Camping is undeniably one of the most enriching experiences a child can have. It serves as a profound educational journey, instilling in boys and girls a deep appreciation for the great outdoors while fostering essential life skills. Campers learn the value of self-sufficiency and the importance of collaboration through communal living, independence-building activities, and interactions with peers from diverse backgrounds.
At Grant Walker, we prioritize this aspect of learning by creating an environment where campers can thrive independently for four days. To facilitate this growth, we kindly request that parents refrain from calling or visiting campers unless in an emergency and campers leave behind their electronic devices. This approach ensures that every camper has the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the camp experience, fostering independence and resilience within a supportive environment. By removing distractions and providing a structured yet nurturing atmosphere, campers can truly embrace all camp offers, from building new skills to forming meaningful connections with peers and mentors. The emphasis on self-sufficiency and personal growth lays a strong foundation for lifelong learning and development, empowering campers to navigate challenges with confidence and adaptability.
Here’s a summary of the key points regarding the camp experience at Camp Grant Walker!
- Guidance and Support: Dedicated 4-H Agents, volunteer leaders, and teen counselors from each parish attend camp and stay in the cabins with the campers.
- Duration and Schedule: The camp week lasts four days, starting on Monday afternoon and ending on Thursday morning after breakfast. Campers arrive Monday afternoon, and the first meal served is supper that evening. We provide all meals and snacks each day. Due to some campers having severe allergies, we discourage snacks from being sent to camp.
- Focus on Self-Sufficiency: Campers are encouraged to develop self-sufficiency by not bringing cell phones to camp and not receiving calls or visits from parents unless it’s an emergency. Additionally, parents are asked not to send food or snacks, as three meals and snacks are provided each day.
- Camp Activities: On Monday evening, campers will choose an educational track to participate in during the morning and engage in recreational activities each afternoon, such as swimming, canoeing/kayaking, archery, sports, and line dancing. Evening programs include talent shows and our evening Vespers program.
- Character Development: Campers pledge to practice the six pillars of our character education program, CHARACTER COUNTS! This program emphasizes Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship.
- Forms and Health Information: Parents must complete the registration process as directed by their local 4-H Agent, a Health Form, and a Hold Harmless Agreement annually. The health form includes information on medications, allergies, and any special restrictions for the child.
- Insurance and Emergency Procedures: Campers are insured against accidents while at camp, with a coverage limit of $3,000. In case of illness or injury, parents will be notified. If unreachable, the child will be taken to the closest hospital to us, if necessary, which is Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, LA.
- Camp Store: Our camp store is available to purchase camp merchandise and snacks. Upon camp registration, all camp store money must be paid upfront to your parish 4-H Agent. We will not accept money from campers onsite.
- Outdoor Skills Track: Campers interested in participating in the Outdoor Skills Track will need to have permission from their parents before coming to camp. Permission can be granted on your parish camp registration form.
These measures ensure campers have a safe, enriching, and enjoyable experience at Camp Grant Walker while fostering independence, character development, and a sense of responsibility.
