The summer of 2014 was one in which we set out to leave our mark and to ensure others knew that “we were here”. We saw first-hand growth inourselvesandinthepeoplearoundus. Inordertobuildourintentional community it was first and foremost due to the effort of an incredible staff that cared so deeply. We constantly reminded them of the wonderful opportunity they would have to leave a positive imprint on the lives of our campers. We guided them to inspire others with their enthusiasm, their kindness and their thoughtful actions. It was amazing to see just how much they put into this place and how incredibly meaningful it was to see the impact that they made and the transformative experience they helped to provide.
As the summer progressed, we challenged our campers as well to make a positive difference in the way they treat others and to look closely atthemarktheyareleavingatcampandintheworld. Justasweasked our staff to share with us how they are leaving their mark, we invite our campers to do the same. How have you left your mark
at Camp Walden? How are you making your mark in the world? How has Camp Walden left its mark on you? Please send all responses to fun@campwalden- ny.com – we would love to hear how you’re making a difference!
With lots of love from Mark and me,
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In the Words of our Staff…
Camp Walden has taught me to always be even, kind and fair to my campers and my co-staff while challenging me to continually raise the bar on how I take care of kids. I am grateful for these experiences and now spend my time and energy passing them along to others. I have taught my campers that there are always times for fun but also times to be serious and responsible when the situation calls for it. I try to set an example for other staff by being flexible and having a great time with kids from all different age groups. – Justin Short
My experience at Camp Walden has completely changed my entire perspective on life. I’m more open to different things and meeting people who are different from me. I also feel like I give a part of myself to Camp Walden through the art I teach kids as a ceramics counselor. Some kids have never used a pottery wheel or have never been in a ceramics class, and I’m able to open up their minds and introduce them to new experiences. – Henny Harmon
The unconditional love that engulfs you when you step within the confines of Camp Walden is difficult to summarize in words. Lauren Bernstein has created a culture where you are allowed to truly be yourself without holding back. When you’re given this gift, it allows you to blossom as a person and amazing things come out of it. Some might say that I’ve left my mark on Camp Walden, but that mark doesn’t come close to how significant Camp Walden has been in teaching me to love every person the way they are. Thank you Camp Walden. – Dan Whelan