John Quinlivan, Executive Director
What a great summer we had this year! The days were warm and the air was filled with the sound of campers having the time of their lives. For the first time in a few years we were filled to capacity and had waiting lists for many of the sessions. Remember to register early for next summer to guarantee your spot.
Over the past year I have a many opportunities to talk to alumni about their experiences at CSM. It amazes me how many parents and grandparents of our current campers came to camp themselves. The first thing that most of them talk about is how much the physical aspects of camp have changed. From the perils of having to cross East Lake Rd before the Abraham Bridge was built, to eating in the Big House before Peggy’s, to going to Mass in the Chapel. They marvel at the number of new cabins, the fact that we have “real” bathrooms and showers, and, of course, the Wegman House. Sooner or later though, the conversation turns to what Camp has meant to the personally. They talk about how Camp helped them become the person they are today and how it is now helping their child or grandchildren grow. For many, the act of going to camp, and CSM in particular, is a vital part of one’s life experience. It helps to develop spiritually, physically and emotionally while promoting one’s acceptance of self and others through the social, spiritual, recreational and educational aspects of camp life.
During this past year the Board of Directors and CSM Staff have engaged in a strategic planning process which has allowed us to reexamine our mission, our values, and our vision of CSM in the future. For me, the most important objectives to come out of this process are our identification of three important issues. 1) A need to have participants in our programs better reflect our community as a whole; 2) a need to better utilize our facility in the “off season” so that more might enjoy the CSM Experience; and 3) a closer look at the satisfaction of our greatest asset, our staff. Throughout this process our motto has been “to do more of what we do best, for more people”.
As we begin to plan for next year I ask for your continued support of Camp and its endeavors. We promise to be there for “campers of the past, present and future”. Helping you mold young people into the citizens and leaders of tomorrow.
-John
