WEST VALLEY FAMILY YMCA
2018 Summer Day Camp Program Guide REGISTER NOW!
ASSISTANCE Financial Aid available. We also accept CCRC at most locations.
EXPO Camp! Brand NEW Sports & Specialty Camps! Full & Half Day!
FREE!
Swim Lessons included for K-2 graders in Discovery & Adventure Day Camps!
WE ARE ACCREDITED!
WE ARE PROUD TO BE ACCREDITED BY THE AMERICAN CAMP ASSOCIATION!
What is ACA accreditation? As camp directors, accreditation provides us with education on key aspects of camp operation, program quality, and the health and safety of children and staff. Accreditation establishes up to 300 health and safety standards that include needed policies, procedures, and practices for which we are responsible for ongoing implementation. Accreditation lets the public know that our camp meets industry-accepted and government-recognized standards. What’s the difference between state licensing and accreditation? Accreditation is voluntary. When we chose to become accredited, we assured families that we have made the commitment to a safe, nurturing environment for their children. State licensing is mandatory, but varies from state to state. ACA accreditation standards are recognized by courts of law and government regulators as the standards of the camp industry. ACA accreditation goes beyond basic requirements for health, cleanliness, and food service into specific areas of programming, emergency management plans, and health care. ACA accredited camp experiences allow children to grow, create, share, and have fun in a safe, structured environment. Former ACA CEO Tom Holland says, “Right now, the best evidence of a camp's commitment to your child's safety and growth in the summer is American Camp Association accreditation." ACA accredited camp programs are dedicated to the well-being of the children that participate. Is your child spending their summer with an ACA accredited program? If the answer is no, ask “Why not?”
RAISE THE BAR
AT THE Y: OUR FOCUS IS YOUTH DEVELOPMENT Youth Development is the social-emotional, cognitive and physical processes that all youth uniquely experience from birth to career. A successful development process fulfills children and teens innate need to be loved, spiritually grounded, educated, competent and healthy.
Belonging We are a place where kids feel safe, welcomed and can express their individuality through: Autonomous Choices Rituals and Traditions Daily Activity Framework Inclusion
Achievement We help children realize their passions, talents and potential through: Achievement Activities Skill Development Camp Readers Program
Relationships We demonstrate the role positive relationships play in the well-being of a child through: Staff-children relationships and role modeling Peer-to-Peer Friend-making Parent Engagement
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CAMP LEADERSHIP CHRISTOPHER JEFFERSON Senior Director, Child Care and Community 818 668 2611 ChristopherJefferson@ymcaLA.org CHARREL CRYER Program Director, Child Care 818 668 2622 CharrelCryer@ymcaLA.org KIM JOHNSON Program Director, Child Care 818 223 9528 KimJohnson@ymcaLA.org CASEY WEST-BANKS Resident Camp Director Associate Executive Director (EVY) 818 763 5126 CaseyWestBanks@ymcaLA.org Area: Resident Camp MINERVA CONTRERAS Child Care/Day Camp Records, Accounting (Transfers & Cancellations), Billing Issues, Financial Assistance, Enrollment Assistance 818 668 2608| MinervaContreras@ymcaLA.org CAMP DIRECTORS Charrel Cryer Kim Johnson Minerva Contreras Yamileth Catalan Rachel Hernandez Shunta Hutchins Erika Gutierrez Monique Otero
Welcome to our Day Camp! There is no place like Summer with the YMCA – A home away from home where kids laugh, learn, explore and grow, while creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime. Kids discover not just the wonders of Summer, but the joy of exploring their unique traits, talents and interests and the power of sharing their strengths and skills to benefit the group. That’s why more than 600 kids in the West Valley area attend our Summer Day Camp programs; to belong, to achieve and to build relationships. ABOUT US OUR CAUSE At the YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. OUR MISSION The YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles puts Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. OUR FOCUS We believe that to bring about meaningful change in individuals and communities, we must be focused and accountable. That’s why we focus our work in three key areas that are fundamental to strengthening community: Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Our financial assistance program ensures that everyone can participate in YMCA programs, despite the inability to pay. Financial assistance is provided through our Annual Support Campaign and donors like you. Please ask for more details and an application. OUR STAFF At the YMCA, caring and professional role models are committed to helping kids build confidence and character. The loyalty, dedication and professionalism of our highly trained staff is extraordinary. We count on our staff to meet strict YMCA qualifications and pass an extensive background check. All YMCA staff in our Summer Day Camp programs are 18 years or older and have been trained or certified in the following: Positive Discipline Emergency Procedures Field Trip Procedures Safety Practices First Aid and CPR Leadership Skills
Positive Role Modeling Group Building Character Development Ages and Stages Risk Management Child Abuse Prevention
SAFETY
Parents look to the YMCA for a safe and secure environment where children can learn practical social skills and develop positive values. Our reputation for consistency and safety, as well as our focus on youth development, gives parents the confidence they need to trust us with their children. To ensure the well-being of each child, we review our health and safety policies on an ongoing basis. Our low 1:12 staff-to-child ratio allows our staff to give each child the attention and guidance necessary to create a positive and safe environment. In addition, for all trips to the swimming pool, beach or any venue with standing water, we drop down to a 1:6 staff-to-child ratio.
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DISCOVERY CAMP Grades K-5 Day Camp at the YMCA | On-Site Enrichment/No Travel
June 11 - August 10 (9 weekly sessions) Monday-Friday | 8:00am – 6:00pm For children entering grades K-5 Registration Fee: K-5 Discovery Camp: Sibling Discount:
$50 per child (one-time annual fee, not discountable) $170 per child, per session 10% discount for the additional children, per session
Grades K-5 Day Camp on local school campuses | Weekly Travel and/or Outside Enrichment Grade 6-9 Good Times Camp on local school campuses | Weekly Travel
Financial Assistance is available for qualifying families for all camp programs
June 11 - August 17 (10 weekly sessions) Monday-Friday | 7:00am - 6:00pm For children entering grades K-9 Registration Fee: K-5 Adventure Camps: 6-9 Good Times Camps: Sibling Discount:
$50 per child (one-time annual fee, not discountable) $185 per child, per session $195 per child, per session 10% discount for the additional children, per session
We proudly accept CCRC at some of our locations. Contact us for more details.
