From the bottom of our hearts, thank you all for another wonderful summer at camp. Our theme this year was “Disney” and, as we hoped, the magic of Disney blended with the magic of camp to create something truly unique and unforgettable.

“Today is a good day to try.”
The Hunchback of Notre Dame

One of the best parts of camp is pushing outside of our comfort zones to try something new (or get up again after we fall). From riding a bike for the first time, to getting out for a horseback ride, or even just trying new food—our campers jumped at opportunities to experience, learn and grow.

We had the opportunity to partner with new organizations and volunteers this year and we’re so glad we did. We visited the Sun Valley Ski Education “Air Barn” for flips and tricks. There was a tea party at the Sawtooth Botanical Gardens. We set up a music room for campers to try new instruments and collaborate on writing a new song and one of the biggest hits at Youth Camp was the introduction of RC cars at the carnival for the first time.

Whatever the challenge, campers had a chance to try something for the first time or see how they improved in a year. And that’s all we ever ask, give it a try.

“You’ve got a friend in me.”
Toy Story

And trying new things is never a solo venture. Each day as campers helped each other, gave encouraging words, a tip, a trick, or a bit of kind advice, new friendships began to blossom.

We had many new campers this year and the way they were welcomed into the fold was heartwarming. The relationships that are forged at camp can last a lifetime.

“Remember, You’re the One Who Can Fill the World with Sunshine”
Snow White

While we talk a lot about the fun camp activities, challenges and adventures, relationships are what we hold most dear and those are built in the quiet moments of camp. There are late-night conversations in cabins, sharing shines after meals, helping to clean up after an art project or sharing a book during toes-up. (We won’t even get started on cabin raiding!)

Those are the moments that are special and make Camp Rainbow Gold the magical space that it is.

“Hakuna Matata.”
The Lion King

We know it is never easy to send your child away for a full week of camp which is why we are so thankful for all the hard work are volunteers and leadership teams put in to ease those worries.

The preparation our volunteers put into each camp makes a world of difference for our campers and we are thrilled they ran with the theme this year. From styling the archery range after Merida from Brave to turning dances and carnivals over to your children’s favorite characters from movies like Toy Story, there were comforting allusions to favorite childhood tales around every corner.

Leadership teams start planning for each camp in February and volunteers start their training and education cycle each May. The work they put in helps us all sing “Hakuna Matata” each week as we launch the next camp.

Camp Rainbow Gold has been accredited by the American Camp Association since 2002 and this year was an accreditation year for the organization which required a site visit during one of the camps to ensure we were providing a safe, productive and positive experience for all our campers. The visit was a great success thanks to all our staff and volunteers. We have “no worries” about the results and will share them with you soon.

“Open different doors. You may find a you there that you never knew was yours.”
Mary Poppins

While camp might be over, we still have an amazing year ahead and lots of opportunities to get involved. Our Survivors Supporting Survivors teen group will start meeting in September with a night at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival, we’ll have family events, volunteer opportunities and our Family Fall Retreat in October. Keep an eye on our calendar. Also, don’t forget your camp family—reach out, we’re here to support each other.

“All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.”
Walt Disney