CAMPER & FAMILY HANDBOOK 2020 - Camp Ooch
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CAMPER & FAMILY HANDBOOK 2020
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: registration@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
Community 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 Community 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, Chief Programs Officer ABOUT CAMP OOCHIGEAS Our Mission Camp Oochigeas is a privately funded, volunteer-based organization that provides kids 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 the disease 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 Sarah Nelles
Chief Executive Officer Chief Programs Officer
Aimee Bruner Averill Clarke
Director of Nursing
Chief Programs Officer
(Interim)
Paresa Jensen Miriam Paas
Manager, Overnight
Director, Community
Camp Programs
& In-Hospital Programs
Lauren Chisholm Petra Kovacs
Manager, Community Programs Manager, In-Hospital Programs
Brandon Atkinson Hilary Davidson
Assistant Manager, Program Admin Supervisor
Overnight Camp Programs & Family Liaison
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 Family Programs iacross the province. 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
Community Programs Summer Day Camps see page 19
Teen 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.
Teomul (Bereaved siblings)
This one-week session is exclusively for bereaved siblings (children who have
lost a sibling 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.
COMMUNITY 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. The space features 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 daytime or evening events, such as
multimedia workshops, Camp days, sleepovers, music lessons, movie nights,
cooking classes, and drama programs. These programs take place across
Ontario, including London, Hamilton, Toronto, and Ottawa. We program in
many different spaces and often take advantage of the great outdoors.
Page 8 Family Programs Camp Ooch offers many different programs throughout the year for the entire family both on weekends and in the evenings. We offer a variety of activity- based programs. Past programs have included cooking classes, theme nights, carnivals, Ooch’s version of The Amazing Race, and many more. Family programs take place across Ontario, including London, Hamilton, Toronto, Sudbury, and Ottawa. SUMMER AND YEAR-ROUND DAY CAMPS Day Camp at Camp Robin Hood Summer 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. Community Day Camp A week of nonstop excitement for Campers and siblings. This one week Camp takes place in Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, and London,and offers a wide range of Camp activities, workshops, a field trip, and more! March Break Day Camp March Break Day camp is for Campers and siblings. This one week camp is offered in Toronto, Ottawa, and London. 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, LHSC in London—as well as three regional cancer centers across southern Ontario. Facilitated by Ooch staff and volunteers, these programs are available to 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 & crafts, games, theme days, science experiences, and parent-and-tot programs. Ooch brings a lighthearted Camp spirit to light while fostering fun and friendship in all hospitals. LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS Ooch offers many leadership programs and wilderness camping trips for teen campers ages 14–18 throughout the year. 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.
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 quick 11:30 a.m. Activity Period 3
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, fishing,
a non-denominational grace. 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 hour is or a campfire.
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 you 8:45 p.m. Senior Bedtime
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 / Tubing
Woodshop
DancePage 11 Facilities at Overnight Camp Our Overnight Camp 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, an 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 within the building houses 4–9 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 either a cook-out or
canoe trip.
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
before heading back to the cabin for bed.
Intermediate Campers Overnight Trip (ages 10–12)
Each intermediate cabin group goes on an overnight camping experience
during their two-week stay at Ooch. These trips take place on our lake,
S’mores Recipe
To make a s’more, roast a very close to Camp. Overnights are a great time to experience sleeping in a
marshmallow over an open fire. tent, making campfires, singing songs, and eating fun fireside snacks (like
s’mores)! After a good night sleep and breakfast, you will pack, clean up the
Once it is toasted, smush the campsite, and paddle back to Camp.
marshmallow and some chocolate
between two graham crackers. Senior Campers Three-Day Canoe Trip (ages 13–14)
It’s so good, you’ll want Each senior cabin group ventures out on a three-day overnight camping trip.
some more—s ’more! These trips take place in Massasauga Provincial Park on Georgian Bay.
During this three-day adventure, Campers have opportunities to explore the
inner Georgian Bay lakes and portages. Each night the group will stay at a
different campsite. Upon arrival, we 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! Ooch provides all of the camping gear: 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 Challenge 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.
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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 respond to these emails. We will print them off and
give them to Campers as with regular mail and faxes. We will also scan and email handwritten mail from the campers
to email to friends and family so that campers can send along a message in a more timely way. The email address is
summeroffice@ooch.org. Please indicate your Camper’s name in the subject line.
