The YMCA proudly revived its tradition of youth camps, adapting to the times with vibrant day camps focused on personal growth, teamwork, and outdoor learning. This year’s camps, part of the Young Men’s Leadership Project (YMLP) and Girls Leading Our World (GLOW), offered young people in grades 8-9 of primary school and 1-3 of secondary school a unique opportunity for summer adventure, learning, and friendship.

Reigniting the Spirit of Camp: A Summer of Growth, Leadership & Joy

The call for participants invited youth to step away from screens and daily routines, to immerse themselves in nature and in an atmosphere dedicated in investment in leadership, communication, environment and personal growth. “Our camps are a safe, fun, and inspiring environment,” the call emphasized, “where young people become more confident, aware, and prepared for life.” To prepare the space for a smooth and engaging camp, volunteers from the YMCA took part in clean-up actions at the yard of the Faculty of Pedagogy as primary venue for camp activities ensuring a welcoming environment for all participants. An informative session was also held to introduce the camps and spark enthusiasm among interested youth and parents.

Growing Leaders, One Day at a Time: YMCA’s YMLP & GLOW Camps

The YMLP day camp took place on June 20, focusing on exercises designed to foster personal growth. Activities included a drum circle teaching communication and active listening—a metaphor for harmony and cooperation in everyday life and slackline exercises symbolizing balance, trust, and mutual support. Participants also practiced Qi Gong, an ancient Chinese mindfulness and movement practice, enhancing physical and mental well-being. Energizers, social games and moments of relaxation, setting a meaningful tone for the youth’s journey, complemented these engaging activities.

From June 26 to 28, the GLOW camp welcomed an enthusiastic group of girls for a three-day immersive experience. The first two days were held in the serene courtyard of the Faculty of Pedagogy, while the final day was spent amidst the stunning natural beauty of Pelister National Park.

Each day began with yoga sessions helping participants ground themselves and connect deeply with their bodies and surroundings. The camp’s core philosophy encouraged learning through experience and teamwork: girls practiced listening, communicating and building trust through a variety of hands-on exercises.

Daily team challenges prompted campers to collaborate on strategy and problem-solving, reinforcing essential life skills such as resilience, leadership, and community responsibility. Activities like slacklining tested balance, coordination, and courage teaching lessons about facing fears and relying on others that only a camp environment can truly provide.

Afternoons shifted focus from physical to reflective activities, including guided inner-expression sessions through drawing and mindfulness practices. These moments allowed participants to slow down and restore personal well-being in a fast-paced world. Water games, a camp favorite, added fun and spontaneity, creating joyful and unforgettable summer memories.

A unique highlight was the community simulation exercise, where girls role-played local stakeholders to debate, identify community problems, and propose solutions—empowering them to understand and participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives and neighborhoods.

The Heart of the Camp: Volunteers and Teamwork

Behind this program stood a dedicated team. The YMCA team worked closely with local volunteers who contributed to the logistics and marketing as well as the Peace Corps volunteers serving across the country who added the flavor and key ingredient of the American style of camps. They helped in the implementation of the program through multiple exercises, games and camp songs as well as serving as counselors, fostering the teamwork. The camp staff was instrumental in delivering high quality, meaningful programming, but also in fostering a supportive and inspiring atmosphere where every young person could thrive.

In Gratitude

The YMCA extends its deepest gratitude to the local and Peace Corps volunteers for their dedication and passion, which helped us, reignite the flame of camping for our youth and community. We are so happy to have partners such as the YMCA of the USA, Signs of Hope from Germany and our colleagues from the YMCAs in the Balkans with whom we work on the Head Space project making many of the sessions, equipment, and logistics possible and not only for these day camps, but beyond. We love our donors. Thanks to everyone who believed in us, who share our mission and values in investing in the young people and donating on our crowdfunding campaign making the participation of our youth affordable for everyone. Together, we look forward to continuing this journey of growth, learning, and empowerment for many summers to come.