CAMPER & FAMILY HANDBOOK 2018 - Camp Oochigeas
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CAMPER & FAMILY HANDBOOK 2018
Page 2 WHAT PARENTS SAY... “Sending my son to Camp was the best decision I ever made. He had the time of his life and can’t wait to go back! His confidence returned and he is happier - I feel like my son prior to diagnosis is back. Camp Ooch is magical and wonderful. I want to thank all of the staff, counselors, nurses and doctors who took care of my son at Ooch.” “Since my daughter was diagnosed, Camp Ooch has played an amazing role in her path to recovery. There is nothing that uplifts her spirit more than Ooch. We always wonder just how your staff members have the perfect ability to strike the right balance between being sensitive to a child/family’s need for quiet time and the child’s need to have some fun.” Camp Oochigeas - Toronto Office Camp Oochigeas - North 464 Bathurst Street #4256 Highway 141, PO Box 37 Toronto, ON M5T 2S6 Rosseau, ON P0C 1J0 Tel: (416) 961-6624 Tel: (705) 732-6366 Toll-free: 1-888-GO-4-OOCH Fax: (705) 732-6378 Fax: (416) 961-2267 Email: oochigeas@ooch.org Website: ooch.org
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
About Camp Oochigeas���������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 4
Friendly Faces������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 5
The Program Specialist Team ������������������������������������������������������������������� 6
The Volunteer Team ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 6
Camp Ooch Program Overview ���������������������������������������������������������������������� 7
Ooch in Muskoka - Overnight Camp���������������������������������������������������������� 7
In-City Programs���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 7
Camper and Sibling Programs������������������������������������������������������������������� 7
Family Programs������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 8
Summer and Year-Round Day Camps������������������������������������������������������� 8
In-Hospital Programs �������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 8
Leadership Programs����������������������������������������������������������������������������� 8
Information about Overnight Camp ���������������������������������������������������������������� 9
A Typical Day at Overnight Camp ������������������������������������������������������������� 9
Activities at Overnight Camp ������������������������������������������������������������������ 10
Facilities at Overnight Camp�������������������������������������������������������������������� 11
Cook-Outs and Tripping at Camp������������������������������������������������������������ 12
Awards You Can Achieve at Camp����������������������������������������������������������� 13
Communicating With Your Family While at Camp ����������������������������������� 14
Missing Home While at Camp����������������������������������������������������������������� 15
Packing Guidelines ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 15
General Packing Check List �������������������������������������������������������������������� 16
Transportation to and from Overnight Camp�������������������������������������������� 17
Preparing for Camp - Frequently Asked Questions��������������������������������� 18
Information about Summer Day Camp ��������������������������������������������������������� 19
Summer Day Camp Transportation��������������������������������������������������������� 20
Information about Leadership Programs�������������������������������������������������������� 21
Year-Round Leadership Programs����������������������������������������������������������� 22
Medical Care at Camp����������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 23
A Message from the Medical Team��������������������������������������������������������� 23
Medical Care at Overnight Camp������������������������������������������������������������ 24
Medical Care at Day Camp ��������������������������������������������������������������������� 24
Medical Care at In-City Programs ����������������������������������������������������������� 24
General Medical Information������������������������������������������������������������������� 25
Camp Policies����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 26
Camper Expectations and Guidelines����������������������������������������������������� 26
Contact Between Campers and Staff Volunteers ������������������������������������ 27
Social Networking and Camp ����������������������������������������������������������������� 27
How do I sign up for Camp Ooch Programs? ����������������������������������������������� 28
New Camper Information Sessions �������������������������������������������������������������� 29
Page 4 WELCOME Dear Camper and Family, Welcome to the Ooch Camper Handbook! In here you’ll find everything you need to know about being an Ooch camper and an Ooch parent or guardian. Whether it’s your first time at an Ooch Program or you are an experienced Oocher, we would like you to take the time to read about our programs, policies and procedures. At Ooch, we are continually evolving and it is important that families read up on Camp before attending – whether you are coming for a week, two weeks, or just an hour or two. We can’t wait for you to arrive at Ooch in Muskoka, Ooch Downtown or Day Camp for an incredibly great time! So get excited and get ready. We certainly are! Sincerely, Sarah Nelles, Director of Programs ABOUT CAMP OOCHIGEAS Our Mission Camp Oochigeas is a privately funded, volunteer-based organization that provides kids with cancer and kids affected by childhood cancer with unique opportunities for growth through challenging, fun, enriching and magical experiences. Our Campers Campers who attend Camp Oochigeas are united by a common bond of cancer. Camp Ooch believes that kids should be defined by who they are, not what they have, and our programs are built to meet the unique needs of every camper. Some campers are young children, some are teenagers. Some have experienced cancer personally, while others have gone through a cancer experience with a sibling. We offer a wide range of programs for campers ages 0-18.
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FRIENDLY FACES
Alex Roberston
Chief Executive Officer
Alex oversees all aspects of Ooch. He knows Ooch extremely well, and is likely someone you
will see at Camp programs.
Sarah Nelles
Director, Programs
Sarah, or “Nelles” as the campers call her, oversees all of Camp Ooch’s programs and program
staff. In the summer she is often at Camp, and is someone your child will connect with at Ooch
programs.
Marg Wiley
Manager, Overnight Camp Programs
Marg manages all the programs at our overnight Camp in Muskoka. During the summer months
she will be living onsite and always has a good understanding of who is attending Camp and
how they are doing.
Petra Kovacs
Manager, In-Hospital Programs
You will probably first meet Petra on site at a paediatric hospital in Ontario. She supports our
amazing In Hospital team, helping them create and deploy the best possible programs for
patients and siblings.
Paresa Amin
Manager, In-City Programs
Paresa manages all our In-City Programs and Day Camps in Ontario. She supports our In-City
team to provide year round programs for campers, siblings, and families.
Hilary Davidson
Family Liaison
Hilary is here to support camper families. She can help answer any of your questions about
online registration, transportation, camper paperwork or any questions you have about a specific
program.
