Fifty elementary students from the Renfrew County Catholic District School Board experienced the camping adventure of a lifetime on January 21–23, 2015.
Seventeen students from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Wilno, and 33 students from St. Andrew’s Catholic School in Killaloe attended Tim Horton’s Camp des Voyageurs in Quyon, Quebec, along the Ottawa River.
“Tim Horton’s Camp was the best camp I have ever been to. We did activities, had free time, and even had a dance party!” says Aimee Cybulskie, Grade 5.
The Tim Horton Children’s Foundation provides thousands of children across Canada and the United States with an opportunity to participate at one of their six camps at no cost. Funds to support the camps are raised throughout the year by Camp Day, donations, and other fundraising activities.
“Schools are able to apply to go to fall, winter or spring camps through the Year Round Group Program,” says Ann Lepine, Principal of St. Mary’s and one of seven staff members who accompanied students to camp.
The Foundation is “committed to providing an enriched and memorable camp experience” with camp programs and activities that are designed to help children build self-confidence, leadership skills, and a positive outlook.
“My favourite part was the game ‘Drop that tune’ where we had to guess the song that was playing. I hope other kids get to do the same thing,” says Nicole Recoskie, Grade 7.
Participants at camp are also introduced to the Foundation’s G.R.E.A.T. Bead Program. “Each participant could earn beads for exhibiting behaviours in goal setting, responsible leadership, environmental awareness, adventure, and teamwork,” notes Lepine.
Some of the winter activities students participated in included skating, hockey, luge, snowshoeing, survival, and night hikes.
“Tim Horton’s Camp was awesome ‘cause we got to make fires and drink cedar tea!” says, Brady Cybulskie, Grade 4.
Students are already asking when they can go again states Lepine.
February 9, 2015
For further information, please contact:
Michele Arbour, Director of Education
Renfrew County Catholic District School Board
499 Pembroke Street West, Pembroke, ON K8A 5P1
Phone: 613-735-1031 or 1-800-267-0191
