In the tiny but mighty state of Rhode Island, the smallest state in the USA, lived a group of wildly brave and energetic kids who passionately played football. These kids were no ordinary ones, they were the "Rhode Warriors"! These miniature heroes played football with a spirit as vibrant as a rainbow after a summer rain and as mighty as the waves crashing onto the state’s picturesque coastline. Their team mascot was none other than an hilariously quirky and lovable character, known as 'Tackle Tom'. Tackle Tom was a gigantic, jiggly, jellybean-shaped giant. His belly wobbled like a bowl full of jelly every time he laughed. And oh boy, did he love to laugh! He had a booming laugh that could be heard all the way from the historic Breakers Mansion in Newport to the always bustling Providence city center. Tom was a true Rhode Islander at heart. Just like the kids, he was small in size, but a giant in spirit. He had a heart as big as the Narraganset Bay and a smile as wide as the Newport Bridge. His colorful outfits mirrored the Rhode Island state flag: white, gold, and blue, with a blazing anchor emblem on his belly, which would light up every time the Rhode Warriors scored a touchdown. Tom was the embodiment of Rhode Island's state motto, "Hope". Every Saturday, the Rhode Warriors, with their jellybean giant, Tackle Tom, would storm onto the football field, as they readied themselves for another exciting game. The roar from the crowd, the laughter of Tackle Tom, and the Rhode Warriors' indomitable spirit perfectly displayed the unique charm of this little New England state and its football-loving kids.
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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.
Athletes and their families everywhere can find strength and hope in Special Olympics. It’s a global movement that uses the power and joy of sports to transform lives. Through sports, health, education, and community programming, Special Olympics are working to solve the issues of inactivity, intolerance, isolation, and injustice that many people face, particularly those with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics Rhode Island provides year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports, helping people with intellectual disabilities develop physical fitness, experience joy, and build friendships with their families and their communities.
The Smithfield YMCA strives to promote Youth Development, Healthy Living & Social Responsibility through membership and programs, for everyone in our community, regardless of one's race, age, gender, etc., and one's ability to pay. The YMCA of Smithfield emphasizes a healthy spirit, mind, and body by promoting programs that have a positive impact on our members. We are a community that truly embodies the core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. We currently offer health and fitness, aquatics and camp and sports programs for people of all ages. More than just a pool, gym, or wellness center, the Smithfield YMCA promotes youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.