Page 6 The Program Staff Team The Camp Oochigeas Program Team supports our volunteers and runs Camp activities for our In Hospital Program, Overnight Programs and Camper and Family Programs in Ontario. These individuals are creative and energetic. They are dedicated to facilitating camp- style experiences for kids of all ages and abilities. With diverse backgrounds, experience and knowledge, this fabulous team ensures our programs are filled with Ooch magic, fun and friendship! The Volunteer Team We select our amazing volunteer counsellors based on their experience working with children. They are personally screened and interviewed by Camp Management and undergo a police background check. All Camp Ooch volunteers go through an annual training program, both before Camp and onsite. They are trained and certified in First Aid, C.P.R. and/or Bronze Cross LifeSaving Certification. Activity counsellors are trained and/or certified in activity-specific skills and bring with them a vast array of expertise to their program areas. Our volunteers range in age from 19-60+.
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CAMP OOCH PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Camp Ooch is much more than a summer camp! In fact we offer programs almost EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR and
many of them are open to the WHOLE FAMILY!
Our programs are divided into four main categories:
Ooch Muskoka (Overnight Camp) see page 9
In-City Programs Summer Day Camps see page 19
Young Adult and Leadership Programs see page 21
In-Hospital Programs
OOCH MUSKOKA - OVERNIGHT CAMP
Sessions One, Two and Three
These two-week sessions are designed to give children with cancer ages
6-14 a traditional overnight summer camp experience. If you are 15-18 we
have great Leadership Programs for you too during this time! Leadership
information for campers age 14-18 is on page 21.
Camp Teomul (Bereaved siblings)
This one-week session is exclusively for bereaved siblings (children who
have lost a brother or sister to cancer) ages 6-18. This is a time for bereaved
siblings to connect with each other and shine in a traditional camp setting.
7Scape (Teen Camp)
This one-week camp experience is designed specifically for teens ages 15-
18. 7Scape is an ideal environment for teens affected by cancer to meet other
teens who understand first-hand what they are going through. This program
fosters community and friendship.
Weekends at Camp (WACs)
These 48 hour camp programs are for campers ages 5-18. They take place
in the fall and winter at our overnight site in Muskoka. WACs are a great way
for current campers to stay connected, and a fabulous introduction to Camp
for new campers. As we do some construction at Ooch Muskoka we will be
facilitating WAC’s at an alternate site.
IN-CITY PROGRAMS
Ooch Downtown is home to our Camp Ooch office. More importantly it is a
one-of-a-kind program space for our campers, siblings and their families to
enjoy. There is a rock climbing wall, teaching kitchen, gymnasium, tech lab,
rooftop patio, and much, much more. There is also a lounge, complete with
internet, coffee and TV that parents/guardians can enjoy while their children
participate in programs.
Camper & Sibling Programs
Throughout the year, camp-style programs are offered across Ontario for
campers and siblings. Most are day or evening events such as multimedia
workshops, camp days, music lessons, movie nights, cooking classes and
drama programs. Most of these programs happen at Ooch Downtown in
Toronto, but sometimes programs take advantage of the great outdoors and
cities such as Hamilton, London and Ottawa.
Page 8 Family Programs Camp Ooch offers many different programs throughout the week for the entire family both on weekends and in the evenings. Past programs have included cooking classes, theme nights, carnivals, Ooch’s version of The Amazing Race and many more. Many Family Programs take place at Ooch Downtown, but we also offer activity-based programs offsite including opportunities to attend professional sporting events. SUMMER AND YEAR-ROUND DAY CAMPS Summer Day Camp Day Camp is for children with cancer ages 4-7 and is an ideal introduction to Camp for younger campers as they are able to return to the comfort of their own bed at night. Our Day Camp is held at Camp Robin Hood in Markham, Ontario and is facilitated by Ooch staff and volunteers. More information on page 19. In-City Day Camp A week of nonstop excitement for campers and siblings ages 8-14. This one week Camp is based out of Ooch Downtown and includes activities both onsite and offsite, throughout the Greater Toronto Area. March Break Day Camp March Break Day Camp is for campers and siblings. It runs at Ooch Downtown, during the Toronto District School Board’s March Break. IN-HOSPITAL PROGRAMS Camp Ooch has a partnership with The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto, McMaster Children’s Hospital in Hamilton and Children’s Hospital in London as well as three regional cancer centers across Southern Ontario. Facilitated by Ooch staff and volunteers, these programs are available to both haematology/oncology patients and their siblings. This fun interactive program includes camp-style activities in the in-patient and out-patient clinics in all hospitals that Ooch serves. Activities include arts and crafts, games, theme days, science experiences and parent and tot programs. Ooch brings a light hearted camp spirit while striving to foster fun and friendship in all hospitals. LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS Ooch offers many leadership programs and out-trips for teen campers ages 14 -18 throughout the year both In-City and at Ooch Muskoka. Through workshops, discussion and experiential learning, young adults can build on existing skills while learning about and developing new skills. Details can be found on page 21 of this manual.
Page 9
INFORMATION ABOUT OVERNIGHT CAMP
A Typical Day at Overnight Camp
At Camp Ooch, it’s not “What are we going to do today?” but rather “What aren’t we going to do?”
RISE AND SHINE MORNING
7:30 a.m. Rise and Shine 8:30 a.m. Breakfast
Time to start your day of FUN! 9:30 a.m. Activity Period 1
7:45 a.m. Polar Bear Dip 10:30 a.m. Activity Period 2
This Ooch tradition is sure to wake you up – a 11:30 a.m. Activity Period 3
quick dip in the lake, first thing in the morning is not During Activity Periods, campers rotate through
mandatory, but it sure is fun! different activities with their cabin counsellors.
8:15 a.m. Flagpole Campers can try activities such as wakeboarding,
We gather at the flagpole before every meal to say waterskiing, arts and crafts, canoeing, nature,
a non-denominational grace. fishing and music. For a full list of activities see
page 10.
