In the small, enchanting state of Connecticut, where autumn leaves fall like multi-colored rain and winters wrap everything in a blanket of shimmering white, a group of plucky young individuals gather, armed with bows and arrows. Their mission? To master the ancient sport of archery, of course! Our story revolves around our prime protagonist, Tommy "Bullseye" Tompkins, a scruffy-haired, freckle-faced twelve-year-old. Tommy is just an everyday kid who stumbled upon archery one summer when his conventional slingshot "accidentally" broke the neighbor's greenhouse window. Let's just say, parents weren't thrilled. Hence, the safer and more controlled sport of archery! Now, if you think archery in Connecticut is all about hitting targets on trees and straw bales, then you’re mistaken! Oh no, sir! You see, our Connecticut kids are a quirky bunch. They’ve given a whole new dimension to this sport. Their targets include jiggly jell-O, colorful balloons, and sometimes, if they’re feeling particularly daring, a ripe tomato from old Mrs. Johnson’s garden. That's right, the one who is infamous for her watchdog, Bruno the Bulldog! All in all, it's not just about the archery. It's about the hilarious misadventures and incredible friendships formed. Each day brings a new tale, a new challenge, and a new laugh. Attend an archery practice in Connecticut, and you'll discover a symphony of twanging bows, whooshing arrows, resounding laughter, and the occasional high-pitched yelp when someone hits their own shoe instead of the target. Ah, the joys of youth and archery in Connecticut! There goes another tomato! Take cover!
Read morebest archery programs in Plainville, CT
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.
At the YMCA of Greater Hartford, our mission is to help people of all ages and backgrounds reach their fullest potential in spirit, mind and body. We strive to foster a culture of integrity and respect by espousing universal values of care, honesty, respect and responsibility. Our vision is to be a premier charitable organization, providing the necessary resources and support to help youth, families and individuals lead healthy, successful and meaningful lives. We believe that by promoting youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, we can truly make a lasting impact on our community.