About Us
On the eastern shore of Lake George, at the foot of Buck Mountain, sits one of the most beautiful camps in the world. Known primarily for its world-class summer camp programs, YMCA Camp Chingachgook is now a year-round outdoor center that provides our community with a variety of weekend programs, retreats, special events, school programs, and partnerships all geared toward positively impacting the world through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
MISSION
At YMCA Camp Chingachgook, we believe in the magic of camp. We believe in creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community for all, where we are constantly striving to improve ourselves and others. We focus on building a deep connection with the natural world and those around us. We believe in instilling confidence and independence in everyone who steps foot on camp.
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As a YMCA, we believe in programs to build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. We know that lasting personal and social change comes about when we all work together. That’s why at the Y, strengthening community is our cause. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
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As a result of our work, members of our community will develop personal confidence, social responsibility, an appreciation for the natural world, and an understanding that we are all better together.
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Inclusion Statement: The Y is made up of people of all ages and from every walk of life working side by side to strengthen communities. Together, we work to ensure that staff, members, volunteers, or participants of any gender identification/ expression, income, faith, race, sexual orientation, or cultural background-has the opportunity to live life to the fullest in a safe and supportive environment. We share the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility-everything we do stems from these.
VALUES
Caring
We recognize the good in everyone and are invested in their well-being.
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Honesty
We acknowledge our strengths & weaknesses and communicate with transparency which enables others to believe in us.
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Respect
We show honor and consideration for ourselves and others through our words and actions.
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Responsibility
We are accountable for our individual actions and are aware of the impact we have on each other and the environment.
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Inclusion
We appreciate and welcome the uniqueness of each individual and embrace the diversity in our community.
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Stewardship
We are all caretakers of our community, entrusted with the preservation of our history and the sustainability of our resources.
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Personal Growth
We challenge ourselves and each other to encourage positive development and foster an atmosphere of learning.
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Adventure
We celebrate the joy of exploration and the discovery of awe-inspiring moments.
"I was fortunate enough to attend YMCA camp Chingachgook, starting as a camper in 1991, and returning for 14 consecutive summers - 7 as a camper and 7 as staff - all full of magical moments. The skills and relationships that I developed as a result of being part of Camp have stayed with me my entire life. I have made lifelong friendships, and those friends are now family. I’m grateful my son has now started as a camper and will have similar experiences. I’m also proud to serve on the YMCA camp Chingachgook alumni committee to keep alumni engaged in all that camp has to offer year-round!"