The Quality Eight

The major expectations of a YMCA Summer Camp, as developed by the Ontario Resident Camping Advisory Committee, are summarized as the Quality Eight. These are the major principles on which all of the Recommended Practices are based.

Fun
Camp is fun! Fun is central to camp with new and exciting adventures and experiences that are grounded in positive YMCA values.

Safety
Camp focuses on all aspects of safety – social, emotional and physical , while also recognizing the importance of campers actually feeling safe while at camp.

  Friendship
Camp is a place where friendships that last anywhere from a week to a lifetime are created, valued and maintained.

Belonging
Camp is a place of caring, belonging and responsibility. It is important for campers to learn about care and responsibility for themselves, others and the camp, while feeling like they are part of something special.

Learning
Campers have lots of opportunities to learn, to be challenged and to improve in spirit, mind and body.

Life Needs
Camp meets personal life needs by providing clean and inviting spaces to sleep, wholesome, balanced and enjoyable meals and clean washroom facilities.

Natural World
Camp treasures the natural world and campers learn to care for and value their natural surroundings and environment.

Place to Return
Camp is a place to return to as campers develop a committed relationship with the camp and want to come back each year.