September, 2016
Dear Friends,
During this last month, I have been living at Friends Camp and have searched through the many boxes of old pictures and letters saved from the last 63 years of camp. It is endless fun to see the ways that camp has changed since it existed only in the Meetinghouse, which we now use as our art space. I find deep joy in the wonderful differences between every day, every session, and every year at Friends Camp. These differences arise from the ever-changing mosaic of community members, the inexhaustible creativity of camp staff, the leadership of passionate campers, and the spirit of good that moves through us in our times of reflection and of play.
I believe it is the constant changes, in fact, that gives Friends Camp campers a sense of timelessness and allows campers to live in the moment. In a time of transition for Friends Camp, as we say goodbye to our beloved Nat Shed, it is helpful to remember that camp is constantly changing. It is changing because of the vitality and creativity of our many community members—campers, parents, staff and former staff, alumni, donors, Friends, and neighbors.
I fell in love with the magic of summer camp when I was ten years old, but I didn’t fully appreciate the impact camp could have on young people – and, I believe, on the world—until I found Friends Camp. Over the past six years I have worked as a counselor and, more recently, and assistant director at Friends Camp. I am continually amazed by the warmth and power of our community.
Here are some of my dreams and visions for camp in the next few years:
- Fostering love for the environment and increasing opportunities for outdoor adventures, both large and small.
- Finding ways for more young adults, especially Quakers, to be involved at camp.
- Continuing to adapt our program and daily schedule for our youngest campers.
- Maintaining our commitment to an open door—seeking out and supporting members of our community from many different backgrounds.
- Most importantly, I hope to steward our community as it finds new adventures and holds close our values and love for one another.
I look forward to the many conversations that will help us envision the future of Friends Camp. Please reach out with a phone call, an email, or a coffee date at any time.
In peace,
Anna Hopkins
Director
