“Every year I come to camp, I become more comfortable and self-assured, which has led me to became the counselor I am today."

Samira started her journey at South Shore YMCA Nature Adventures Camp when she was twelve years old as a camper in our Coyote group. Samira remembers her time fondly as she played numerous games on the Astro Field, participated in crafts and experiments under the Pavilion, and enjoyed time in nature with friends.

Nature Adventures Camp is a unique place: it is a fully an outdoor recreational camp. In all but the most severe weather, children are outside. Campers explore the habitats of animals living in our woods, ponds, meadows, and along the shore. Most importantly, they have fun using their imaginations, and just being kids in a low-stress, outdoor environment.

When her first summer ended, Samira knew she wanted to come back to Nature Adventures Camp, but she had aged out of our camp program. Our camp leadership understood there were several campers like Samira, who wanted to return but also wanted an opportunity for more responsibility, so we started our Leader-In-Training (LIT) program for Nature Adventures Camp for campers ages 13-15. Campers in this program develop leadership skills while becoming role models for young campers in a fun and engaging atmosphere, while still enjoying all camp has to offer.

"I remember working with Samira during her first summer as an LIT," said Jamie St. Peter, Director of Nature Adventures Camp. "She was quiet at first, but the LIT program gave her a sense of responsibility, in which she really opened up. Samira went on to participate in the LIT program for another summer, then became a Junior Counselor, and is now back this summer as a Counselor. She has been a great role model to our campers and help them step out of their comfort zone as they experience all camp has to offer."

"A wonderful part of returning to camp for so long is seeing the people around you grow,” says Samira, “It makes me realize that I’ve grown at camp too.”