A Summer to Remember
What an incredible summer it was at Camp Simmons and Teen Camp!
At Camp Simmons, known for its rich traditions, adventure was around every corner. Campers enjoyed a range of outdoor activities designed to build teamwork and leadership skills while fostering a love for nature. Hiking through the trails, campers learned about local wildlife and the importance of conservation. The thrill of kayaking and canoeing on the camp’s lake offered not just excitement but also a chance to learn water safety and paddling techniques.
Beyond outdoor adventures, art classes allowed campers to explore their creativity through painting, drawing, and sculpting, often inspired by the natural beauty around them.
Academic enrichment, known as Summer Brain Gain, was another key component of the camp experience. Educators from the Bruce Museum ran weekly Science experiments. Nature studies and reading sessions were
integrated into daily activities, ensuring that campers returned to school with sharpened minds.
For the teen campers, the summer was about more than just fun and games; it was about developing leadership skills and preparing for the future. BGCG’s Teen Camp offered a unique program tailored to the interests and needs of older campers, with a focus on building character and fostering personal growth.
Teens participated in workshops on leadership and teamwork, along with a variety of field trips, giving them the chance to enjoy new experiences. From thrilling rides at Playland and water adventures at Lake Compounce to friendly bowling and mini golf competitions, the teens were engaged and entertained.
Due to the renovation and expansion of our main facility, Clubhouse Camp was not offered this summer.
With your help, the Club provided over $114,000 in reduced fees and financial assistance for campers, making summer enrichment accessible to all!
23% of all campers received some level of financial aid.
Camp Simmons
490 campers enjoyed our 77-acre Lake Avenue facility. 105 Campers attended all 8 weeks of Camp.
It was another amazing summer at Camp Simmons, filled with fun and learning, thanks to the fantastic staff. Don Palmer, Camp Director, who has been with BGCG for 32 years, continued to lead with passion and good humor. Mike Gerald, Waterfront Director, with over 20 years of experience, once again made lakefront activities unforgettable. Otis Bellamy, Program Director, in his first summer at
“Camp Simmons is the quintessential summer camp for kids.”
—Lacey P.
Camp Simmons, focused on academic enrichment and Summer Brain Gain, keeping young minds sharp. The dedicated counselors and counselorsin-training (CITs) also helped to create a safe and joyful environment that parents loved. Because parents know their children are happy and secure, Camp Simmons is heralded as a beloved summer tradition “where kids can be kids.”
“Thank you all for the memories you help build. Your team never fails when caring for our children. For that and so much more, we thank you!”
—Fátima & Henry T.
Letter From a Parent
“As a single mother, it can be challenging to juggle all the responsibilities and ensure that my children are well taken care of. Trusting others with my kids is never easy, but from the moment my daughter joined your summer program, I knew she was in good hands.
I cannot thank you enough for providing her with such a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. She felt truly accepted by her peers and the staff, and that meant the world to both of us. The impact of your program on her confidence and happiness is truly remarkable.
I feel blessed to have found such a wonderful place for her to thrive.” —Tashaya G.
Teen Camp
34 teens participated in Camp and built lifelong friendships.
Thanks to its dedicated staff, Teen Camp attendees had a fantastic summer. Ryan Accurso, Teen Camp Director, brought energy and enthusiasm, creating engaging activities for all. Juan Casteneda BGCG Counselor, with over a decade of experience, inspired teens with his energetic soccer coaching and cooking classes, combining fun and skill-building.
“The
Nancy Santos, BGCG Counselor, also played a key role, connecting with teens and fostering a welcoming atmosphere. Together, the team created an unforgettable experience filled with a multitude of field trips, creative team building activities, and fun outdoor adventure, making Teen Camp a highlight of the summer.
teens are able to socialize with kids they normally don’t interact with, all while having fun.”—Gabriella C.
“Another awesome summer in the books, and as always thanks for always going above and beyond. Looking forward to Summer 25'!”
—Tatiana M.