AFTERNOON EVENING
12:45 p.m. Flagpole and Lunch 5:45 p.m. Dinner
Refuel for the exciting afternoon ahead! 7:00 p.m. Evening Program
2:00 p.m. Rest Hour It might be a whole camp game, a section activity
Occurs every day after lunch for everyone. Rest or a campfire.
hour is quiet time with no loud music or sports. 8:15 p.m. Juniors Bedtime
3:00 p.m. Electives 8:30 p.m. Intermediate Bedtime
In the afternoon several activities are available and 8:45 p.m. Senior Bedtime
you can pick two each afternoon. Whew, what a day! Time to close your eyes and
dream about all you did.
Page 10
Typical Activities at Overnight Camp
Archery
Arts & Crafts
Canoeing
Drama
Kayaking
Fishing
Music
Nature
Paddleboarding
Pottery
Rock Wall &
High Ropes Course
Sports
Swimming
Waterskiing
WoodshopPage 11 Facilities at Overnight Camp Our overnight campsite is located approximately two and a half hours north of Toronto on a 400 acre property on a private lake in the Muskoka region. It has everything you need for a magical summer adventure, including a campfire pit, a beach, indoor recreation space and playing fields. Rolling hills, pine trees, rock faces and a sparkling land-locked lake help create the perfect backdrop for a nurturing camp experience. All facilities are wheelchair accessible and a staff-driven all-terrain vehicle is available at all times to help those in need of additional support to move around the site. Residences All campers and staff live in modern residence-style buildings that have electricity, accessible washrooms and showers. Each room houses 4-8 campers of the same age group. Counsellor rooms are across the hall from their campers so they are always nearby. Dining Hall A professional catering company provides three nutritionally balanced “camper-approved” meals each day. Light snacks (including fruit) are available all day and plenty of stops at water stations are encouraged. All meals are eaten family-style in cabin groups. Barney the Barn Barney the Barn is our multi-purpose, fully accessible indoor activity space. It ensures we have an accessible space that can accommodate the whole Camp. As well, it provides a winterized indoor activity space for “rainy day” or “cold weather” programs.
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Cook-Outs and Tripping
Depending on your age everyone gets to experience a picnic and either a
cook-out or canoe trip.
Picnic
Each cabin group will have a chance to go on a picnic. There are so many
neat places around Camp to explore! We’ll be sure to have games, crafts and
a delicious lunch packed with us!
Junior Campers Cook-Out (ages 6 - 9)
Every session Junior campers go on a dinner cook-out. The cook-out is a
change to the normal routine of the Dining Hall. Once the cook-out is over,
campers sing songs, share stories and roast marshmallows by the campfire
S’mores Recipe
To make a s’more, roast a before heading back to the cabin for bed.
marshmallow over an open fire.
Intermediate Campers Overnight Trip (ages 10 - 12)
Once it is toasted, smush the Each intermediate cabin group goes on an overnight camping experience
marshmallow and some chocolate during their two week stay at Ooch. These trips take place on our lake, so
between two graham crackers. it’s very close to Camp. Overnights are a great time to experience sleeping in
It’s so good, you’ll want a tent, making campfires, singing songs and eating fun fireside snacks (like
Some-more, s ’more! s’mores)! After a good night sleep and breakfast, you will pack, clean up the
campsite and paddle back to Camp.
Senior Campers Three-Day Canoe Trip (ages 13 - 14)
Each senior cabin group ventures out on a three-day overnight camping trip.
These trips take place in Massasauga Provincial Park on Georgian Bay.
During this three-day adventure, you will have opportunities to explore the
inner Georgian Bay lakes and portages. Each night you will stay at a different
campsite. Once you arrive at your sites, you will set up camp and collectively
cook dinner over a campfire. Trip food is delicious (partly because you’re so
hungry from all of the paddling you have done!) and can range from pasta and
‘trip pizzas’, to blueberry pancakes! The Camp will provide you with all of the
camping gear you need: tents, sleeping pads, trip food, canoes, fishing poles,
life jackets, etc. A nurse will also be on the trip to focus on safety!Page 13 Awards You Can Achieve at Camp Red Cross Swimming Certification Every day we have instructional swim time. Certified instructors can award badges and teach you everything from blowing bubbles to the front crawl. Ontario Recreational Canoe and Kayak Association (ORCKA) Levels Whether you are stepping into a canoe for the first time or working towards paddling on your own, there are lots of canoe awards you can work on. Polar Bear Dip Badge Every day starts off with a quick dip or splash in the lake. If you come every morning you will receive a Polar Bear Dip badge to wear on your button. Tri-Turtle Swim Each session we have a day where we get out all the pool noodles, life jackets and splash pads and go for a long distance swim around the lake. If you join in the fun you will earn your Tri-Turtle Swim badge.
Page 14
Communicating With Your Family While at Camp
We understand that parents and guardians may want to know how their children are doing on a day-to-day basis. We
encourage you to call and speak with staff to get an update on what’s happening. Parents are also welcome to send
letters, faxes, and emails. We remind our campers that they will not have access to email, the phone or a fax machine
while at Camp. Campers cannot call home and cell phones are not permitted.
Writing Letters
Every day after lunch we have a rest hour. This is a great time for campers to write letters or journal about their day.
Mail generally takes about a week to get from Camp to its intended recipient. If you are going to send mail to your
child, we ask that you mail it in the first two days of a one-week session or during the first week of a two-week session
so that it will arrive on time. Please do not send any food or candy to your camper. If a letter or package arrives after
your camper has gone home from Camp, we cannot be responsible for returning it to the sender.
Sometimes your camper may get so busy that they forget to write home! If you don’t hear from your camper, it is not
because they don’t miss you, it’s simply because they are having too much fun to stop and write a letter. If you haven’t
heard from your camper and would like an update, please feel free to call the office and speak with the staff.
Sending Emails
We have an email address specifically for friends and family to email campers. Our Summer Office Manager will check
this address once a day. Please note, staff and campers will NOT be responding to these emails. We will print them off
and give them to campers the same way we do with regular mail and faxes. The email address that family and friends
can write campers at is: campmail@ooch.org.
