The Value of Summer Camp

YGBW Summer Camps – More Than Just Something to do this Summer

Choosing a summer camp is a big decision for any parent or caregiver. It's not just about filling time—it's about finding a place where your child will thrive and build memories that last a lifetime. At YGBW, we understand this deeply – and we center our camps around youth development.

To find our what makes YGBW camps stand out, we chatted with Senior Association Director of Summer Camp and Youth Programs, Bridgette Barbera-Byrne.

How Do I Choose the Right Camp for My Child?

There are three things that all parents are looking for in a summer camp – safety, fun and affordability.

At YGBW, we put ourselves in the shoes of parents. Safety is our top priority. All of our camps feature

• Age-appropriate staff-to-camper ratios

• Background checks for all staff

• Rigorous staff training programs (40+ hours before the summer even begins!)

After safety, it’s about the experience. Where can your child build friendships, make lasting memories and try something new? YGBW is that place.

And finally, affordability. We believe every child deserves the chance to experience camp, regardless of financial circumstances. That’s why we never turn anyone away due to inability to pay. We offer a variety of financial assistance programs to make camp accessible for all.

Is Camp Really Worth the Money?

In a word? Absolutely.

Camp is where kids get to just be kids. At YGBW, they’ll make new friends each week, explore diverse activities and enjoy the freedom to be themselves in a structured, supportive environment.

And our camps provide more than just summer fun. We are mission-based and committed to raising future leaders – guided by the Y’s four core values: honesty, respect, responsibility and caring. Our camp team spends 351 days a year planning and refining our curriculum to ensure that each summer is fresh, exciting and enriching.

Expect everything from STEM to sports, nature adventures, creative arts and plenty of swim time.

Why Do Parents Send Their Kids to Camp?

Every family has different reasons. Some parents need a safe, reliable place for their child while they work. Others are looking for opportunities to build independence, get kids off screens and encourage socialization and physical activity.

Whatever your reason, our camp staff is ready. They're not just counselors, they are passionate youth development professionals who take their work seriously – while having tons of fun doing it.

What’s the Best Age for Camp?

There’s no perfect age – because we’ve got something for everyone! Whether your child is just starting school or entering their teen years, we offer age-appropriate programs packed with fun and learning.

For teens, our Counselor-in-Training and Leader-in-Training camps help 14-15-year-olds develop leadership and job-readiness skills, while our Teen Trek camp offers local adventures across Southeastern Pennsylvania for ages 12-15.

What Does a Typical Day at Camp Look Like?

While each of our 8 camp locations offers its own unique vibe, one thing is guaranteed: your camper will come home tried, sweaty – and smiling.

A sample day includes:

• Arts & Crafts

• Swimming

• Sports and large group games

• STEM experiments

• Nature exploration

PLUS – We rotate weekly activities to keep camp fresh and exciting:

• In-house guests or special events

• Surprise themes

• Kona Ice

• Dress-up days

We work hard to keep campers engaged and eager for what tomorrow brings.

What Makes YGBW Summer Camps So Special?

We are the Y. We’ve been a trusted part of communities around the world since 1844. That history matters.

• Our top priority is safety. Several of our camps are DHS-licensed and ACA-accredited, with the rest on track for accreditation by the end of 2025.

• We invest in our staff, with extensive training and a commitment to professional development.

• We spend 351 days per year planning so that every summer brings something new, fun and meaningful to our campers.

And most importantly, we create a place where kids can be themselves to learn, grow and have a blast.

What’s your Favorite?

• Favorite Camp Activity: Camp songs! They’ll be stuck in your head – in the best way.

• Most Anticipated Theme: Jurassic Jungle is a standout this year, though there might be a surprise Color Wars twist in store!

• Best Camp Tradition: Our “Day of Camps” staff kickoff event – part training, part team-building and 100% fun.

• Favorite Core Value: Respect. It is the foundation of a strong, inclusive camp community.

Ready to Make This the Best Summer Ever?

We’d love to welcome your family to one of our eight YGBW camp locations. When your child looks back and says, "Thanks for sending me to camp - it taught me so much," you’ll know it was all worth it.

Let’s make memories together. Register today.