End of Season Updates

Dear <<First Name>>, 

Water Wanderings 2023 camp season is officially over, but the ripple effects of this season will be felt for years to come. This year was marked by both triumphs and challenges, which brought together our growing community of campers, counselors, alumni, donors and supporters to forge deeper connections and create lasting memories. Here's a glimpse into the impactful moments that shaped this season:
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Expanding Access with Public Workshops + Collaborations
For the first time in Water Wanderings history, we opened our doors to the public through workshops that extended our reach beyond the confines of our camps. From fishing to soul-soothing singing sessions, these workshops offered a unique opportunity for newcomers to experience the magic of Water Wanderings. We also offered a canoeing field trip and facilitated a game we  designed to teach campers about environmental justice with students and staff from the Burlington School District Summer Program. In total, the public workshops and collaborations served 62 people, nearly tripling the number of participants in our programs this summer. This work, along with guest teachers in camps and additional support from counselor alumni, was made possible by a grant from NorthCountry Federal Credit Union. ​

Navigating the Flood: 13-15 Campers' Resilience

Our Youth Camp for ages 13-15 faced an unexpected trial this season. Heavy rains, which caused major flooding across the state and high waters in camp, tested the resilience of both campers and counselors. Yet, it was within these challenges that our community shone brightest. Our all-new team of counselors was supported by frequent visits from alumni counselors Steph, Stacie, Sonya and Gerette throughout the storm. Their presence created an atmosphere of mentorship, growth, and camaraderie that allowed us to create a nurturing environment for counselors and campers alike. Witnessing our campers' unwavering spirit and the strong bonds they formed during camp was a testament to the strength of the Water Wanderings community and the growth that challenging circumstances can elicit from campers. ​

​Beautiful Moments in Family Camp

Our 2023 family camp connected families for three days of play, learning and relationship building. With three two year olds, two five year olds, and an eight year old, the group was full of youthful energy. Rajnii Eddins, poet and activist, facilitated a workshop where families sang, co-created a freestyle rap, listened to a story and wrote poetry. Eric Nuse, former game warden, also visited camp and taught fishing techniques. Alumni Lydia joined the group as an intern and supported counselor Melisha and Sonya with leading the group. 

Looking forward with Gratitude

As we reflect on the memories and life-changing moments of the Water Wanderings 2023 Camp Season, we extend our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who played a role in making this season a success. Your belief in our mission, your generous support, and your dedication to our community are the driving forces behind the growth we've witnessed.

Many thanks also to our food sponsors this year: Butternut Mountain Farm, Cabot Creamery, Manghi's Bread, Vermont Smoke and Cure, City Market, Backroads Granola, Nut Free Vermont, Nitty Gritty Farm, Vermont Artisan Tea and Coffee, and Costco.

Lastly, we are excited to be working with Green Mountain Advancement through the Vermont Community Foundation's Capacity Building grant program. We received a $5,000 grant to support a year-long consulting engagement with Green Mountain Advancement focused on expanding Water Wanderings fundraising capacity and becoming more financially sustainable. ​

Our partnership with Tru Earth continues - you can reduce your environmental footprint and support Water Wanderings when you purchase their zero waste laundry and home cleaning products at tru-earth.sjv.io/waterwanderingswashes