Camper Goals

Love is the greatest Strength of all.

Jay Williams, a counselor at Falling Creek shared his definition of strength in relation to love. Jay spoke about how everyone faces struggles in their lives, and these struggles require strength to conquer. He then went on to emphasize that because we are unaware of the struggles people may be facing, it is always better to approach things with love.

“Love your friend, love your neighbor, love your parents.” Jay then went on to give examples of love, detailing that some of the boys even cried on Sunday because they love their parents and didn’t want them to leave. That is okay, love is a sign of strength.

It is important to do everything with love in your hearts.

Camper Goals

We asked campers to share what their goals for the session may be, whether it be personal, part of our progressions, or simply trying out a new activity.

Army R. in cabin 11 is from Alexandria Virginia. His goal for the session is to progress in the F.A.R.M activity. In order to accomplish this, he will need to plant a seed using proper technique, participate in testing pH levels in the soil, assist with chicken care, demonstrate proper watering techniques as well as identify something repurposed at camp.

Landon K. in cabin 11 is from Charlotte NC. His goal is to score a 50 in riflery this session. He is well on his way as he has already scored a 48.

CJay M. in cabin 30 from Pinecrest Florida has many goals this session. He would like to work on his progression. CJay plans to progress to the first level (Scout) in archery, performing arts as well as horseback riding. He is already close to becoming a Scout in Performing Arts, only needing to demonstrate respect and care for props and costumes, as well as a basic understanding of theater terminology.

Hudson G. in cabin 14 is from Charlotte NC. His goal is to become a Scout in horseback riding. He will learn how to control the horse at a walk, lead a horse, adjust his own stirrups, as well as groom a horse properly.

James A. in cabin 39 is from Birmingham Alabama and his goal for the session is to join and participate in the flag football tournament.

Kelly K. from cabin 26 is from Mount Pleasant, South Carolina and he would like to progress in Basketball this session.

Eliott W. in cabin 40 is from Charleston SC. His goal for this season is to learn how to fly fish and possibly catch a fish. He would like to progress in fishing and earn the next level.

Hux T. in cabin 39 is from Watersound Florida, his goal is to progress in mountain biking this session.

All the boys are ready to have fun and learn new things this summer session. We are excited to witness and facilitate their growth in our community.

Notes about Homesickness:

By now, you might be getting some letters home that detail new friends and cabinmates. While we know that many letters will contain fun stories about new activities, we also know that many will share feelings of missing home or missing being where they feel comfortable.

Now that the boys have been here for a couple of days and camp is still new to them, this can be a time when homesickness could begin to show in some of them. Homesickness is completely normal and we’re prepared to work with each boy, as no situation is the same.

If you do get a homesick letter in the mail over these next few days, don’t panic. These feelings are common for all campers at some point throughout the session. Boys who showed feelings of homesickness early on have now become more comfortable, yet the letter home is usually a snapshot from the first 24-48 hours. Encouragement from all of us to be active, participating in their regular 6 activities and signing up for special opportunities, is a huge positive movement forward in getting adjusted to camp. New friendships are also a key to success.

Please be assured that if your son shows any continuing signs of homesickness, we will be in touch with you. A good rule of thumb typically is that no news from us is good news, and the homesickness usually passes quickly.

The boys are learning to be independent and resilient, and you are giving them a great opportunity to do that by allowing them to be at camp.