Close your eyes.  Now think back to when you were a young teenager.  Come on – it wasn’t that long ago!

What are some of your favorite summertime memories?  Are they sitting in front of a television set all day?  Or playing video games on the computer?

Or are they sleeping under the stars and cooking on an open fire?  Perhaps they are hiking through the wilderness or snorkeling in the cool waters of the sea?

This summer twenty four lucky teens will have the opportunity to experience the wonder, beauty and inexplicable nature of God’s outdoor creation in a brand new YMCA adventure called Extreme Teen Overnight Camp. 

Modeled according to the YMCA of the USA’s Outdoor Adventure Programs and offered by the Y’s Camp Cristina day camp, the Y Extreme Teen Overnight Camp will challenge young people to plan, prepare, train and experience the adventure of two unique Florida environments – John Pennekamp Park in Key Largo and the Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna.

This sumemr Camp Cristina will offer Extreme Teen Overnight Camp. This brand new 

program will push teens to the limit with a variety of exciting and spirited challenges.

Twelve-year-old Liam Cackowski is planning to attend.  And Kim, Liam’s mother, is excited about her son’s participation.  “This will be an incredible experience Liam will likely never forget.  There is no greater classroom than the outdoors for learning about yourself. Liam will gain independence and greater self-assurance through this fun experience.”

“Participating in outdoor camps has the potential to cause extraordinary changes,” explains Camp Director Darren Dannelly.  “Each trip will focus on four types of development:  Spiritual, Mental, Physical and Social.”  Teens will plan their menus, shop for food and learn the value of healthy nutrition and purchasing options.  With the guidance and support of skilled counselors, participants will be challenged to move outside their comfort zone and grow to new levels they may not have thought possible through activities such as canoeing, hiking, caving and snorkeling.  Topics such as the environment, wildlife, water safety, pollution and outdoor safety will be taught in the beauty of Florida’s native environment.

Kim and her family have been members of the Y for many years.  “The experience we have had for the past 8 to 10 years has been wonderful.  The counselors are amazing!”

Liam is excited about the experience.  “I am looking forward to making stronger friendships and seeing what it is like to be out on my own!  I have never experienced anything like this!”