In the spirited land of Michigan, where the Great Lakes stretch out like vast, blue, wobbly jelly and the forests are so thick they seem to whisper secrets, there exists a unique band of kids. These are the Sew-Sews of Michigan, a group of kids so crafty, they could stitch a rainbow into a pillowcase! Our tale revolves around the young master of the needle, Oliver Bobbin. With a head of hair like a mound of red yarn and freckles that dotted his cheeks like little buttons, Oliver was not your average Michigan kid. He could thread a needle faster than a cheetah on roller-skates, and sew a button so tight, not even the strongest lumberjack could yank it off! Oliver, along with his gang of stitch-savvy comrades, would gather in their secret fort—a massive quilted tent in the heart of the whispering forest. There, surrounded by the chit-chat of chaffinches and the giggling winds, they'd sew magical garments. You see, every stitch they sewed, every seam they sealed, held a spark of Michigan magic. Oftentimes, their creations were quite hilarious. There was the time they sewed a pair of pants that could walk by themselves. Another time, they made a hat that could sing! Their laughter echoed through the forest, making even the grumbliest grizzly bear chuckle. So, if you ever find yourself in the enchanting state of Michigan, listen out for the laughter weaving through the whispering trees. Who knows, you might just be lucky enough to meet the legendary Sew-Sews and their fantastic leader, Oliver Bobbin.
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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.


REACH Studio Art Center is a vibrant non-profit community art center that provides a creative outlet for people of all ages and abilities. At their seven studios located in the REO Town district of Lansing, Michigan, they offer a variety of classes and workshops taught by local teaching artists. These classes and workshops are available at free and sliding-scale fees. The REACH Art Truck program brings the creative outlet to people around town. Through this program, they are able to bring the same classes and workshops that are available at the studios to people who may not be able to physically get to the studios. REACH Studio Art Center provides a safe and welcoming environment for people to explore the arts. Their mission is to provide a creative outlet to people of all ages and abilities. With the help of the local teaching artists, they are able to bring the creative outlet to those around town.