One Less Camp and Fewer Opportunities for Children & Families

We were very saddened to hear of the closing of Camp Algonquin, which was run by the YMCA of McHenry County. Sad because we know how perilously close Anokijig came to meeting a similar fate, when the Racine YMCA decided to sell Anokijig in 2005. Sad because we know Camp Algonquin served an important role in it's community for thousands of children and families for more than 100 years. Sad because we know when camps close, new camps do not open somewhere else to replace them, rather, we are simply left with one less camp.

Algonquin's closing will likely signal the end of outdoor experiences for many of it's former campers, while Anokijig may see a new group of displaced Algonquin campers this summer, who are seeking out camping alternatives. That is certainly not the circumstances under which we would like to welcome new campers. We know the special feelings a summer camp can foster in the hearts and minds of those who attend it and we know Algonquin will be missed by all those who were fortunate enough to have camping experiences there.

Don't miss your chance at Anokijig Summer Camp 2011

With winter breathing its last breath, it’s time for spring at Anokijig. This very weekend a host of volunteers will arrive to start bringing Anokijig Summer Camp out of storage!

The days for swimming, sailing, fishing, horserides, drama, dance, campfires, archery, beach parties, and all the summer fun are just around the corner.

The Anokijig staff is busy making plans and preparations for this to be the best summer ever. All of our great returning programs are getting ready as well as new specialty skills like Yoga, Theatre in the Woods, and Irish Dance, plus a great new day trip to the EAA Air museum. This is going to be one of the most exciting summers ever!

Now that the days are longer, temperatures warmer, and summer sports activity schedules are out; our office has registrations pouring in. Since we never want to see a camper miss out on a chance to return to Anokijig, we thought we’d drop you a line just to be sure that if you haven’t already signed up for your 2011 session; now is the time.

If you are looking to come a particular week, with certain friends, for your favorite “special theme day”, or on one of our great trips, please sign up now. It would be a shame if you missed your favorites because they filled before you were able to register. Don’t miss your chance to get in on the fun.

We’ve made it incredibly easy to get yourself a spot. If you still need to reserve your date; choose your method:

• Just hop on the website at http://www.anokijig.com/forms.html and sign up on our online registration page.
• Download a printable form for US Mail, scan and email, or fax from http://www.anokijig.com/forms.html.
• Or call our office direct at 1-800-741-6931 (920-893-0782) and we’ll gladly have a real live person ready to help you.

It’s time for another summer of Outrageous Fun, New Friends, Old Friends, and Incredible Experiences.

Unfortunately if you wait too long you may find your chosen week, trip, or program full; so please don’t delay!

We also know that in today’s economy decisions may be a little tougher to make. Remember that at Anokijig we do have some programs that might help.

• All campers can participate in candy sales (50% of every bar sold goes directly to the campers’ account).
  
• Our unique internet fundraising sales (magazines, gifts, candies, with 40% of every item sold going directly to the campers’ account).
  
• For campers 14 years old or older the Stamper program is priced significantly lower in exchange for the campers’ service in the dining/dish room area for one meal per day.
• Partial or Full camperships based on financial need are available.
  

For information on any of these programs please feel to contact our office at 1-800-741-6931 (920-893-0782) or anokijig@excel.net.

For information on all of our programs and happenings see www.anokijig.com.

If you are one of the many that have already secured your session; WELCOME BACK! We can’t wait to see you! Also remember if you recruit a new friend to come to camp you get a discount, recruit 5 new friends and your week is FREE. Or maybe that lets you come for another week of camp and more Outrageous Fun!

Anokijig 2011 is going to be great. Let us be your summer stimulus package. Sign-up now!

See you this summer!

Take Care,
Darin Holden
Program Director
Camp Anokijig
www.anokijig.com
"Anokijig Changes Lives"

Anokijig's Pellet Gun Program is ready for 2011!

The Illinois 4H program began a shooting sports program last year and the response has been tremendous. In fact, they've had to turn some kids away, due to a lack of qualified instructors. We're always disappointed to hear such news, because we know the value of kids trying new activities and learning important safety procedures and skills.

Anokijig's pellet gun range is one of our newer skill areas, but it has already become one of our most-popular and we do have plenty of space available. If your child is in Mercer, Henderson, Warren or any other county that does not have enough qualified instructors, please consider Camp Anokijig as an alternative. Your kids will love it!

Is Tonight Your Lucky Night?

The Racine Founders Rotary Club is hosting their Vegas Night fundraiser in Racine tonight! Proceeds from this fantastic event will go to benefit Camp Anokijig and we are extremely grateful to have such wonderful partners in the community as the Racine Founders Rotary Club. This event simply could not happen, were it not for the assistance of our fantastic volunteers, who take time out of their weekend to pitch in and help work the event and we thank you very much for your assistance!

You don't need to be Danny Ocean to be a big winner at this event, anyone who participates wins, because they are helping make Camp Anokijig a better place for future generations. Please join us at Racine's Festival Hall tonight from 7PM to 10PM and good luck!