LAUSD sites, 9 weeks, June 11- August 10. LVUSD Sites, 9 weeks, June 18 - August 17. Bay Laurel Elementary & Hamlin Charter Academy runs 7:00 am to 6:30 pm on all days of operation. Bay Laurel Elementary & Hamlin Charter Academy only accepts children entering K-5 grade (no Good Times Camps at these locations). Good Times Camp is for children entering grade 6-9 and takes place at Woodlake, Pomelo and Vanalden camp sites only.
Discovery Camp (Non-Travel) WEST VALLEY FAMILY YMCA 18810 Vanowen Street, Reseda, CA 91335 818 774 2840
Adventure Camps (Travels) Good Times Camps (Travels) WOODLAKE ELEMENTARY COMMUNITY CHARTER 23231 Hatteras Street, Woodland Hills, CA 91367 818 643 0065 POMELO COMMUNITY CHARTER 7633 March Avenue, West Hills, CA 91304 818 665 9794 VANALDEN AVENUE ELEMENTARY 19019 Delano Street, Reseda, CA 91335 818 996 8564
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Adventure Camps (Travels) No Good Times Camp Programs at location BAY LAUREL ELEMENTARY 24740 Paseo Primario, Calabasas, CA 91302 818 223 9528 HAMLIN CHARTER ACADEMY NEW DAY CAMP FOR 2018! 22627 Hamlin St, West Hills, CA 91307 818 214 9779
EXPO Camp (Non-Travel) Specialty Camps in Sports & Arts/Science JUSTICE STREET ACADEMY CHARTER NEW SPECIALTY DAY CAMP FOR 2018! 23350 Justice St, West Hills, CA 91304 818 223 9528 EXPO Camp is 100% on site at Justice Street Academy Charter School and does not include field trips and trips to the pool. See the next page for details on this exciting NEW Camp!
NEW! EXPO CAMPS! Specialty Day Camps! At Justice Street Academy Charter School, West Hills
Grades K-5 Expo Specialty Camp On Site Enrichment | No Travel
NEW CAMPS!
We offer a variety of specialty and sports camps that focus on particular programming for campers of all ages. Our unique summer camp focuses on a variety of specialized topics designed for children ages 4 years and 9 months to children enrolling into 5th grade in the fall. Campers will participate in subjects to explore new activities and potential hobbies for the future. EXPO Camp is 100% On-Site and does not include field trips, swimming trips or swim lessons.
Session 4: July 2 - July 6 Basketball or Sculpting
June 11 - August 10 (9 weekly sessions) Monday-Friday | 7:00am – 6:00pm
Basketball: Our basketball week will have your child passing, shooting and dribbling like an all-star!
Extended Care: 7:00am-9:00am & 4:00pm-6:00pm
For children entering grades K-5
Sculpting: From handling clay to paper mâché, campers will sculpt their own unique creations for our camp art exhibit!
Location: 23350 Justice St, West Hills, CA 91304
Session 5: July 9 - July 13 Hockey Heroes or Where the Wild Things Are
Registration Fee: $50 per child (one-time annual fee, not discountable)
Hockey Heroes: Develop mental skills, physical strength and sportsmanship while learning the basics of field hockey.
Session Fees: $175 per child, per session FULL DAY $115 per child, per session HALF DAY AM (7:00am-12:30pm) $115 per child, per session HALF DAY PM (12:30pm-6:00pm)
Where the Wild Things Are: Learn about nature & the wild, meet scaly guest & recreate ecosystems! This is planet earth.
Session 6: July 16 - July 20 Summer X Games or Science Spectacular
Sibling Discount: 10% discount for the additional children, per session
Summer X Games: Are you the total athlete? Obstacle courses, playground games, traditional sports & sportsmanship awaits!
Session 1: June 11 - June 15 Dance & Cheer or Space Exploration Dance & Cheer: E-X-P-O. Let’s Go! Learn dance & cheer moves; finish off the week with a choreographed routine.
Science Spectacular: Watch it explode & change form! From actions to reactions, learn what it takes to become an Extreme Scientist! All materials are safe, common household items.
Session 7: July 23 – July 27 Space Exploration: Blast off & let your imaginations soar as we Tennis & Racquet Sports or Architects & Engineers
Tennis & Racquet Sports: Learn the basics of tennis and be introduced to badminton, ping pong, & other racquet sports.
learn about the solar system, planets, stars & galaxy.
Session 2: June 18 - June 22 Batter-Up Baseball/Softball or Picasso Painters
Architects & Engineers: STEM! Get hands-on practice designing and constructing your own skyscrapers, rockets, & machines!
Batter-Up Baseball/Softball: Step up the plate & join the team! Practice your skills for our end-of-week Summer Series Title!
Session 8: July 30 – August 3 “Go for the Green” Golfing or Carnival Creation
Picasso Painters: Learn the magic of water color, acrylic, tempera, and other mediums in camp this week.
“Go for the Green” Golf: Hole in one! Master your putting skills & perfect your golf swing! Create your own Mini-Golf Course!
Session 3: June 25 - June 29 Soccer Stars or Hollywood Premier
Carnival Creation: It’s time for Carnival! Use your creativity and arts skills to design booths, games, and decorations.
Soccer Stars: Go for the GOAL! Whether you are a beginner or experienced pro, everyone can get their kicks at soccer camp.
Session 9: August 6 – August 10 Martial Arts or Expo! Expo! Read All About It
Hollywood Premiere: Lights, camera, action! Explore the world of drama and film in camp as our campers produce a movie.
No-Contact Mixed Martial Arts: This week you’ll learn the mental, physical and emotional discipline of Judo and Karate from a world class martial arts instructor.
This page is intended to give you a SNAPSHOT of our new specialty day camp: EXPO Camp! Before enrolling, please see our most recent edition of our Summer Day Camp Parent Handbook and 2018 EXPO Camp Highlights Flyer, for full program details.
Expo! Expo! Read All About It: This just in, EXPO is need of journalists, photographers, and news broadcasters of all ages! Learn how to write, edit and publish your own stories and photos in the EXPO Camp Yearbook. Join the Expo news crew!
