YMCA N. Macedonia has officially opened applications for its Summer 2026 Camp Season, featuring three American-style summer camps designed to inspire, educate, and empower young people across the country. Implemented in partnership with the Peace Corps and local volunteers, this year’s camps offer a powerful blend of experiential education, leadership development, and summer adventure.

Three Camps, One Mission: Developing Future Leaders

The 2026 lineup is tailored to different groups and will take place in Bitola and Pelister National Park:

SPARK Camp – Strong Prepared Aspiring Responsible Kids (23–25 June 2026) introduces a new day camp concept for students entering Grades 6–8. Designed for both boys and girls, SPARK focuses on building foundational leadership skills through hands-on activities, teamwork, and creative exploration. Parents can apply online for their children here.

GLOW Camp – Girls Leading Our World (1–4 July 2026) is an empowering overnight experience for high school girls (entering Years 1–4). The program focuses on confidence-building, leadership development, and fostering meaningful connections among young women ready to make a difference. Students can apply online here.

YMLP Camp – Young Men’s Leadership Project (8–11 July 2026) offers a parallel leadership experience for high school boys (entering years 1–4), emphasizing responsibility, teamwork, and personal growth through interactive learning and outdoor adventure. Students can apply online here.

Camp Experience & Values

Campers will engage with the YMCA “Leaders-in-Training” program pillars: Civic Responsibility, Environment, Leadership, and Personal Growth. In addition to educational workshops and team-building activities, campers will enjoy sports, outdoor excursions, and creative electives, including activities and adrenaline-based experiences in Pelister National Park.

YMCA N. Macedonia’s summer leadership camps are rooted in strong values—caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, courage, creativity, and passion—and are known for creating a safe environment where young people can grow, challenge themselves, and build lasting friendships.

Each program is carefully designed to foster confidence, independence, and a sense of community, equipping participants with skills that extend far beyond the summer months.

Application Process

Interested students can apply online for GLOW and YMLP camps, while parents can apply online for SPARK Camp. The selection process includes:

• Online application submission; see Calls for Campers
• Student interview with a member of the camp staff (in-person or online; for GLOW-YMLP only)
• Notification of acceptance
• Completion of registration by parents/guardians, including required forms and payment
• Preparation for camp

A Summer of Growth & Leadership

With a strong track record of youth programming, the YMCA in N. Macedonia continues to invest in the next generation of leaders through innovative and engaging summer camps. The 2026 season promises to be one of its most exciting yet, offering opportunities for young people to discover their potential, develop leadership skills, and create unforgettable memories.