Rye YMCA Summer Camp Welcomes Assemblyman Steve Otis

New York State Assemblyman Steve Otis recently visited the children at the Rye YMCA’s summer camp at Osborn Elementary School to learn about new initiatives to help children thrive.

Otis was led on the tour by camp director John Rice, and during the visit Otis saw several programs in action, including the Lego, Fine Arts, Sports and Discovery camps, which serve boys and girls from ages four to 12. Rice explained that the Y is always seeking ways to enrich the camp experience; two years ago, campers began earning beads for each achievement, last year, campers were given journals to write about their experiences and this year the Y partnered with the Rye Free Reading Room on a summer reading program. These initiatives are designed to build confidence and stem summer learning loss.

“I really enjoyed seeing how engaged the staff and the kids were,” said Otis in a statement. “The camp is so comprehensive; I was impressed at how each of the programs help children learn new skills and start the school year prepared.”

Rye Y summer camps serve 700 children each day from late June through late August. In addition to the camps located at Osborn School, the Y runs several camps out of its Locust Avenue facility, including KinderCamp, Gymnastics and Teen Fitness. And every day, the Y’s Adventure Camp takes tweens and teens on fun outings and community service projects around the region.

Photo: NYS Assemblyman Steve Otis, left, visits with camp counselor Jennifer Cacciola and members of her group during a recent visit to the Rye Y’s summer camp. Photo credit: Rye YMCA