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DISCOVER SUMMER!
Here is what we have to offer for children entering K - 12th grade
DISCOVERY CAMP FOR KIDS ENTERING GRADES K-5
Discovery Camp is an American Camp Association ACCREDITED organized day camp that provides youth with supervised activities that teach core values, conflict resolution, and leadership skills. Children will enjoy the summer making new friends and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Daily activities will include arts and crafts, wonders of wilderness, group games, specialty activities, reading enrichment and camp opening and closing ceremonies. Our specialty activities include STEM activities, music and drama, cooking classes and special guests. Children will also get to enjoy swim lessons (for grades K-2) and swimming weekly. Join us for a summer you’ll never forget!
ADVENTURE CAMPS FOR KIDS ENTERING GRADES K-5
Our Adventure Camps are American Camp Association ACCREDITED organized day camps like no other. Kids will be active and engaged with our full-day, theme-based curriculum to capture their attention and build a love for learning. Add the fun of field trips, enrichment and water days, and parents will be thrilled with the stories their children share each day. Having peace of mind, knowing that your children are cared for in one of our off-site school-based facilities, makes it even better! Top that off with arts and crafts, skill development, sports and games, group time, STEM and all the traditional activities we knew and loved growing up. Come and experience what a little creativity, innovation and ingenuity can produce.
GOOD TIMES CAMP FOR KIDS ENTERING GRADES 6-9
Welcome to the new and improved Good Times Camps, formerly known as Teen Camp! Our Good Times Camps are American Camp Association ACCREDITED organized day camps and they are the perfect experience for your older youth, entering 6th-9th grade this fall. Through field trips, excursions and on-site activities, Good Times Camps participants will discover who they are and develop the social and leaderships skills they need to be successful and productive adults. Good Times Camps are just another pit stop on their journey towards success. By the end of the program, participants will feel empowered to be leaders in their communities today and the leaders of the world tomorrow. Participants will build up their character, learn to work as a team and develop their creativity.
DAY CAMP COUNSELOR-IN-TRAINING PROGRAM June 11 - August 10 (9 weekly sessions) FOR OLDER YOUTH ENTERING GRADES 10-12
The YMCA offers an experience for youth entering grades 10-12 that are too old for Day Camp and too young to work as a Camp Counselor. C.I.T.’s must apply and have an interview in order to be accepted into the program. C.I.T.’s gain valuable leadership skills, assist the camp staff in activities with children and have fun too! C.I.T.’s are always supervised by a paid YMCA staff member and are never left alone with children. The CIT program is only offered at our Discovery Camp. The C.I.T. program has a weekly session enrollment fee. Once accepted into the program, the parent must complete a enrollment packet for the C.I.T. Registration Fee: Session Fee (if approved):
$50 per child (one-time annual fee, not discountable) $75 per session
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My son loves the Y! It is like home!
THE BEST TIME EVER!
Themes, Field Tips and Highlights (if applicable to your program) DISCOVERY CAMP JUNE 11 - AUGUST 10, 2018 (9 WEEKLY SESSIONS) Are you READY for summer? Get SET, because the West Valley Family YMCA is ready for CAMP! Discovery Camp provides youth with organized activities that teach core values, conflict resolution, and leadership skills. A typical camp day includes arts and crafts, wonders of wilderness, reading enrichment and field games. Weekly swimming, STEM activities and cooking projects are also part of our line-up. ACA Accredited!
DISCOVERY CAMP HIGHLIGHTS
Grades: Locations: Hours/Days: Fees:
Session
Theme
Highlight
Session 1
Ready, Set, Go!
Video Game Truck
Session 2
Sports of All Sorts
Giant Soccer Game
Session 3
A Jungle Book Story Safari BBQ Cookout
Session 4
Creepy Crawlers
Critter Squad
Children entering grades K-5 West Valley Family YMCA 8:00 am-6:00 pm, M-F $170 per session (10% sibling discount available)
Session 5
STEM Academy
Cardboard Challenge
Session 6
Island Adventure
Dance Party with DJ!
Session 7
California Road Trip Bubble-Mania
ADVENTURE CAMPS JUNE 11 - AUGUST 17, 2018 (10 WEEKLY SESSIONS) Summer, here we come! Our Adventure Camps are located at local elementary schools throughout the West Valley and are designed with your child in mind. Sessions includes enrichment, skill building, fitness, sports and games, reflections, STEM, literacy and group time. Weekly swimming and weekly visitors or excursions/field trips included in each session. ACA Accredited!
Session 8
Flashback Frenzy
Talent Show
Session 9
Best. Time. Ever.
End of Summer Jam!
Grades: Locations:
Hours/Days: Fees:
ADVENTURE CAMPS HIGHLIGHTS
Children entering grades K-5 Woodlake Elementary School (No Session 10) Pomelo Elementary School (No Session 10) Vanalden Elementary School (No Session 10) Hamlin Elementary School (No Session 10) Bay Laurel Elementary School (Closed Session 1 and Open Session 10) 7:00 am—6:00 pm, M-F Bay Laurel closes at 6:30 pm $185 per session (10% sibling discount available)
GOOD TIMES CAMP JUNE 10 - AUGUST 10, 2018 (9 WEEKLY SESSIONS) Let the GOOD TIMES roll! Welcome to the new and improved Good Times Camps, taking place at the same locations as your favorite Adventure Camps (with the exception of Bay Laurel & Hamlin—there is no Good Times Camp at these two locations). Weekly field trips, excursions, visitors and swimming await. Come and discover who you are by developing new skills and making new friends. ACA Accredited!
Session
Theme
Highlight
Session 1
Ready, Set, Go!
Video Game Truck
Session 2
Farm, Sweet Farm
Underwood Farms
Session 3
A Jungle Book Story
Scooter’s Jungle
Session 4
Creepy Crawlers
Critter Squad
Session 5
STEM Academy
CA Science Center
Session 6
Island Adventure
Seaside Lagoon
Session 7
California Road Trip
Bubble-Mania
Session 8
Flashback Frenzy
Kids World
Session 9
Best. Time. Ever.
End of Summer Party
Session 10
Party at The Bay!
