The state of Michigan, or as our imaginative and funny hero, Captain Maple, calls it, the "Mitten Wonderland," is a place of wonders, surrounded by the majestic Great Lakes and filled with countless towering trees. In this beautiful state, the snowflakes are softer, the maple syrup is sweeter, and the kids are nothing short of extraordinary. The children of Michigan are a special breed indeed. They are as spritely as the squirrels, as swift as the wind sweeping across Lake Superior, and as brave as the Wolverines they share their state with. They have the unique talent of turning a simple game into a legendary adventure. Take Gaga Ball, for example. To the untrained eye, it may look like a bunch of kids bouncing a ball around an enclosed space. But in the minds of the Michigan kids, it’s a high-intensity face-off in the Gaga Ball Arena of Destiny! Captain Maple himself, with his syrup-slicked mustache and pancake-shaped shield, is an avid fan of Gaga Ball. He watches as the kids leap and dodge, their laughter echoing around the arena. This isn't just a game. No, no! This is a battle of agility, a test of courage, and a display of pure Michigan spirit! With each round, the kids morph into different characters - swift raccoons, fierce eagles, laughing hyenas, and even the silent, stalking cougars. Captain Maple, a proud tear in his eye, often joins in, his boisterous laughter filling the air. Even though he’s a bit too large for the arena and his pancake shield always gets in the way, his love for Gaga Ball is as big as Michigan itself! In Michigan, where the trees stand tall and the lakes shimmer under the sun, the enchanting game of Gaga Ball reigns supreme, turning ordinary kids into legends of their own epic tales.
Read morebest gaga-ball programs in Gowen, MI
DEBUT Creative Center & Theater-Studio is a dual-language (English–Russian) program where kids explore creativity, confidence, and self-expression. From theater and dance to fencing and stage performance, children can try new activities and discover their unique talents. Small class sizes let instructors give each child personalized attention, helping them feel comfortable, supported, and confident as they learn. Kids build artistic skills while also developing social confidence, teamwork, and poise on stage and in everyday life. Our programs celebrate each child’s individuality, combining fun, hands-on experiences with a focus on personal growth—all while keeping Russian language and culture an important part of the curriculum.
Camp Concordia began in 1957 as an initiative of the Grand Valley Camp Association of the Lutheran Laymen's League. Since then, its mission has been to give children, youth and families the chance to encounter Christ in God's Creation. Through activities like swimming, archery, riflery, hikes, campouts, and more, campers get to experience the infinite love of God and learn to respect one another. All of this is overseen by trained counselors who are passionate about Jesus. In addition to having fun and making memories, campers also build strong missional skills and develop a call to action.
Camp Greenwood offers a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and development, providing an environment in which children of all ages can learn, have fun, and grow in their faith. At Camp Greenwood, we provide a safe, fun, and meaningful environment for campers to learn and grow. We strive to provide a supportive atmosphere for campers to cultivate relationships with their peers, parents, and local churches. We believe in teaching our campers to take what they have learned and put it into practice, by engaging in outdoor activities, service projects, and other activities that strengthen their faith and help them live their lives as Christians.