The 65th Anniversary Celebration is over, and what a weekend it was!
We
hosted 75 participants to the weekend, plus a full contingent of the
staff. Everyone was able to shoot, climb, boat, swim, and eat to their
hearts' content. For many of the participants it was their first visit
to Camp Whitsett in many years -- and for some their first visit ever!
Before
the weekend even began the FOCW was hard at work. $4000 was donated to
completely remodel the shower and laundry facilities on Staff Hill. The
staff love their new amenities, and it will make the camp that much
more attractive and enjoyable for other groups throughout the year. The
FOCW also gave money to the camp's program with money donated
specifically for the Handicraft, Nature, and Shooting Sports programs.
The
weekend helped raise nearly $10,000 -- all of which is dedicated to the
restoration and improvement of the Ida Lake Waterfront area. The FOCW
made a two-year commitment to raise money for this, including new
fencing, new boat and PFD racks, installation of shade over the dock
and the teaching areas, and a brand new lifeguard tower! This is in
addition to the money already given to put industrial-strength carpet
on the docks. All these improvements help create a safe, fun, and
impressive visit to one of the most popular places in Camp Whitsett.
Your
donations included the time you dedicated to attend, your willingness
to help the visitors, the staff, and each other, and your financial
donations. We raised over $5600 at the memorabilia auction, a new
record! And in addition to the registration fee, we had 16 people
register as Benefactors and 6 as Donors, each pledging an amount above
and beyond their registration in order to support the mission of the
FOCW and of Camp Whitsett. Benefactors and Donors will receive limited
edition "Challenge Coins" featuring Sentinel Peak on the front and the
2011 CW logo on the back.
Please
continue to help us support Camp Whitsett and the thousands of Scouts,
Scouters, Staff, and other visitors who attend each year. We have set a
goal of raising at least $30,000 by December 2012 so that the Ida Lake
Waterfront improvements can be built the following Spring before the
Summer program begins. We are still seeking individuals, families, and
businesses to pledge to be Benefactors and Donors. Challenge Coins will
be given as a thank you until the limited supply is exhausted. We are
also seeking donations of your time, talents, and treasure. Please
donate directly at our webpage at http://whitsett.org/Contribute.htm, or by emailing us and offering your personal or professional services.
Again,
thank you for your support of the Friends of Camp Whitsett. You make it
possible to provide facilities and services to the thousands of
visitors who are affected by the mission of the camp.