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 detract 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
summeroffice@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 that homesickness 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 usually 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, vaping, 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 Campers should bring a bag or knapsack on the bus with their name or a nametag 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.
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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)—
• Cigarettes, lighters or matches please bring a swimsuit
• Drugs or alcohol appropriate for an active Camp
• Knives/weapons of any kind environment.
• Inappropriate music or books One-piece or tankinis only.
*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 recommend that all that Campers able to take the bus to do so. The bus is a coach with movies and a washroom on board. 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 five nurses and at least 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; others may be partway 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 nobody cares how you look—because
everyone knows what it is like to have cancer. 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. There is a New Family Open
House in the summer where you can check out activities, accommodations,
and the Med Shed—and ask Ooch staff all your questions. Please contact our
Family Liaison at registration@ooch.org for more details.
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 smoothly 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 & 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 more. If your child has any
known fear or apprehension around animals please let us know so we can support them.Page 19
INFORMATION ABOUT DAY CAMP
AT CAMP ROBIN ROOD
Camp Ooch Day Camp at Camp Robin Hood is run at the Camp Robin Hood
site located in Markham—an amazing day camp that offers wonderful growth
opportunities and a wide range of activities for 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 & crafts, and
have circle time. We have an oncology nurse with us at all times.
Activities:
Swimming, gymnastics, archery, music, drama, karate, dance, mini folf,
nature, low ropes, land sports, canoeing, arts & Crafts, circle time. A Typical Day
Packing List: *Please ensure that all belongings are labelled* Arrival
Camp Robin Hood provides a towel service for Campers, so you do not need Circle Time
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. Archery
Gymnastics
• Rain boots
• Rain jacket Swimming
• A hat LUNCH
• 2 bathing suits (please send your child in a bathing suit and pack another)
• Change of clothes Rest Hour
• Camp Ooch button (you will make one on the first day) Karate
• Water bottle
• Lunch (Please pack a lunch that does not need refrigeration) Swimming
Snack & Crafts
Communication with Parents:
Departure
Daily communication books are sent home so that parents and Ooch staff
are well-informed about the needs of each child and their daily experiences
throughout the session.Page 20 Transportation for Day Camp at Camp Robin Hood 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: Camp Robin Hood Buses 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, songbooks, 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, Unionville, Aurora, and New Market. Click here to see the bus boundary map *Please note: map boundaries are subject to change without notice
Page 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) Leadership Community Programs; 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; Winter Camping Expedition; 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. If a camper is interested in signing up for or has questions about the Duke of Ed Program, they can contact registration@ooch.org. As well, Ooch offers workshops in the community 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. Winter Camping Expedition The Winter Camping Expedition is a three-day trip where young leaders will learn how to work together as a team and build strong connections with nature. Campers will learn about cooking, traveling, setting up a campsite, and other winter camping skills. 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. Leadership Community Programs The Leadership Community Programs are 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 programs are split among having a great time, adventures with your Camp Ooch friends, and exploring leadership opportunities. These programs run every two to three 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, and 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 child’s time at Camp programs.
While at Overnight Camp: Campers are medically supervised by a highly
skilled team of professionals, consisting of at least one oncologist and team of
paediatric nurses who are available 24 hours a day. We are equipped to provide
specialized oncology care, including but not limited to, 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 Cailey Riggs
routine medications, first aid, and unexpected illnesses. Camp Oochigeas Nurse Coordinator
Oncology RN
While at Community Programs: During Community Overnight and Day Hospital for Sick Children
Camp Programs, a nurse will be a part of the on-site team. They will collect any criggs@ooch.org
required medications from parents/guardians, and are able to manage routine
medication administration, dressing changes, and unexpected illnesses.