Pancakes & Pajamas
GOOD TIMES CAMPS HIGHLIGHTS
Grades: Locations:
Older children entering grades 6-9 Woodlake Elementary School Pomelo Elementary School Vanalden Elementary School Hours/Days: 7:00 am—6:00 pm, M-F Fees: $195 per session (10% sibling discount available) * This program is NOT available at Bay Laurel Elementary School, Hamlin Elementary School, Justice Elementary or at Discovery Camp. Please note that all field trips, vendors and visitors are subject to change and/or are subject to cancellation by the YMCA, without notice, for all programs listed above. All camps are closed on July 4.
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Session
Trip #1
Trip/Vendor #2
Session 1
Video Game Truck
Blast City Laser Tag
Session 2
Mountasia
Annenberg Beach
Session 3
Pacific Park at the Pier
Hike at Hansen Dam
Session 4
Farmer’s Market
Summer Luau & Pizza Party
Session 5
LA Sparks at Staples Center Annenberg Beach
Session 6
Mulligan’s Fun Center
Virtual Reality Workshop
Session 7
Seaside Lagoon Waterpark
California Science Center
Session 8
Aquarium of the Pacific
Annenberg Beach
Session 9
Castle Park Miniature Golf
BBQ at Lake Balboa Park
SWIM TESTING SWIM LESSONS AQUATIC FUN SWIM LESSONS Included for children entering grades K-2
SWIM TESTING Last 2 Saturdays in May Every Saturday in June First 2 Saturdays in July RATIOS: Throughout the summer we will attend the swimming pool and may also attend other aquatic venues, such as the beach, the waterpark, etc. (for programs that travel). Our ratios for all pool and aquatic venue trips is 1 adult for every 6 children. We reduce our ratios to ensure the safety of everyone. SWIM LESSONS/NON-SWIMMERS: Children entering grades K-2 in the fall of 2018 are not required to take or pass a swim test, unless the parent wants their child to be able to swim freely in both the shallow and deep end of the pool, with their camp counselor (staff) and group. Children in grades K-2 who take and pass the swim test, will be classified as swimmers and will be subject to the guidelines in the below “Swimming/Swimmers� subsection. For children in this grade category (K-2) who either do not take a swim test (because they cannot swim, yet) or who attempt to take a swim test but do not pass the test, will be classified as non-swimmers. FOR 2018: For this summer, children entering grades K-2 in the fall, who are classified as a non-swimmers be enrolled in
a 30 minute swim lesson to take place during the program day while the child is in the day camp program. For returning families, this is a similar structure to the previous summers. For new families, we are proud to offer this added benefit at no extra cost to you. Children will have a 30 minute swim lesson each session that a pool day is scheduled. This will happen at the West Valley Family YMCA and the children will be given their lesson by a trained and certified YMCA swim instructor, with support from their Camp Counselor who will be in the water with them. Unless your child passes the swim test, there is no other swim time provided for children entering grades K-2 in the fall. It is important for all children to feel safe around water, as a majority of the earth is made up of water. Please encourage your child to participate in swim lessons, as this is a lifelong skill. Children in this age group (K-2) who pass the swim test are not required to be in swim lessons and may enjoy free swim during the program. Children K-2 who are already enrolled in swim lessons, but are not yet able to pass a swim test, will still participate in swim lessons during the program. The YMCA will do their best to place the child in a swim lesson that best matches
their swim level, although this cannot always be guaranteed. This is dependent upon the availability of swim instructor and the number of children matched for each swim level. SWIMMING/ SWIMMERS/CHILDREN WHO MEET THE HEIGHT REQUIREMENT: Children of any grade/age who are able to pass a swim test will be classified as swimmers and will be able to swim in both the shallow and deep end of the pool with their camp counselor (staff) and group. Children who are entering grades 3-9 in the fall of 2018 are not eligible for swim lessons as a part of the summer day camp program. For these children, they have two options: Option one (1) take and pass a swim test, which would allow the child to swim in both the shallow and deep end of the swimming pool with their camp counselor (staff) and group. This would also allow the child to swim up the surf line on a beach field trip (Only Good Times Camp has field trips to the beach). Option two (2): Children entering grades 3-9 who opt not to take a swim test or who attempt to take a swim test but do not pass will be classified as non-swimmers. In this case, the child would only be allowed to play/swim in the shallow end of the pool. There is an additional requirement for 3-9 grade children to play/swim in the shallow end of the pool. These children must be able to step into the pool, with their feet planted on the bottom of the pool. At this point, the water may not rise above the child’s armpits; meaning, they must be able to safely stand-up in the pool. If your child is in 3-9 grade and they are classified as a non-swimmer and are too short to meet this height requirement, please contact a Program Director in the Program Department to discuss options for your child. Children classified as swimmers are not required to meet this height requirement. SWIM TESTING: The YMCA classifies children as “swimmers” or “non-swimmers” for our summer programs. The YMCA will no longer provide swim testing during the summer day camp program. All swim testing will be conducted either prior to the start of the summer program or on select weekends after summer has started. Parents will need to make arrangements their children to be at the YMCA during one of our swim testing dates. Swim testing is only required if you would like for your child to swim in the deep end of the pool or if your child does not meet the height requirements for the shallow end of the pool, but is able to swim. The YMCA defines “deep end” as the level of water in the pool that, once your child has their feet planted on the bottom of the pool, reaches above your child’s armpits. The “deep end” is based upon the height of a child and not necessary defined by the depth of the swimming pool. In order for a child to swim in water that rises above their armpits, they must be swim tested and pass the swim test. If you prefer for your child to remain in the “shallow end”, a swim test is not required, unless they do not meet the height requirements for the shallow end of the pool. The YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles defines swim testing as follows: Children are to be tested by the Lifeguard as to
ability before attending an aquatics venue for the summer. A child classified as a swimmer must be able to swim a distance of 75 feet without touching the bottom or side of a pool and tread water for one (1) minute. If a child is not tested, they are to be classified as a non-swimmer; if child is classified as non-swimmer, swim test is not needed. The results of the swim test must be recorded on the “Swim Test Results Form”. The camp director must have this form on every child listed as a swimmer while at an aquatic venue. The swim test results will be given to each camp director so that they are aware of who is classified as a swimmer. All other children not on the list will be classified, by default, as a non-swimmer. SWIM TEST DATES AND LOCATION Location: WEST VALLEY FAMILY YMCA POOL Check in with Swim Test Lifeguard 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm Last 2 Saturdays in May Every Saturday in June First 2 Saturdays in July AQUATIC VENUE VISITS: Throughout the summer, the program may have field trips to different water venues, such as waterparks and the beach. Our ratios of 1:6 are maintained at all field trips where there is a body of water or where the children will engaged in aquatic activities. Only our Good Times Camp goes to the beach during the summer. Swimmers will be allowed to go into the ocean up the surf line and non-swimmers will be able to go into the ocean up to their knees. We do not take our elementary school programs to the beach. Please see the activities calendars and highlight reel for scheduled aquatic and swimming field trips. Please note that the activities calendar, field trips and highlight reels are subject to change without prior notice. WATER PLAY ON OUR TURF (SPLASH ZONE): This summer, we will be offering swim lessons for K-2 graders in lieu of our traditional Splash Zone. We will not be setting up a Splash Zone this summer. Children will either be engaged in swim lessons (K-2 graders) or free swim (3-9 graders). ADDITIONAL NOTES: If your child does not want to get in the pool on a scheduled pool or aquatic day, we will provide light activities for them during the swim or aquatic activity time, such as arts and crafts, coloring, card games board games, trivia, etc. We are not scheduled to attend the pool each session. Typically, the last session of the program, we do not attend the pool or any aquatic venues. For Bay Laurel, we may not attend the pool or any aquatic venues for session 9 and session 10.
