our 14 year olds also worked hard to make gifts for all of staff. At the end of the evening, we gathered together for our final Closing Campfire. It was a bittersweet event as our 14 year olds threw their sticks in the fire and talked about their positive memories and feelings around camp. Many tears were shed and hugs shared between everyone.
I’m reminded every summer of just how special of a place CDW is. Watching campers try new things, grow in their confidence, and discover their true selves is so fulfilling to see. Staff all work hard every summer to make CDW as wonderful as possible and an amazing space to nurture this growth in our campers. I give my most sincere thanks to everyone who played a role in making this Summer as wonderful as it could be. I’m looking forward to the adventures that next Summer has in store!
With sincerity,
Katie Loane-Secrest
