By Blox Content Management
To the editor: This week, summer camps are reopening across Berkshire Family YMCA’s service area in Berkshire County and southern Vermont.
These camps will be filled with songs, capture-the-flag games, pool splashes and the making of friendship bracelets. However, beyond the fun activities lies a greater purpose: the development of young people and the emergence of the leaders who guide them. Years of experience, months of preparation and strong partnerships have led us to this moment.
At BFYMCA camps, we view camp not just as a way to stay busy but as a place for personal growth. It’s where children learn values such as honesty, caring, respect and responsibility. Camp provides a rare, screen-free environment where face-to-face connections foster empathy, confidence and lifelong friendships.
Research backs up these benefits. The American Camp Association reports that campers develop confidence, social skills and leadership abilities. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine affirm that programs like summer camp promote youth development, especially when strong adult-youth relationships and a sense of belonging are present. YMCA camps provide exactly that.
We have witnessed shy campers transform into team captains, anxious swimmers conquer the deep end and returning youth evolve into counselors-in-training. Camp isn’t just transformative for children; it also develops the counselors. Each summer, thousands of teens and college students take on leadership roles that require emotional intelligence, adaptability and responsibility. Many YMCA leaders began as camp counselors, learning to lead with empathy and purpose.
The benefits of camp extend to entire communities. Kids return to school more confident and resilient. Young adults gain real-world skills and a sense of purpose. Parents enjoy peace of mind knowing their children are engaged in positive activities guided by caring adults and mentors. Schools benefit from knowing their students are thriving, even when school is not in session.
YMCA camps across Massachusetts serve thousands of families — regardless of income — thanks to financial assistance and partnerships with schools. Camp is more than just summer fun; it represents leadership in action and is one of the best investments we can make in our children — and in our future.
Christian Bianchi, Pittsfield
The writer is the CEO and executive director of the Berkshire Family YMCA, which operates Camp Sumner in Pittsfield, Abenaki in North Adams and two camps in southern Vermont.