YMCA Camp Zehnder Introduces Challenging Specialty Program

Wall, NJ (June 23, 2016) – The Community YMCA’s Camp Zehnder is one of the first youth camps in the United States to offer the Spartan Edge program this summer, a unique experience from Spartan Race, the world’s leading obstacle race company, that challenges kids physically and mentally through a series of obstacles.

“We are excited to partner with Spartan to bring this opportunity to our campers,” said Barry Martin, Vice President of Health, Wellness, and Camping at The Community YMCA. “At the Y, we know that when kids are given an opportunity to accomplish new skills in a supportive environment, they feel more confident and self-assured.”

For over 50 years, Camp Zehnder has offered a mix of fun and educational activities aimed at improving kids’ well-being, such as archery, ropes courses, swimming, zip-lining and team-building, Martin said. “Our program centers on three areas proven to impact kids’ development: friendship, accomplishment, and belonging,” he said. “We believe the Spartan activities will add a whole new dimension of achievement to our summer day camp.”

Well-known for its obstacle races around the world, Spartan is “dedicated to helping to make the next generation healthy,” said Diane Stokes, Spartan’s Vice President of Education and Leadership Development. The summer camp program is designed to help kids develop not only physically, but mentally. “Having strong mental strength is a critical aspect of performance and it teaches you how to deal with real issues. Being able to overcome adversity is key and that is what we teach at Spartan,” she said.

Children enrolled in the Spartan Edge camp will participate in “fun and exciting obstacles, both physical and mental, that help build strength, resilience and teamwork,” Stokes said.

The Spartan Edge camp will take place Aug. 8-12, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m., and will include a high ropes course, low ropes course, and pool activities, culminating with a mini youth Spartan obstacle course. The children will be split into two groups, ages 6-9 and 10-14.

In addition to the Spartan Edge Camp, Camp Zehnder is offering the following educational specialty camps to help children learn, grow and thrive:

· Junior Chef Camp for ages 5-7, July 18-22

· Art Camp for ages 7-10, August 1-5

· Science Camp for ages 9-12, August 15-19.

“As a nonprofit, the Y is committed to strengthening community through youth development programs,” Martin said. “Through our day camps and other programs, the Y is working to keep kids active and address gaps in learning when school is not in session.”

To learn more about YMCA Camp Zehnder day camp programs, visit www.TheCommunityYMCA.org or call 732.836.9177.

Photo Caption: Local youth will have a chance to participate in ropes courses and other exciting activities at YMCA Camp Zehnder this summer.

About The Community YMCA
The Y is a leading nonprofit charity that strengthens communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Community YMCA serves more than 20,000 residents in greater Monmouth County through programs such as preschool, before and after school care, health and wellness, leadership, arts enrichment, personal and family counseling and summer day camp. With a mission to serve all, more than $350,000 in direct reduced and free membership fees and programs is provided by the YCares financial assistance program to individuals and families in need. For more information, visit TheCommunityYMCA.org.

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