My child has more selfconfidence.
PROCEDURES AND PAYMENTS
Highlights Only—For full list of Policies and Procedures, see our Parent Handbook Weekly Sessions 1-5
Dates
Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 4 Session 5
June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 – July 9 –
– June 15 – June 22 – June 29 July 6 (4 Days) July 13
Draft Date & Deadline for Cancellations or Changes
Weekly Sessions 6-10
Dates
Draft Date & Deadline for Cancellations or Changes
June 4 June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2
Session 6 Session 7 Session 8 Session 9 Session 10
July 16 – July 20 July 23 – July 27 July 30 – August 3 August 6 – August 10 August 13 – August 17
July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30 August 6
A FEW THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND BEFORE YOU SIGN-UP! PAY BALANCES ONLINE & SIGN-UP FOR ADDITIONAL SESSIONS: Once a child has been officially enrolled in the registration fee (meaning, this fee has been paid for the child), you can enroll in additional sessions online. Please see the “HOW TO ENROLL IN SUMMER DAY CAMP ONLINE” instructions in the most recent copy of the West Valley Family YMCA School-Age Programs Parent Handbook. Please note that online enrollment requires a full-payment at the time that you enroll. Children must be on the roster to attend camp. We will only accept payments at the YMCA or online. Remember, in order to enroll online, you must first be enrolled/pay the $50 registration fee. Registration fees may only be paid in-person at the YMCA. We will no longer accept registration packets and payment authorization forms at the camp site. Children must be at least 4-years-and-9-months and must be entering grades K-9th grade in the fall of 2018 in order to be eligible to attend our Summer Day Camp Programs. All program sites will be closed on Wednesday, July 4, 2018. The YMCA does not prorate for this week (see FAQ’s and Parent Handbook for more details). The YMCA does not offer drop-in enrollment. The YMCA Summer Day Camp Program is offered in weekly sessions and the program does not have daily or partial week enrollment. The YMCA does not prorate for children who start mid-week, regardless of how many days are left in the session. Our NEW EXPO Specialty Camp does offer half-day AM & PM options (please see page 5). When parents sign their child up for the YMCA Summer Day Camp Programs, parents are required to pay a $50 registration fee for each child that they are enrolling, and this payment must be made in the form of cash or credit (unfortunately, we do not accept checks of any kind). After paying the registration fee, parents may register their child for a Summer Day Camp Program session/ sessions using one of the following two options: (1) pay for the Summer Day Camp Program sessions upfront and in advance using cash or credit, either in-person at the YMCA or online or (2) reserve the Summer Day Camp Program sessions by setting up an Automatic Payment Plan using a credit card account (unfortunately, we can no longer process electronic funds transfers from a checking or savings account for summer day camp). If you are reserving a space, you must do it in person; we are not able to take reservations online. Enrolling online will require a full payment upfront and immediately. Session fees will be deducted for each session on the payment draft & deadline for cancellations or changes date, listed above in the yellow chart (payment draft date & deadline for cancellations or changes is one week in advance of each session – the draft will happen at 12:01 am on Mondays). Parents will be subject to a $25 service charge for all returned items due to insufficient funds; enrollment may also be cancelled. If cancelled due to insufficient, a parent can re-enroll their child if space is available. Although not recommended, parents can pay session-by-session (week-to-week), before, on or after the payment draft date & deadline for cancellations or changes, in-person, at the YMCA or online. However, please understand that this method of payment is not a reservation and is subject to space availability at the time that the full payment is made for a session. There is no pre-registration or reservation (saved space) for parents who chose to pay session-by-session (week-to-week) Before signing up, parents must know their school district schedule; when school ends and resumes. The following dates of program correspond with the dates the school districts are on summer break: Los Angeles Unified School District: Monday, June 11 - Friday, August 10 Las Virgenes Unified School District: Monday, June 18 - Friday, August 17
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Important Parent Information
Why are your day camps accredited and not licensed? Aren’t some of your sites licensed during the school year for before and after school care? Our day camps are accredited through the American Camp Association (ACA). Accreditation is voluntary. When the YMCA chose to become accredited, the YMCA assured families that they have made the commitment to a safe, nurturing environment for their children. State licensing is mandatory, but varies from state to state. ACA Accreditation standards are recognized by courts of law and government regulators as the standards of the camp industry. ACA Accreditation goes beyond basic requirements for health, cleanliness, and food service into specific areas of programming, emergency management plans, and health care. During the school year, the YMCA operates state-licensed before and after school programs. During day camp seasons (fall, winter, spring and summer sessions), the YMCA voluntarily removes these camp dates from its child care operation plan and opts to instead operate programs under the American Camp Association accreditation. What is the difference between Discovery Camp, Adventure Camp, and Good Times Camp? Essentially, these programs are the same with some differences, yet they all fall under the supervision of the Child Care and Community Department. Discovery Camp is operated at our YMCA branch. It operates from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and is a non-traveling camp, meaning, there are no field trips off-site or via bus. Adventure Camps (did you notice it says camps, not camp?) is offered off-site at four of the YMCA’s community elementary school locations. Each Adventure Camp runs the same; the only difference is the location and the days of the week when the camp has a off-site field trip or off-site swimming day. Adventure Camp has off-site field trips and off-site swimming, via the bus, and operates from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm (except for Bay Laurel and Hamlin, which operate until 6:30 pm). Good Times Camp is run at three of the YMCA’s six partner elementary schools (not operated at Bay Laurel, Justice or Hamlin). It is designed for middle school children and has more weekly field trips than our Adventure Camps. The question for parents to ask if whether they and their child are ready for field trips or not and which location is the best match. Do you have online registration? Kind of. Once a parent enrolls their child into the day camp by paying the $50 registration fee, parents can enroll their child into day camp online and pay balances online. Paying the registration fees means that we have the child’s complete registration on file, as this is required to pay the registration fee; therefore, parents can go online to enroll in additional sessions or pay off a balance. Parents can also go online and print tax receipts, view sales receipts, etc. For information on how to access your account online, see the most recent copy of the West Valley Family YMCA School-Age Programs Parent Handbook. Are the enrollment packets available online Yes, enrollment packets are available online. For your convenience, the YMCA has slimmed down the enrollment packet from 26 pages to just 12 pages. The enrollment packet is also available as a Smart Form that parents can type into. Tell me a little bit more about your refund policy. Parents may request a refund for the summer day camp programs using the Summer Day Camp Cancellation & Exit Form. There is a $25 refund fee for all approved refunds that will be deducted from the total refund amount approved. The $25 refund fee is per session and per child. If a parent is requesting a refund for several sessions and/or for more than one child, and the refund approved, a $25 refund fee will be assessed for each approved session and for each child. The refund request form is exactly what it states, a request. Completion of the refund request form does not guarantee a refund. The draft date & deadline for cancellations and changes (listed on most recent copy of the West Valley Family YMCA School-Age Programs Parent Handbook and on page 10 of this guide) is also the deadline to request a refund for each session. If a parent requests a refund for a session or sessions and it is after the draft date & deadline for cancellations and change for that session, the refund will not be approved under any circumstance. For example, the final payment for Session 1 is due June 5. June 5 is also the deadline to request a refund or to make changes for Session 1. The YMCA does not prorate, issue credits or refunds for missed days of session or late registration. The YMCA is not responsible for personal schedule conflicts. The YMCA will not accept deposits, partial payments, or split payments for the summer day camp program or any other programs. The YMCA will allow parents to register after the payment draft date & deadline for cancellations or changes by walk-in and/or online if space is available. If your program is closed on July 4, why is the session is not prorated? Please remember, that the YMCA is a non-profit organization and our general expenses do not change session-to-session. The rent, insurances, bus and transportation fees, taxes, etc., do not change just because we have closed for a day. We staff our programs weekly, and do not prorate for shortened weeks. Why aren't the younger children allowed to swim in the swimming pool during the program? Due to the height requirements and ages of younger children, the YMCA is unable to provide them with recreational swim time in the pool. The YMCA requires children to meet certain height requirements for recreational swimming (see swim testing information on page 8 and 9). Because the YMCA no longer provides the Splash Zone area (due to concerns about water usage), the YMCA now provides swimming lessons for children entering grades K-2 this fall, at no additional charge. Some restrictions do apply. Please see Page 8 and 9 of this program guide for more information or see the most recent copy of the West Valley Family YMCA School-Age Programs Parent Handbook. Do you offer a multi-child discount? Yes, the YMCA does! Once a parent enrolls on child into a session, parents may enroll up to three additional children and receive a 10% discount. The children must be enrolled in the same weekly session, but the program can be different. For example, if two children enroll in session 1, one child in Discovery Camp and one child in Good Times Camp, the 2nd child would receive the 10% sibling discount on the child in the lowest costing session. Even though they are separate programs, the session dates are the same. The discount for additional children is only for children in the same family and household; additionally, they must be either facility or program members on the same account. Families may only apply one discount towards summer day camp. Discounts cannot be combined (for example, family cannot combine financial assistance and the sibling discount). What if I need to transfer from one session to another? A transfer request is a request for a change of a child’s enrollment that allows the parent to transfer (or switch) the same child from one or more sessions to another. This can be convenient for some families, as scheduling conflicts may arise during the summer. Parents must complete a Summer Day Camp Transfer & Changes Form and identify which session or sessions the child is transferring from and to. Transfers are subject to space availability at the day camp program the child is transferring to. Parents may make one transfer per summer, per child, for free of charge. Any additional transfers after the first free transfer is $10 per session, and per child. The $10 fee is due at the time of the transfer request and is contingent upon whether or not space is available and the request is made on or prior to the draft date & deadline for cancellations or changes. The deadline for a transfer request for a specific session or sessions is the same as the draft date & deadline for cancellations or changes (listed in the most recent copy of the West Valley Family YMCA School-Age Programs Parent Handbook and on page 10 of this guide). All transfer requests must be submitted by 10:00 pm on or before the draft date & deadline for cancellations or changes for the session the parent is requesting change.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Important Parent Information Continued
Does the YMCA provide lunch and daily snack each day? Children will need to bring their own sack lunch each day. Sack lunch should be healthy. Parents should try to avoid packing the 4 C’s: Cookies, Candy, Chips and Cake. Additionally, parents should avoid packing soda pop. The YMCA provides a PM snack each afternoon. Parents are responsible to pack a morning snack. When will the full weekly activity calendars be available? The detailed weekly activity calendars are available now online at our website (www.ymcaLA.org). The detailed weekly activity calendars are only available online; we do not keep hard printed copies at the YMCA or at any program sites. Highlight Reels, which are a snapshot of each day camp program, are available, in hard printed copies, at the YMCA and at all of our program locations. The detailed weekly activity calendar and the highlight reel will show the field trips, vendors, visitors or enrichment for the session, as well as a breakdown of a typical days schedule. The schedule is subject to change without notice. Once day camp has started, detailed weekly activity calendars will only be available in print at the day camp program locations, on a weekly basis. The program that I have signed up for is already full. Do you have waitlists? Yes, there are waitlists, but they are not first come, first serve. The welcome center can add a child’s name to the waitlist. When a space opens up, an email will sent to ALL families on the waitlist. The first family to register for the space (either in person at the Y, or online, if applicable), will receive it the space. In order to register for the space online, you must have online access (which is granted once you have paid the $50 registration fee for day camp). Remember, all payments made online must be paid in full; the online portal does not accept partial payments or reservations. The YMCA does not make phone calls to waitlist families or hold spaces; families need to ensure that they have a valid e-mail on file that is attached to ensure they receive the notification. It is recommended that immediately after joining a camp session waitlist, families check their online account to ensure it is active and to ensure that the password works correctly. Am I allowed to send extra spending money with my child? Most day–to-day expenses are covered by the YMCA through program enrollment fees. Occasionally, the YMCA will attend a field trip or venue where extra spending money would be optional. If this in the case, the camp director will inform parents via signs, notes left at the parent information table at your day camp location. When appropriate, it is also listed on the detailed weekly activity calendar as an optional item in the “What To Bring” section. How are the children grouped? Our ratio is 1 adult staff for every 10-12 children. Children are typically grouped by age/grade, with one staff member for the entire session or season (if feasible). Does my child have to attend every session? No. Parents may sign their child up for any sessions and the sessions do not have to be consecutive. I only need to send my child for a few days a session. Do you prorate? The YMCA believe that in order for children to have the best experience, it must be week long. Unfortunately, the YMCA cannot prorate fees because vendors are prepaid and staff are paid by the week. Tell me a little bit more about the staff. Will the staff consists of teenagers and college students? The YMCA prides itself on finding the best staff possible. We vet our staff using the American Camp Association standards. Our staff team members are trained in CPR and First Aid and are required to attend a 24 hours of orientation and training. This is in addition to the 8 hours they spend learning CPR and First Aid. Most of our staff possess college coursework in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, Sociology, Recreation, Physical Education, Health and Nutrition. Staff are also required to attend Child Abuse Prevention and Positive Discipline trainings. Staff must also be 18 years or older at the time of employment. The YMCA does not guarantee staffing at any location. Staff may move from one site-to-another throughout the summer, as needed and without prior notice. All staff are required to pass a comprehensive background check and clear a live scan for criminal history. Do I have to pay a registration fee for each day camp program my child attends? No. Parents are only required to pay one $50 registration fee per child, per summer, which covers all 2018 summer day camp programs (for example, children transferring from Adventure Camps to Discovery Camp, or vice-versa, do not have to pay another registration fee). Why does the YMCA charge a $50 registration fee per participant? The registration fee covers a number of administrative items for the program, in addition to the purchase of program t-shirts. YMCA administrative costs include office services, marketing and mailings (such as this Program Guide), communication, print and production of documents (such as enrollment packets) and overhead. How do I apply for financial assistance? Financial assistance applications are available for submission. Parents may download and print the financial assistance application from the YMCA website, or pick one up at the Welcome Center. Parents must ensure that they submit their applications early so that they can receive their awarded funds before registration begins. Please note, if a parent is applying for financial assistance, the parent/family cannot register their child until after the application has been processed and approved. If a parent registers before being awarded financial assistance, the YMCA cannot go back in the system and adjust the rate. Will sunscreen be applied to my child throughout the day? The YMCA relies on parents to supply and apply sunscreen to their child before bringing them to day camp and also provide them with a personal supply of sunscreen (preferably a spray can for easy application). For the safety of YMCA staff, the YMCA does not apply sunscreen directly onto children, but provides opportunities for children to apply sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours or before a lengthy outdoor activity. The YMCA staff will teacher younger children how to apply their sunscreen, but will not physically touch them. The YMCA carries very limited amounts of sunscreen on site; parents must remember to send sunscreen with their child each day. If parents do not want sunscreen provided to their child or would like a special type of sunscreen provided, parents must indicate so on the sunscreen notice inside the enrollment package. Parents with children that burn easily, should provide their child with additional protective gear like a hat, t-shirt or rash guard (for swimming) that he or she can wear while participating in outdoor activities. I heard the buses do not have seatbelts. Is this right? Yes, that is correct. Don’t worry, according to the National Safety Council in 1996, school buses are 172 times safer than your family automobile. This is not an exhaustive list of questions, policies, procedures and guidelines. For more information, frequently asked questions, and a full list of guidelines, policies and procedures, please see the most recent copy of the West Valley Family YMCA School-Age Programs Parent Handbook.
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CAMP WHITTLE July 28 - August 4, 2018
RALLY NIGHT! July 19th, 6:00 pm West Valley Family YMCA
OVERNIGHT SUMMER RESIDENT CAMP Summer is a time of freedom, friends and fun! Our Summer Camp programs are designed to provide kids with great experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. Led by trained, nurturing members of our team, your camper will swim, hike, bike, laugh, play, sing and, most importantly, enjoy an unplugged week of nature and fun while staying at YMCA Camp Whittle. Working from a foundation that focuses on building social skills, cabin counselors are carefully selected and trained to support your camper’s journey. “This is the second year my son has been away to camp. The first time, we were all a little nervous, but he had such fun he didn’t want to come home. This year he met old friends, made new ones and had an even better time, if that’s possible! ”The YMCA summer camp experience is special because we provide:
A caring environment for all children Adult role models. Our camp directors, camp counselors and staff model positive, responsible behavior Positive peer interaction. Campers interact responsibly in safe, well-supervised settings Creative activities, such as music, art and drama as well as being in the great outdoors Self-esteem. Our staff and activities make campers feel successful and good about themselves
As we believe all children deserve a chance to experience Summer Camp, limited financial assistance scholarships are also available. Check out all the Summer Camps and activities we offer, and if you have any questions, just give us a call. For more info about the West Valley Family YMCA’s resident camp week at YMCA Camp Whittle, please contact Casey Banks at CaseyBanks@ymcala.org or call him at 818 763 5126. Grades
Program/Options
Entering Grades 3-6 Entering Grades 7-9 Entering Grades 7-9 Entering Grades 10-12 Entering Grades 10-12
YMCA Camp Whittle Camp 101 and 102 Outdoor High Adventure Jr. High Camp Jr. High Traditional Camp High School Traditional Camp Leadership in Training Program 13
Fees Regular/Late Prices $615/$645 $615/$645 $615/$645 $615/$645 $615/$645
Suggested Supplies for the Day Please write your child’s name on all of their personal belongings
Backpack
Hat or Visor
Swimsuit
Change of Clothes
Plastic Bag for Wet Swimsuit and Towel
Water Bottle with Water
Towels Sack Lunch What to leave home: Sun Block SPF 30+
Please see our Parent Handbook for a complete list of items that should be left at home. The YMCA is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Thirty Minutes to Succeed! Camp Readers Makes Literacy Simple and Fun! This summer, the West Valley Family YMCA is participating in an exciting new program called Camp Readers. By including 30 minutes of reading time during our program, the Readers Program shows kids that reading is fun while building general reading skills and increasing their reading confidence.
TYPICAL DAILY SCHEDULE* 7:00 am 9:00 am 9:45 am 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 noon 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 3:30pm 4:00 pm 6:00 pm
AM Extended Care/Child Choices (Supervised Activities & Centers) AM Snack (provided by parent)/Outdoor Recreation Opening Ceremony (Roll Call, Songs, Daily Review) AM Group Activity Time: Group Huddles, Enrichment, Skill Building, Arts and Crafts, Recreation Healthy Living & Youth Fitness Activities Lunch Time/Outdoor Recreation PM Group Activity Time STEM & Camp Readers Daily Specialty Activities PM Snack (provided by YMCA)/Closing Ceremony PM Extended Care/Child Choices (Supervised Indoor & Outdoor Activities) Closing
*Our Discovery Camp does not travel. It is a facility-based, non-travel camp. There are no off-site field trips. Our Discovery Camp has special visitors and vendors throughout the summer. Our Discovery Camp runs on a modified schedule, that may be different than the schedule listed above. Please see our Discovery Camp Highlight Reel for our specific daily schedule for this camp. Our Adventure Camps has off-site field trips and on-site visitors and vendors throughout the summer, once or twice per weekly session. Our Good Times Camps has off-site field trips and on-site visitors and vendors throughout the summer, two to three times per weekly session.
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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
DAY CAMP NEWS BOARD!
We have many summer job opportunities. You must be a minimum of 18 years old, be a high school graduate and enjoy working with children.
HEALTHY KIDS DAY
Candidates are required to have prior experience working with children. College courses related to child development, youth development or recreation are preferred.
Join us for free fun for the entire family! Saturday, April 21, 2019, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm West Valley Family YMCA
Interesting in applying? Pick-up a job application at the West Valley Family YMCA Welcome Center and return it to the front desk.
There will be tons of day camp give-a-ways! Come and sign-up for at least one session and have your $50 registration fee waived for summer day camp!
Part time positions. Interviews this April & May. EOE
WHAT’S NEW FOR 2018?
We’ve made a couple of changes over the past two summers that we think are important for you to know or be refreshed on. Some are more logistical and some you may find really exciting. Take a look!
Our day camps are American Camp Association Accredited! And we are excited about it! Take a look at page 2 of this guide to learn more about what Accreditation means for you and your child.
Our summer programs now offer Swim Lessons for children who are entering grades K-2 in the Fall. See most recent copy of the West Valley Family YMCA School-Age Programs Parent Handbook and page 10-11 of this guide for more details (restrictions apply).
If your child needs to be Swim Tested, we now offer Swim Testing all season long from 12 pm to 2 pm, on the last two Saturdays in May, every Saturday in June and the first two Saturdays in July, at the West Valley Family YMCA Pool. No appointment needed; just show up during the 12 pm to 2 pm window. Child must be swim ready.
We have a new policy to help keep our program days smooth: we now require that children arrive to the day camp site no later than10:30 am, unless prior arrangements are made with your director or campers are required to be at camp earlier for a field trip.
Tired of hand-writing those pesky enrollment packets? We now have Smart Forms to make it easier for your to complete your paperwork.
Please note that a credit card is now required for all session reservations. Unless you intend to pay upfront, or on a session-by-session basis without a reservation, payment must be made via an automatic draft from a credit card account.
For more details on all of the above listed bullets, please see the applicable Parent Handbook.
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WEST VALLEY FAMILY YMCA 18810 VANOWEN STREET, RESEDA, CA 91335 818 774 2840
KICK THE CAN! SODA FREE SUMMER! Our Summer Day Camp programs will be participating in “Soda Free Summer initiative”. Every session we will do an activity to educate the kids about the importance of health, exercise and reducing the consumption of high sugar foods and drinks. As a YMCA program, we have made a pledge to not consume soda and to reduce the consumption of other high sweetened beverages and snacks. Make the pledge and join us! LOCATIONS: (See Page 4 for addresses/phone) 1. WEST VALLEY FAMILY YMCA K-5 Discovery Camp CIT Program 2. VANALDEN ELEMENTARY K-5 Adventure Camp 6-9 Good Times Camp 3. WOODLAKE ELEMENTARY K-5 Adventure Camp 6-9 Good Times Camp 4. POMELO ELEMENTARY K-5 Adventure Camp 6-9 Good Times Camp 5. BAY LAUREL ELEMENTARY K-5 Adventure Camp 6. HAMLIN ELEMENTARY K-5 Adventure Camp 7. JUSTICE ELEMENTARY K-5 EXPO Camp
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6 WEST VALLEY FAMILY YMCA 18810 Vanowen Street, Reseda, CA 91335 P 818 774 2840 F 818 776 0153 www.ymcaLA.org/wv
She can’t wait to see her friends!