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 doctors 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
Ashley Choi
Camp Oochigeas Nurse Coordinator
Oncology RN
Cailey Riggs Ashley Choi Hospital for Sick Children
achoi@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 at least one oncologist from a Haematology/Oncology Program. There are two nurses 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 healthcare 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 Weekends at Camp, Day Camps or Community Programs. Bloodwork at Overnight Camp We cannot do finger pokes at Camp. If your child needs bloodwork at Overnight Camp, it must be taken from a 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. They 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 trained nurse. They 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 Community 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 their 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 has infectious symptoms or develops a fever, you will be contacted immediately and arrangements will be made. Your child can return to Camp once infectious symptoms have resolved for at least 48 hours. MEDICAL CARE AT COMMUNITY PROGRAMS Camp Ooch provides nursing at Community Programs as needed. There is always a nurse at any overnight Community Program and Day Camps.
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 be up to date with all common childhood vaccinations (DTAP, varicella, MMR), with the exception of on-treatment Campers and Campers who have received a bone marrow transplant. Once Campers have completed treatment and are medically safe to resume receiving these vaccinations, they must be up-to-date to attend Camp programs. Please note, 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. Medications 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 their medication, please let us know in advance so we can prepare our inventory with the Med Shed team. Camp Oochigeas is able to support Campers who take medically prescribed cannabinoids. If your child will be taking this class of medication, please contact a Camp Ooch Nurse Coordinator to plan care for your child. 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. For any medications that require refrigeration, please pack these medications in a separate cooler bag with an ice pack. A nurse will pack all cooler bags in a cooler for transportation to and from camp. If you drive your child to Camp, please give your child’s medication bag to the Nursing Staff in the Med Shed upon arrival to Camp. The Nurse will review all of your child’s medication with you at this time. 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, alcohol,
non-prescription medication, weapons (e.g. Jack knives), inappropriate
magazines, CDs, or books (e.g. pornographic, offensive), gum,
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 to ensure,
to the best of our abilities,
The Camper Commitment: that every child we serve has
the opportunity to experience
“I commit to: working hard at Camp, trying my fun, enriching, and magical
best, being fair, following the rules, working experiences, irrespective of
financial status, ethnicity, gender
well with my counsellors and other campers,
expression, sexual orientation,
being honest, and being responsible for my religion, and physical or
belongings and my room at Camp.” cognitive considerations.Page 27 Contact between Campers and Staff Volunteers At Camp Oochigeas, we recognize that strong bonds and positive friendships are formed during the Camp 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 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 anywhere about any other Camper or staff. They should not 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 We encourage Campers and families to capture moments and memories with photography. Please respect that other families who may be captured in your photos may not want their photos published on social media channels. Kindly request permission from Campers and families before publishing photos that include them. Camp Today is a photo and video sharing platform for the Camp Ooch Community! You can access these photos by clicking on the “Camp Today” tab when you’re logged in to your family account. To respect the privacy, confidentiality, and medical status of all community members, we ask that you do not share these photos outside our community. This includes on public forums/social media sites i.e.)Facebook, Twitter etc. You are welcome to download and save photos for your personal use. We’ll post photos the week following the program you attended and all summer long during Camp!
Page 28
HOW TO ENROLL 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 enroll visit www.ooch.org
• Have an Account? Click on Current Families of Ooch
• New to Ooch? Click on New Campers and Families
NEW FAMILY ENROLLMENT FORM
This application will appear for families who are new to Ooch and applying to enroll 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
enroll 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 ENROLLMENT STEPS
1) Begin at the Family Dashboard.
2) Click on the Enrollment tab at the top
3) Choose a camper/ child to enroll in programs.
** Only enroll for Family Programs once under the child who has/had cancer (or eligible 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 enrollment. including all sections
of the Medical Forms (i.e. height, weight, emergency contacts, vaccinations)
6) Once all forms are completed, click continue to check out.
7) On check out page click submit enrollment 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.
ENROLLMENT TIPS:
• Complete all sections of the Medical forms: height, weight, emergency contacts, allergies, and vaccinations.
Incomplete medical forms will delay your registration.
• 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 enroll 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 ENROLLMENT REQUEST as you go along.Page 29 MEDICAL FORMS You are responsible to keep all medical information for your child(ren) complete and up to date. Please review this information prior to each program your child(ren) attend. For Overnight Programs, you will review medications with a medical team member at drop-off. If you indicate that your 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 enroll, we will send out our first program confirmations one week after registration opens indicating which programs in which your family is confirmed 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. PLEASE REPLY EITHER WAY. This will allow us to invite waitlisted Camper and make the necessary arrangements for volunteers, materials, food, and transportation.
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