Sending Faxes
We have a fax machine that we check daily and we will be happy to pass along any faxes to campers from their family.
Faxes can be sent to (705) 732-6378.
Phone Calls
Ooch staff can be reached by phone at (705) 732-6366. The office is open between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. each day.
Parents and guardians: please feel free to call us if you have any concerns about your child. Because we keep our
phone lines available for parents and guardians to call in, we do not permit campers to call home. It has been our
experience that phone calls home interrupt campers from their routine at Camp. Rest assured that if your child has any
problems, we will contact you. An emergency only line is available after hours.
Cell Phones at Camp
Cell phones are not permitted at Camp. Camp provides an excellent opportunity for your child to gain independence
and build friendships. Cell phones take away from this. If your child needs to get in touch with you, please encourage
them to tell a counsellor. (Only exception to this is at 7Scape or Teen WAC). Cell phones cannot be used as cameras.
Thank you in advance for supporting the benefits of the camp experience by keeping your child’s cell phone at home.
Mail can be sent to:
Camper’s Name
c/o Camp Oochigeas
#4256
Highway 141, PO Box 37
Rosseau, ON POC 1JO
campmail@ooch.orgPage 15 Missing Home While at Camp Missing home is okay and is not something that campers should feel bad about. Talking about being homesick as a family before Camp will help campers prepare in the event it should occur. Asking questions like, “How do you feel about being away for the week?” and “What’s something you can do if you miss home?” are good conversations to have. Children who have never slept away from home could try sleeping at a family member or friend’s home for a night as a trial-run. Parents and guardians can help their camper come up with a plan for what to do if they miss home. Telling a counsellor, writing a letter home, making a craft for a friend and staying involved in Camp activities are great things to consider. Missing home doesn’t last very long. Most of the counsellors at Ooch went to camp when they were kids so they understand what it is like to miss home. It may not feel good, but it is important that campers know it is natural. Packing Guidelines Camp Ooch is a non-smoking organization. Campers found using tobacco products, smoking, drinking, using weapons/illegal drugs or playing with matches or lighters will be asked to leave. Parents/Guardians will be responsible for picking their children up and taking them home. Labels Please label ALL items coming to Camp. A permanent laundry marker works well. Each year we have many items that are left behind. Many campers do not recognize their own things (especially towels and socks) – so please help us send everything home with your camper by clearly labeling everything. Camp Oochigeas is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. Lost and Found If you do find that your camper has forgotten something, please call the camp office as soon as possible to arrange to pick it up. We hold lost and found items for two weeks before the items are donated to charity. You can call us at Ooch Downtown at 416-961-6624 to pick up lost and found items. Food Please DO NOT bring any non-medical food, candy or drink. We will have plenty of food and snacks available. If you require a specialized diet please note this on your medical form. For the Bus Ride Please bring a bag or knapsack on the bus with your name or a name tag on it. It may be a good idea to pack some books or games for the bus ride. Bedding Campers need to bring a sleeping bag or bedding for a single bed to Overnight Camp. We do have some extra sleeping bags, but if you have one, please be sure to bring it. Laundry Ooch does not provide laundry services for camper’s clothing. We ask that all campers have enough clothing to get through two active, outdoor weeks. The nights can be chilly, so please pack some warm clothing including long sleeved shirts and long pants. Please read the packing list carefully.
Page 16
General Packing Check List
(2 Weeks at Overnight Summer Camp)
Suggested Items
• Raincoat • 6-8 pairs of socks
• Rainboots • 2-3 bathing suits (no bikinis)
• 4 pairs of jeans/pants • 3 towels
• 3 sweatshirts • 3 pairs of shoes (one closed toe)
• 4 pairs of shorts • Laundry bag
• 8 t-shirts • Pillow
• 1 hat • Sleeping bag
• 2 pairs of pyjamas • Toiletries: soap, shampoo,
• 14 pairs of underwear toothbrush, hairbrush
Optional Items
• Camera (disposable is a good • Teddy bear or other bedtime item
idea) • Baseball glove
• Flashlight and batteries • Fishing pole
• Games, books, comics, cards • Flip-flops for showering
• Sunglasses
Items to Leave At Home
• Cell phones
• Valuables: money, iPods, iPads, • Food of any kind
computers • Bikinis (string or otherwise) Please
• Cigarettes, lighters or matches bring a swimsuit appropriate for an
• Drugs or alcohol active camp environment.
• Knives/weapons of any kind One-piece or tankinis only.
• Inappropriate music or books
*A more detailed list will be sent to you before Camp. If you are a
returning camper, don’t forget your Ooch button! New campers will get
one on their first day of Camp. Camp Oochigeas is not responsible for
any lost or stolen items.Page 17 Transportation to and from Overnight Camp The Camp experience starts on the bus. It gives your child a chance to say hello to old friends and meet new ones. We strongly encourage all campers who are able to take the bus, to do so. The bus is a coach with movies and a washroom onboard. We start our trip in Toronto and make one stop to pick up more campers in Barrie, we also provide busing from London, Hamilton and Ottawa during certain sessions. The ride from Toronto to Camp takes about three hours. More details on specifics of where and when to meet the bus will be sent a week prior to departure. If you do not live in an area that permits your child to take the bus, parents are more than welcome to drive their child to Camp. Upon arrival, please proceed to the Med Shed to hand over any medications, then to the camp office to sign in. Camp Ooch provides transportation to and from Camp at the start and end of a given session. *Parents/Guardians are responsible for having a way to pick up their child should they need to leave Camp early (i.e. they are sick, break a camp policy etc.)
