Deep in the heart of the whimsical wonderland called Illinois, there's a merry band of young adventurers known as the Ice Gliders. Now, you may think Illinois is all about towering skyscrapers, bustling cities, and endless cornfields. But you would be missing out on one of its coolest secrets: the glittering, ice-skating rinks that beckon youngsters from all over the state. Led by their fearless and slightly zany leader Captain Glide-a-lot, these kids aren't your ordinary Illinoisans. Absolutely not! They are daring ice wizards who can perform triple axels and flamingo jumps, all before breakfast! Even the most ferocious Blackhawks fan would trade his hockey stick for a pair of skates to join them. Captain Glide-a-lot, with his neon-green ice skates and a hat that would make even a peacock blush, is the silliest sight you can imagine. He twirls around, hilariously sliding on his belly like a playful seal one minute, then suddenly pirouetting with the grace of a ballet dancer the next. He is the heart and soul of these icy escapades, ushering in laughter and pure joy every time his skate touches the ice. Illinois might be known for the Windy City, Lincoln, and the Mississippi River, but it's these Ice Gliders who make the state extra special. With their twinkling eyes and rosy cheeks, they whirl around their icy playground, conjuring magic with every sweep of their skates. And at the center of it all is Captain Glide-a-lot, the funniest and most lovable ice skating captain you'll ever meet. So, the next time you think of Illinois, remember the Ice Gliders! They're the coolest kids on block (or rather, the ice), and their frosty adventures are just waiting to be discovered.
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Dear Families, (currently our website is under construction) 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.
Our daily operations are guided by the goals and dreams we have for our organization. We are inspired and energized by our mission and vision, which serve as our “North Star”. This provides our passionate staff and volunteers with the clarity and direction to commit their time and efforts to the Y. At the YMCA of Metro Chicago, we firmly believe in the power of community. We strive to empower individuals to reach their potential and to come together as a collective to transform lives. Each and every day, our team is driven by our mission and vision to make this mission a reality. Our “North Star” provides us with the direction we need to remain focused on our goals and dreams for the YMCA of Metro Chicago. We are dedicated to creating a culture of purpose, inclusivity, and belonging. We are dedicated to creating a sense of hope and optimism for the future. We are dedicated to creating positive change in our community. The YMCA of Metro Chicago is focused on making a difference, and our mission and vision serve as the shining beacon to guide us along the way.