In the grand, golden state of California, where the sun shines brighter than a clown's nose, and the waves dance more than a jelly on a trampoline, there's a group of extraordinary kids known as the "Gaga Ball Gang." This isn't your ordinary group of kids, oh no! These are the bravest, most adventurous, and giggliest children you'll ever meet. Their leader, a daring lad named "Flip-Flop Freddy," is renowned for his flaming red hair, as wild as a lion's mane, and his feet which, believe it or not, are always equipped with flip-flops, come rain or shine! Freddy, along with his vibrant team, play a game called Gaga Ball, a wild, wacky game that's as crazy and fun as its name suggests. The Gaga Ball Gang, meet every day at the Gaga pit - a legendary place where many a Giggle-Off (an official term for a Gaga Ball match) has been fought. It's a place where the laughter echoes louder than a hyena at a stand-up comedy show. In these epic Giggle-Offs, the ball bounces as unpredictably as a kangaroo on a pogo stick, and the children jump and duck with a nimbleness that would make a cat envious. The air buzzes with excitement, and the ground shakes from the energetic stomps of the Gaga Ball Gang. California may be known for its golden beaches and shiny Hollywood stars, but for the kids here, the real magic happens in the dusty Gaga pit, under the watchful eye of the ever-smiling Flip-Flop Freddy. The Gaga Ball Gang, they're the real stars of California, the ones who make the state truly shine.
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Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
Camp del Corazon is a beacon of hope for children living with heart disease, providing a medically supervised, residential summer camp experience free of charge for children ages 7-17. Since 1995, we have served approximately 300 children each year, and grown from a volunteer staff of two and a minimal budget to a thriving community of support and growth. Our camp on Catalina Island, 22 miles off the California coast, is dedicated to providing resources and services for these children and their families, who already incur incredible financial burdens from medical bills and often have to seek private or home schooling due to the numerous doctors' appointments and hospital stays. By supporting Camp del Corazon, we give these children the chance to experience the joy of summer camp and connect with other kids who understand what it's like to live with heart disease.