Once upon a time, in the heartland of America, was the vibrant and verdant state of Virginia. It was a place known for its rich history and natural beauty, where the mighty Blue Ridge Mountains shook hands with the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. But it wasn't just the breathtaking landscapes that made Virginia special. Oh no! It was the boys and girls who had an insatiable curiosity and a thirst for knowledge, particularly in the exciting world of STEM/STEAM that truly made this state shine. Meet Volt, a whacky wizard of Virginia with twinkling eyes, a pointy hat, and a lightning bolt-shaped beard. Volt knew something magical was happening in Virginia. A wonderful wave of children, as bright as the stars in the Milky Way, had begun exploring Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) with great enthusiasm. These were no ordinary kids, oh no, these were Virginia's very own 'STEM-sters'. They tinkered with technology, engineered extraordinary machines, conducted curious experiments, created amazing art, and solved mind-boggling math problems. And the best part? They did all this while laughing, learning, and letting their imagination run wild! Volt watched in amazement as these kids built robots, designed video games, conducted chemical reactions, and used math to solve real-world problems. They would often turn their own homes into secret laboratories, their backyards into spaceship building stations and their classrooms into magical realms of knowledge. All the while, their laughter and excitement echoed through the valleys of Virginia, showing the world the true power of learning and fun. Virginia, the state of beautiful landscapes and brilliant minds, was now also the home of the world's most adventurous 'STEM-sters'. And the wizard Volt? Well, he couldn't be prouder, as he flew across the state on his techno-magic broomstick, spreading the joy of STEM/STEAM to every corner.
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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.
That's the mission of our United Community, founded in 1969 by several faith-based groups and a handful of dedicated volunteers. Today, our United Community is the leading human services non-profit agency in southeastern Fairfax County. With its grassroots beginnings, the organization's work has grown to encompass a broad spectrum of social services, from early childhood education to workforce development, to help meet the needs of the community. At our United Community, we strive to build thriving communities and create equitable opportunities. Our dedicated volunteers and staff are committed to providing supportive services and advancing community-driven solutions to ensure that everyone in southeastern Fairfax County can lead a healthy, productive life.