South Carolina, or as our imaginary friend, the sassy pelican Pelly calls it, "Sunshine Central", is a magical place draped in shimmering beaches, lush green forests and sprinkled with fire-like sunsets. Pelly, with his sun-bleached feathers and beach ball belly, loves nothing more than to watch the volleyball games of the feisty South Carolinian kids who treat this sport almost like a religion. Pelly would tell you tales of these volleyball warriors as he lazily floats on the warm ocean waves. With sand sticking to their sunblock-lathered bodies and their laughter echoing off the Atlantic, the kids of South Carolina have a unique spark. Volleyball is not just a game here; it's a way of life. These pint-sized athletes, with their salt-tousled hair and sun-kissed skin, play with such gusto that Pelly often jokes he's watching the 'Summer Olympics.' What a sight they are! They dive for the ball like dolphins, leap for a spike like kangaroos, and serve with the precision of a hawk spotting its prey. Each match is an epic battle, filled with heroic saves, monstrous spikes, and laughter that competes with the squawk of the seagulls. Despite the intense rivalry, there's an undercurrent of camaraderie that's as warm as the South Carolina sun. Win or lose, the kids of "Sunshine Central" know that the real victory lies in enjoying the game and cherishing the friendships made in the sandy battlefield. As Pelly would say, "In South Carolina, you don't just play volleyball; you live it, breathe it, and sometimes, even dream it!" So, if you ever find yourself in this magical state, make sure you join the kids for a game under the watchful eyes of Pelly, the volleyball-obsessed pelican!
Read morebest volleyball programs in Greenville, SC
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.
At the Caine Halter Family YMCA, we recognize that a strong and vibrant community is built on inclusion and respect. Our teams are passionate about making sure everyone feels welcome and accepted, regardless of their background or beliefs. We are proud to be a place where every voice is heard, and everyone can find the tools they need to reach their goals. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is a cornerstone of our values, and we strive to ensure that our community reflects the diversity of the world around us. We are proud of the Caine Halter Family YMCA and what it stands for. We are committed to being a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive force in our community, and to helping all our members achieve their goals. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels respected and valued, and where all can have access to the many resources the YMCA provides. We are dedicated to making sure that all members and visitors to our facility are welcomed with open arms.