Three Generations of Camping

May 5th, 2011 by Jon Simons

While attending the Annual Campaign Victory Celebration for The Community Y in New Jersey last evening I had the honor of visiting with three generations of “camp kids.”

Zack is a 5th grader who loves Camp Arrowhead and as his mom shared with the audience, “It is a place where Zack (who struggles with some behavior issues) is not only accepted but celebrated for who he is!”

Image from YMCA Camp Arrowhead website

Steve, the Co-chair of the Y’s Annual Campaign and one of the area’s leading philanthropists (recently hosting an event at his restaurant raising over $45,000 for the Y) proudly introduced himself to the crowd as a former Arrowhead camper and encouraged Zack to follow his dreams. Steve also makes a point of hiring young people and takes great satisfaction in watching them grow into responsible and caring adults.

Zaban, a member of the Y’s Foundation Board, grew up during the Great Depression and attended Camp Opportunity with his older brother on scholarship from 1939-1941. Zaban shared with me that the Y had a huge influence on his life’s commitment to helping others. Zaban is a retired physician and the proud dad of two successful doctors.

YMCA Camping is for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility!