29 years of camping, and we're still going strong!
Dear Friends,
We just finished an amazing session of Camp Erutan in East Hampton, NY that marked our 29th year! I have to say this was the best week we have ever had, although Elaine is quick to remind me that I say “this was the best week we have ever had” every year! This is a good thing since if camp didn’t continue getting better and better, I’m not sure it would still exist.
There were many contributing factors to this year’s success. Mary Ryan, owner of the property in EH, graciously greeted all of the campers and invited us to dine with her on her deck at the beginning and end of the session. Scott Chaskey of Quail Hill farm, who introduced us to Mary Ryan, met us on his tractor and not only remembered our returning campers, but he and his interns made a lovely lunch spread for us in the Quail Hill Farm apple orchard. Jim Turner, a local musician, joined us to give harmonica lessons. Christine Clark of Black Sheep Knitworks, taught the campers how to knit scarves using their arms instead of knitting needles. Local volunteer Danae, made the most delicious macaroni & cheese for dinner again this year. Isabelle taught our campers how to make zucchini bread from zucchini we harvested at camp and also invited Jimmy, head East Hampton lifeguard, to join us in the pool at John & Jenny’s (local supporters), where he taught all of the campers how to float on their backs. Isabelle also invited us to her pool on another day where she and her daughters not only had an awesome snack buffet waiting for the campers but also had Alyssa, a swim instructor, there to give our campers swim lessons.
The biggest shout out goes to our extraordinary volunteer counselors. Karen has been committing her time, resources and talents since 1999. Luis started out as a camper when he was 5 years old and has come back year after year – he’s now 22 and a senior in college. Izzi first attended Camp Erutan when she was 3 years old and this year returned as a counselor. Eva was happy to come back as a counselor again this year and she loved doing the dishes so much that now all of the campers want to help with the dishes too.
Campers who attended this summer, returned for their 3rd year in a row. Smiles, laughter, stories, songs, dancing, swimming, exploring and listening to each other were just some of the memorable moments. These kids are very special individuals who are kind and compassionate. They love their time at Camp Erutan and everyone shed tears when they boarded the train to head back to New York City. We’re excited we will see them again later this year when we all get together for a Camp Erutan holiday party. We are also looking forward to hosting a session of Camp Erutan on the Central Coast of California this fall.
Thank you very much to all of our supporters for your continued support. Your contributions have allowed Camp Erutan to continue for 29 years and we’re still going strong!
With heartfelt gratitude and appreciation.
Lisa Tanzman Founder & Director
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