In the splendid state of Michigan, where the great lakes sparkle like a mermaid's tail, a group of bold and audacious kids embark on an astonishing adventure, the Rope Course challenge. Imagine, if you will, their leader, a tall and quirky gentleman named Sir Bumblebee Swashbuckle, fondly referred to as Bee. Now, Bee, just like his namesake, is a small, round, jovial man with a grand mustache that twirls up at the ends like a roller coaster ride. He wears a bright yellow jacket with black stripes (in true bumblebee fashion), and a top hat that has seen better days. This peculiar character, with his infectious laughter and exuberant spirit, guides the children through the thrilling world of the Rope Course. In Michigan, these thrill-seeking young adventurers are as diverse as the state itself. Some hail from the bustling city of Detroit, while others come from quaint little towns where everyone knows everyone. They climb, swing, and leap through the course with laughter echoing through the air. There are boys and girls, tall and short, thin and not-so-thin, yet all possess an undeniable spirit of resilience and a healthy dash of daring. The rope course, viewed by some as a mere playground, transforms into a magical jungle under Bee's guidance. Each rope swing becomes a vine to swing across crocodile-infested rivers, each rope bridge, a perilous path above a deep, roaring canyon. Amidst all the laughter, each child learns the importance of courage, teamwork, and the power of imagination. As the sun sets over the beautiful Michigan horizon, these brave kids return home with dirt-streaked faces, wind-tousled hair, and hearts full of joy and unforgettable memories.
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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.
At YMCA Storer Camps, we are dedicated to providing an immersive outdoor experience for our campers. Our 1300 acres of beautiful landscape in the Irish Hills region of southeast Michigan create the perfect environment for campers to explore, discover and grow. YMCA Storer Camps have been offering Outdoor Education programs since the late 1960s, making us one of the earliest programs of its kind in the United States. Our two centers, located on both sides of Stony Lake, offer a variety of programs for our campers. The North Center offers Outdoor School, Youth and Teen Camps, while the South Center hosts Specialty and Day Camps during the summer months. At YMCA Storer Camps, we believe in providing a safe and exciting outdoor experience for our campers.
At YMCA Storer Camps, we understand the unique challenges faced by children dealing with the difficulties of cancer. That is why we offer Camp Catch-A-Rainbow (CCAR) for free. This camp is specifically designed for children between the ages of four and seventeen who are fighting or have fought cancer. At CCAR, kids can enjoy a variety of activities including swimming, archery, and horseback riding. They can also challenge themselves with high adventure ropes courses and explore their creative side through arts and crafts. We also offer canoeing as an activity at no cost to campers. At YMCA Storer Camps, we believe in the power of play to help children with cancer. Thanks to the generosity of donors and grants, Camp Catch-A-Rainbow is free for all campers. Our goal is to provide a safe and fun environment for kids to simply have a good time and build lifelong memories.