Page 18 Preparing for Camp - Frequently Asked Questions Who will look after me at Camp? The people who look after you are called counsellors. Each cabin group has several counsellors. They are between the ages of 19 and 60+ years old. All of them have experience working with kids. Some have even been campers at Camp Ooch. They come to Ooch to help you have a great time. We also have four nurses and one oncologist at Camp to work in the Med Shed to help with everyone’s health during General Sessions and 7Scape and two nurses during Teomul. Will there be other kids at Camp who are sick like me? Camp Ooch is a camp for kids with all types of cancer and for kids at different stages of cancer treatment. Some campers have just been diagnosed and are at the beginning of their treatment and other campers may be part way through or almost finished their treatment. There are some kids who are bald or losing their hair. Other kids have an amputation, are in a wheelchair, or are wearing a special kind of brace on their arm or leg because they have had surgery. One way or another, all the campers at Ooch know what it is like to have cancer and know that having cancer can do some strange things to a person’s body. The best part about Ooch is that, because everyone knows what it is like to have cancer, nobody really cares how you look. All that matters is that you are there to try your best and have fun. Can I come and visit Camp before I go there as a camper? Of course, we would love to have you visit before you decide to come for a full session. You can come to one of our Weekends at Camp (WACs) in the fall or winter or you can visit us throughout the summer. All you need to do is call us to let us know when you are coming. During Session 2, we are hosting a New Family Visitor Day. Check out activities, accommodations, the Med Shed and ask Ooch staff all your questions. Please RSVP to registration@ooch.org What will happen if I need to get treatment while I am at Camp? Lots of campers get chemo or blood transfusions while they are at Camp. The nurses and the doctor in the Med Shed know all about taking care of kids with cancer. If you need to visit the Med Shed, one of your counsellors will go with you to help you feel more comfortable. The best part about getting treatment while you are at Camp is that the nurses in the Med Shed make it go as fast as possible so that you can get back to doing the fun stuff that Ooch is all about. Why should I come to Camp? Camp is an amazing place and there are so many fun things to do. Whether you prefer climbing the rock wall, swimming in the lake or working on a project in Arts and Crafts, you will find something you enjoy. What is also fun about Ooch is that it’s a great place to make new friends. The counsellors will encourage you to participate in activities and to be as creative as you like. You should come to Camp Ooch because while you are there you will try new things, make lots of friends and learn to be an independent person. What if I don’t make any friends? Don’t worry, you will! Everyone gets along at Ooch and has a great time together. You will get to interact with kids from other cabins as well as your own and because everyone is (or was) in the same situation as you, they understand what you’re feeling and will help to make your stay at Camp Ooch a wonderful experience. What kind of animals might I see? While at Ooch Muskoka we are lucky to share the space with many birds, deer, beavers and even a camp dog. If your child has any known fear or apprehension around animals please let us know so we can support them.
Page 19
INFORMATION ABOUT SUMMER DAY CAMP
AT CAMP ROBIN ROOD
Camp Ooch Day Camp is run at Camp Robin Hood - an amazing day camp
located in Markham. Day Camp offers wonderful growth opportunities and
a wide range of activities for our younger campers ages 4-7. Campers travel
from activity to activity with Camp Ooch counsellors. We have our very own
air-conditioned space where we can have lunch and rest hour, do arts and
crafts and have circle time. We have an oncology nurse with us at all times.
Day Camp Activities:
Swimming, Gymnastics, Archery, Music, Drama, Karate, Dance, Mini Golf,
Nature, Low Ropes, Land Sports, Canoeing, Arts and Crafts, Circle Time. A Typical Day
Day Camp Packing List: *Please ensure that all belongings are labelled*
at Day Camp
Camp Robin Hood provides a towel service for campers, so you do not need Arrival
to pack one. If you wish, your child can leave some of their extra Day Camp
items at Camp so you don’t need to re-pack them each day. Circle Time
Archery
• Rain Boots
• Rain jacket Gymnastics
• A hat Swimming
• 2 bathing suits (please send your child in a bathing suit and pack another)
• Change of clothes LUNCH
• Camp Ooch button (you will make one on the first day) Rest Hour
• Water bottle
• Lunch (Please pack a lunch that does not need refrigeration)
Karate
Swimming
Communication with Parents:
Snack & Crafts
Daily communication books are sent home so that parents and Ooch staff are
well-informed about each child’s day and needs throughout the session. DeparturePage 20
Day Camp Transportation
Located in Markham, Camp Robin Hood is conveniently close to most GTA
communities. We offer two transportation options for families to choose from.
Option 1: Drop-off & Pick-up
For families who can drive their kids to Camp daily or who can organize
convenient car-pools. Detailed instructions on drop-off and pick-up will be
communicated closer to session start dates.
Option 2: Door-to-Door Transportation
Camp Robin Hood has built its reputation on providing a well-organized and
effective transportation service. They work very hard to make certain their
routes are fast and efficient and the trips to and from Camp are fun-filled.
For campers travelling on buses, their daily routes begin at 8 a.m. and all of
the buses leave Camp Robin Hood at approximately 4 p.m.
Camp Robin Hood works closely with the bus company and directly with
parents to help provide safety and confidence for both parents and campers.
Their carefully selected Bus Administration Team works closely with all Bus
Counsellors. They provide training, program materials, song books and daily
activities to keep campers of every age involved and having fun!
Please note that while every effort is made to provide door-to-door service, the
camper must live within the boundaries outlined below, or be prepared to drive
to the nearest pick-up location within the boundary.
Camp Robin Hood serves the following areas in the
Greater Toronto Area:
Markham, North York, Pickering, Richmond Hill, Stouffville, Thornhill, Toronto and Unionville
*Please note: Map boundaries are subject to change without noticePage 21 LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS Your Path Through Ooch Leadership Programs The Leadership Program at Ooch is a great way to continue your time at Camp, while making new friends and going on adventures. Our Leadership Program cultivates resilience, self-efficacy and leadership through defining moments of challenge, laughter, self-discovery, and compassion. The suggested path through the Ooch Leadership Program would be as follows: Year 1 - (Age 14) Duke of Edinburgh’s Award program Year 2 - (Age 15) Teen Leadership and Social Club; Bruce Trail Hiking Trip Year 3 - (Age 16) LIT 1 or High School Credit Program; Algonquin Park Canoe Trip Year 4 - (Age 17) Up Stream; Dog Sledding; Alberta Exchange Year 5 - (Age 18) LIT 2 Leaders in Training (LIT) 1 The LIT program is for young camp leaders ages 16 - 18. The LIT 1 experience begins with a multi-day wilderness canoe trip at the Frost Centre near Haliburton. Skills such as portaging, map reading, steering a canoe and cooking over a fire will be learned. Following the canoe trip, the LIT team heads back to Ooch to further their leadership skills at Camp. Workshops and activities focus on small-group facilitation skills, team-building, and communication. Note: All successful LIT 1 participants will receive a certificate recognizing the completion of 15 hours of volunteer service that can be used toward their high school diploma and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Leaders in Training (LIT) 2 Campers who are 18 years of age and have successfully completed the Ooch LIT 1 program are invited to apply for the LIT 2 program. This program has two streams, assistant camp counsellor and assistant activity counsellor. This program allows LIT 2s to develop their skills while assisting a cabin group or activity. Working alongside experienced and skilled cabin counsellors and activity leaders, LIT 2s will learn first-hand the challenges and highlights of working with children. LIT 2s will leave Ooch with newly developed skills which are not only valuable in a camp environment, but can also be applied outside of Camp, be it at school, a first job, or a team! Note: All successful LIT 2 participants will receive a certificate recognizing the completion of 30 hours of volunteer service. Up-Stream Leadership participants are invited to learn to white water paddle on a 9 day/8 night canoe trip adventure on the Petawawa River. This program allows Leadership participants to extend their knowledge of paddling, out-tripping and leadership principles/styles. High School Credit Program Camp Oochigeas offers a full high school credit course for participants in the overnight Leadership Program. Campers will work towards earning a Grade 11 Health and Physical Education credit by participating in a Ministry approved camp curriculum. Through a canoe trip and various Camp workshops/ lessons, students will be guided, tested and challenged in healthy living and outdoor activities. Participants must attend Session 3 and 7Scape.
Page 22 Year-Round Leadership Programs Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Program The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Program is an internationally recognized leadership award that is a valuable asset for job or school applications. When a camper signs up for any of our overnight leadership programs, they will automatically be registered in the program. As well, Ooch offers In-City workshops for interested campers which will help members stay on track while progressing through their levels. Algonquin Park Canoe Trip Ooch leaders are invited to go on a three-day canoe trip through beautiful Algonquin Park. Young leaders will experience some of Canada’s most famous lakes and forests during the fall. Participants will cook over campfires, travel by canoes and sleep in tents under the stars. Dog Sledding The Dog Sledding expedition is a three-day trip where young leaders will learn how to work together as a team, and build strong connections with nature and their dogs. Spring Leadership Retreat at Ooch in Muskoka This is a three-day experience in which young adults will build upon their existing leadership skills and have an opportunity to learn new ones. Participants will use group discussions, workshops, seminars and outdoor experiences to strengthen and enhance previous leadership training. Bruce Trail Hiking Trip This is a three-day hiking/camping experience along the world famous Bruce Trail. Young leaders will experience beautiful hiking trails alongside the turquoise shores of Georgian Bay. As there is no paddling/portaging, this is a great trip to experience camping for the first time. Teen Leadership and Social Club The Teen Leadership and Social Club (TLSC) is a great jumping off point for teens to engage in Camp Oochigeas Leadership Programs as well as connect with other teens. The focus of the group is split among having a great time, adventures with your Camp Ooch friends, and exploring leadership opportunities. The group meets every three to four weeks.
Page 23
MEDICAL CARE AT CAMP
A Message from the Medical Team
Greetings! We are so thrilled you have decided to send your child to Camp
Ooch! Camp Ooch is supported by the medical staff at The Hospital for Sick
Children (SickKids), CHEO, McMaster and London Children’s Hospitals. The
Camp Ooch medical staff, in collaboration with your child’s medical team,
have been working hard to prepare for your camper’s arrival at Camp.
While at Overnight Camp: Campers are medically supervised by a
highly skilled team of professionals, consisting of an oncologist and team of
four nurses, who are available 24 hours a day. We are equipped to provide
specialized oncology care including blood work, some IV chemotherapy,
central line care and blood transfusions. In addition, the medical staff
manages the other medical needs of the campers and staff, including routine Lauren Lasher
medications, first aid and unexpected illnesses. Camp Oochigeas Nursing Team Lead
Oncology R.N.
While at Day Camp: Campers are supervised by an oncology nurse. This Hospital for Sick Children
nurse is equipped to provide routine and some oncology specific care. llasher@ooch.org
The nurses at Ooch love getting to know your child in a new setting –
seeing patients at Camp provides medical staff with a renewed energy and
enthusiasm! You can often find the doctor and nurses involved in Camp
activities like climbing the rock wall, singing songs at campfires, canoeing on
the lake and dancing in the Dining Hall.
We look forward to seeing your child at Ooch and creating camp memories all
year!
Sincerely,
Camp Oochigeas Nursing Staff
Lauren Lasher Andrea Polidori Andrea Polidori
Camp Oochigeas Nurse Coordinator
Oncology R.N.
Hospital for Sick Children
apolidori@ooch.orgPage 24 MEDICAL CARE AT OVERNIGHT CAMP The Med Shed (our Medical Facility) Our modern medical facility at Overnight Camp, called “The Med Shed” is staffed by nurses and one oncologist from a Haematology/Oncology Program. There is just one nurse at Teomul. The Med Shed staff are available 24 hours a day to support any medical situation. Our Med Shed is equipped to manage a number of medical scenarios. We also have relationships with several community health care centers in the area should we ever require additional resources. Chemo at Overnight Camp You will know before your child leaves for Camp if he/she will require chemotherapy at Camp. Our nursing team and your child’s clinic staff will make all arrangements. IV chemotherapy is given at Camp on Tuesdays and Thursdays and is prepared at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. Please note that we cannot give IV chemo at Day Camps or Ooch Downtown. Bloodwork at Overnight Camp We cannot do finger pokes at Camp. If your child needs bloodwork at Overnight Camp, it must be taken from his or her central line or from a vein. Getting Sick at Overnight Camp If your child becomes ill, we have a number of medications to help manage their symptoms and individual rooms for campers who are unwell. If symptomatic (cough, fever, vomiting, diarrhea or sore throat), campers will return home until symptom free for 48 hours. If your child develops a fever and has low blood counts, we will initiate fever/ neutropenia care and arrange to take him/her to the hospital. Parental/Guardian Responsibility If campers are off therapy and become unwell at Camp, they will need to go home. It is an expectation that someone will be available to pick up your child from Camp. He/she can return once symptoms have resolved for at least 48 hours. MEDICAL CARE AT DAY CAMPS The Medical Team The Medical Team consists of at least one paediatric oncology trained nurse. He/she will provide general supervision and medication administration. This can include oncology specific care such as: central line care, some injections (i.e. GCSF) and nutritional support. All members of the medical team have the experience to identify oncology specific concerns and will arrange for additional support if necessary. We do not provide IV chemotherapy or blood work at Day Camp or at In-City Programs. Clinic Visits and Appointments during Day Camp Many campers have appointments or clinic visits during Day Camp. Please let the staff know of these days as soon as possible. Campers are welcome to re-join Day Camp after their appointment if time allows. We cannot provide transportation to and from these appointments, so parents or guardians are responsible for dropping these campers off. Getting Sick at Day Camp If your child becomes sick while at Day Camp, the nurse will provide necessary supervision. If your child is symptomatic, you will be contacted immediately and arrangements to take this camper home will be made. If your camper develops a fever and has low counts, arrangements will be made to take them to SickKids for the appropriate care. We will contact you to meet us at the hospital or en route. Campers can return to Camp once symptoms have resolved for at least 48 hours. MEDICAL CARE AT IN-CITY PROGRAMS Camp Ooch provides nursing at In-City Programs as needed. There is always a nurse at any overnight In-City Program.
Page 25 General Medical Information While campers thrive and grow in the natural setting of Camp, parents and caregivers can rest assured that they will also have access to excellent medical care. Infection Control At Ooch we are very careful about any infectious symptoms. If your camper has any infectious symptoms (cough, runny nose, sore throat, diarrhea or certain rashes) they are unable to attend an Ooch program until they are symptom free for 48 hours. If you have questions about any symptoms, please contact Camp before attending. If your camper becomes unwell at Camp and needs to go home (as opposed to the hospital) it is an expectation that someone will be available to pick him or her up from Camp. He/she can return once symptoms have resolved for at least 48 hours. Immunizations at Camp Ooch Camp Ooch requires all campers, staff and volunteers to receive common childhood vaccinations (dTAP, varicella, MMR), with the exception of on-treament campers and campers who have received a bone marrow transplant. Once campers have completed treatment and are medically safe to receive these vaccinations, they must be up-to-date to attend Camp programs. Camp Ooch does not require proof of immunity for immediate family members of campers at Family programs, program service providers that are hired by Ooch and guests. Receiving Medicine at Camp Nurses administer all medications at Camp; this includes vitamins, herbal remedies and as-needed medications. Meds are administered at mealtimes (in the Dining Hall) and before bedtime (in the Med Shed) for Overnight Camp. If there are certain methods by which your camper takes his or her meds, please let us know in advance so we can prepare our inventory with the Med Shed team. Bringing Medicine to Camp Please send all regularly scheduled and prescribed as needed medications to Camp with your child. Please DO NOT send any other over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as Tylenol or Advil; the Med Shed has a number of OTC medications available as necessary. Please leave all medications in their original containers so our medical staff is aware of what they are administering. Medications should not be brought to Camp in pre-filled dosettes. Please list all medications on your forms and let us know before Camp, if there are any changes. Personal Medication Bags Campers will be provided with a Camp Ooch Med Bag to transport medications to and from Camp. This bag will be labelled with your child’s first and last name and will be packed with his or her meds and instructions by our nursing team. The bag will be returned to you at the end of the session and should be kept for all future Ooch programs. If your child will be taking the bus, the bag of medications is given to the nurse at the bus (we will have a cooler on the bus if any medication needs to be kept cold – please bring an ice pack). If you drive your child to Camp, please give the nursing staff at the Med Shed your child’s medication bag upon arrival. If your child gets motion sickness and requires Gravol, please have your child take the medication before getting on the bus and let us know. When can parents and guardians expect to hear from the Med Shed? The Med Shed occasionally calls home to clarify information or confirm details about medications or routines. If your child gets sick while at Camp, parents or guardians will be notified immediately. Parents or guardians are welcome to call and speak with the doctor or nurses at any time. Allergies at Camp It is important that Camp Staff are aware of all allergies; this information should be clearly noted on your child’s medical form. Anyone at Camp who has an anaphylactic allergy is required to bring and carry their EpiPen with them at all times. We are a nut-managed site, meaning we do not use products that contain nuts in our meal plan.
Page 26
CAMP POLICIES
Camper Expectations and Guidelines
The environment that is created by the campers and counsellors will, in a
significant way, affect the experience each person has while at Camp. We
endeavour to create an environment for all that is safe, fair, encouraging,
inclusive, respectful and responsible.
Campers are expected to follow the three main camp rules:
NO UNSUPERVISED ACTIVITIES
NO BULLYING OR PUT DOWNS
NO PHYSICAL VIOLENCE
The following are additional policies campers are expected to follow
and obey:
• All counsellors and campers should be treated respectfully.
• Campers will be encouraged to be independent, e.g. organizing
themselves and their belongings, demonstrating appropriate self-care
and cleanliness, engaging in Dining Hall procedures and clean-up.
• Campers will be encouraged to be helpful and cooperative.
• Campers may only use Camp equipment with a counsellor’s permission.
• Everyone must wear sunscreen, T-shirts and hats at all times for sun
protection. Tank tops are discouraged for outdoor activities.
• There is no smoking at Camp.
• No one on Ooch property may have: tobacco, lighters, matches,
weapons (e.g. Jack knives), inappropriate magazines, CDs or books
(e.g. pornographic, offensive), gum or skateboards. If found, these items
will be taken away from campers.
• Do not bring iPods, iPads, laptops, tablets, MP3 players or games. If
found, these items will be taken away from campers.
• Cell phones are not permitted at Camp. Campers will not be permitted
to use cell phones as cameras.
Please review these expectations with your camper before they arrive
at Camp.
It is our commitment ensure
that every child we serve has
The Camper Commitment: the opportunity to experience
fun, enriching and magical
“I commit to: working hard at Camp, trying my experiences, irrespective of
best, being fair, following the rules, working financial status, ethnicity, gender
expression, sexual orientation,
well with my counsellors and other campers,
religion, and physical or
being honest and being responsible for my cognitive considerations to the
belongings and my room at Camp.” best of our abilities.Page 27 Contact between Campers and Staff Volunteers At Camp Oochigeas, we recognize that strong bonds and positive friendships are formed during the camping season. However, we prohibit our volunteers from having contact (i.e. phone calls, emails, texts, social gatherings, and any other communication or activities not organized or sponsored by Camp Oochigeas) with campers outside of program times during the year. Staff volunteers are prohibited from releasing their personal phone numbers, email addresses, mailing address or other contact information to campers. The good news is that there are so many planned opportunities for campers and volunteers to connect in our year-round programs. Whether they are in the summer, at a Weekend at Camp, right here in the city or at a paediatric hospital – you will be able to reconnect with fellow campers and favourite counsellors all year long! Social Networking and Camp Camp Ooch can be found online at ooch.org, @campooch on Twitter, @campoochigeas on Instagram and on Facebook at facebook.com/ CampOoch. We appreciate that the use of social networks such as Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to stay in touch with other campers is becoming more frequent. While we acknowledge that it is possible for campers to “find” their counsellors online, we do not condone counsellors finding or adding their campers to any online forum. The formation of any groups online is done so without the consent or supervision of Camp Oochigeas. We ask campers who are part of such social networks to respect the nature of our Camp as well as the privacy of all campers and staff. Campers should not write hurtful or negative messages about any other camper or staff, nor should they disclose any personal information about themselves, another camper or staff. Campers are asked not to post pictures or video of Camp, camp activities or campers online without permission of those in the picture/video. Camp Today - Photos Camp Ooch has a photo and video sharing platform for everyone in the Ooch Community. You can access photos from all of our programs by clicking on the “Camp Today” tab when you’re logged into your family account. You are welcome to download and save these photos for your own personal use, but please do not share these photos outside our community. We encourage campers and families to capture moments and memories with photography at programs. However, please respect that other families who may be captured in your photos may not want their photos published on social media channels, such as Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. We kindly ask that you request permission from campers and families before publishing photos of them.
Page 28
HOW TO ENROL FOR CAMP OOCH PROGRAMS
Program dates & descriptions are available online and emailed out seasonally. Ooch programs are free of charge.
When you are ready to enrol visit www.ooch.org and click on Register for Programs
• Have an Account? Click on Current Camper & Family Registration
• New to Ooch? Click on New Camper & Family Application
NEW FAMILY ENROLMENT FORM
This application will appear for families who are new to Ooch and applying to enrol in programs for the first time. When
completing this form please list all children in your family that might attend programs. Next please move forward and
enrol for specific programs.
** Please be aware that there is an eligibility criteria for Camp Ooch. Our Medical Team will review your
application and contact you if they have questions or if you are not eligible.
PROGRAM ENROLMENT STEPS
1) Begin at the Family Dashboard.
2) Click on the Enrolment tab at the top
3) Choose a camper/ child to enrol in programs.
** Only enrol for Family Programs once under the child who has/had cancer (or older bereaved sibling)
4) If applicable complete any questions related to the program(s), then click save and continue.
5) Next you will be taken to forms. All forms must be completed to process your enrolment.
6) Once all forms are completed, click continue to check out.
7) On check out page click submit enrolment request.
**You will receive a confirmation email letting you know you have enrolled. If you do not receive an email
please go back and ensure you have filled all mandatory fields and ALL submit buttons.
ENROLMENT TIPS:
• Make sure you include two emergency contacts (18+) on your medical form. These contacts cannot be the
parent/guardians already listed. Incomplete emergency contacts will delay your registration.
• You only need to register for Family Programs once, under the child who has/had cancer (or the oldest
bereaved sibling).
• You can skip the oncology related questions for a child who does not have cancer.
• To enrol an additional child in your family go to “My Account”.
• It is very helpful for our medical team if you upload photos of your child(ren).
• The website works best with Chrome or Firefox web browsers.
• You can change your password to something easy to remember under “My Account”.
• Do not forget to hit CONTINUE TO CHECK-OUT and SUBMIT ENROLMENT REQUEST as you go along.Page 29 MEDICAL FORMS You are responsible for keep your child(rens) medical information and medications up to date. For Overnight Programs you will review medications with a medical team member at drop-off. If you indicate that you child is on-treatment OR they see their oncologist every 3 months or less, Ooch will also collect medical information from you primary oncology team. CONFIRMATIONS To ensure all families have an equal chance to enrol, we will send out our first program confirmations one week after registration opens indicating which programs your family is confirmed in and which you are waitlisted for. In order for your application to be completed, all forms must be submitted. CANCELLATIONS Approximately one week before a scheduled program you will receive an email with the final details and travel arrangements. It is extremely important that you reply immediately to indicate that you are still coming or if you need to cancel. REPLY EITHER WAY. This will allow us to invite waitlisted camper and make the necessary arrangements for volunteers, materials, food and transportation.
Page 30 NEW CAMPER FAMILY INFORMATION SESSIONS Join us in the Greater Toronto Area, Barrie, London, Hamilton, Ottawa or Kingston to learn more about Camp Oochigeas. Why would I attend a New Camper Family Information Session? Each session will include opportunities to: • Meet the Camp Managers • Meet the Medical Team • Ask any questions you may have • See a slideshow and pictures of Camp programs • Learn how to prepare your child for missing home To find out more information, or to register, please call our Family Liaison, Hilary Davidson, at 416-961-6624 or registration@ooch.org
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