CAMPER/FAMILY HANDBOOK 2015

CAMPER/FAMILY
HANDBOOK 2015
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WHAT PARENTS SAY...
“Camp Ooch has put that sparkle back in his eyes and rebuilt his confidence and self-esteem.”
“Through treatment our son was mostly surrounded by adults and since then he has had a difficult time making
friends and feeling comfortable with other kids. Camp Ooch has helped him reclaim his childhood. We love Camp
Ooch!”
“Our daughter has a lot of spirit and love for the Camp. We have seen a side of her that doesn’t always show up in
her day-to-day life. We are always excited to see our little girl shine! We credit Ooch for nurturing and supporting ‘the
kid’ in our child.”
Camp Oochigeas - Toronto Office
Camp Oochigeas - North
464 Bathurst Street
Toronto, ON M5T 2S6
#4256 Highway 141, PO Box 37
Rosseau, ON P0C 1J0
Tel: (416) 961-6624
Toll-free: 1-888-GO-4-OOCH
Fax: (416) 961-2267
Tel: (705) 732-6366
Fax: (705) 732-6378
Email: oochigeas@ooch.org
Website: ooch.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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About Camp Oochigeas���������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 4
Friendly Faces������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 5
The Program Specialist Team ������������������������������������������������������������������� 6
The Volunteer Team ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 6
Camp Ooch Program Overview ���������������������������������������������������������������������� 7
Ooch in Muskoka - Residential (Overnight) Camp������������������������������������� 7
Ooch Downtown Programs (In-City)���������������������������������������������������������� 7
Camper and Sibling Programs������������������������������������������������������������������� 7
Family Programs������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 8
Summer and Year-Round Day Camps������������������������������������������������������� 8
In-Hospital Programs �������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 8
Young Adult and Leadership Programs�������������������������������������������������� 8
Information about Residential Camp �������������������������������������������������������������� 9
A Typical Day at Residential Camp ����������������������������������������������������������� 9
Activities at Residential Camp����������������������������������������������������������������� 10
Facilities at Residential 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 Residential Camp����������������������������������������� 17
Preparing for Camp - Frequently Asked Questions��������������������������������� 18
Information about Summer Day Camp ��������������������������������������������������������� 19
Summer Day Camp Transportation��������������������������������������������������������� 20
Information about Young Adult and Leadership Programs����������������������������� 21
Year-Round Leadership Programs����������������������������������������������������������� 22
Medical Care at Camp����������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 23
A Message from the Med Shed �������������������������������������������������������������� 23
Medical Care at Residential Camp ��������������������������������������������������������� 24
Medical Care at Day Camp ��������������������������������������������������������������������� 24
Medical Care at Ooch Downtown Programs (In-City) ����������������������������� 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
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 Camp or you are an experienced
Oocher, we would like you to take the time to read about our programs
and policies. 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 are excited you are coming to Camp! We are already meeting with
our staff and volunteers to plan exciting activities, new adventures and a
whole lot of friendship and fun. We are finding new ways to make your time
at Ooch the best that it can be. 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 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.
FRIENDLY FACES
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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 of 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
Residential Program Manager
Marg manages all the programs at our overnight residential Camp in Muskoka. During the
summer months she will be living onsite and she always knows who is up at Camp and how they
are doing.
Petra Kovacs
In-Hospital Program Manager
You will probably first meet Petra on the 8th floor at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids). She
supports our amazing In-Hospital team, helping them provide the best possible programs for patients and
siblings on the oncology/haematology unit.
Paresa Amin
In-City Program Manager
Paresa manages all our In-City programs for campers and families and manages Ooch’s
Summer Day Camp at Camp Robin Hood and Ooch Downtown.
Zoe Keefer
Program Coordinator, Volunteers and Camp Life
Zoe trains and coordinates all of the wonderful Ooch volunteers. In the summer, she will be at Ooch in
Muskoka, but for the rest of the year you will find her supporting all our programs.
Kathleen Gurski
Young Adult and Leadership Program Coordinator
Kathleen is in charge of the year-round Leadership Programs for teen campers, and out-trips up
at Camp and in Toronto.
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The Program Specialist Team
The Camp Oochigeas Program Specialist Team
supports our volunteers and runs camp activities for
our In-Hospital Program, Residential Programs and
Camper and Family Programs at Ooch Downtown.
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. 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+. There is generally a one-to-one staff
to camper ratio to support the unique needs of each
camper.
CAMP OOCH PROGRAM OVERVIEW
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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/places:
Ooch in Muskoka (Overnight Camp)
see page 9
In-City ProgramsSummer Day Camp see page 19
Young Adult and Leadership Programs
see page 21
In-Hospital Programs
OOCH IN MUSKOKA - RESIDENTIAL (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 15-18 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 1518. 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 residential site in Muskoka. WACs are a great way
for current campers to stay connected, and a fabulous introduction to Camp
for new campers.
OOCH DOWNTOWN PROGRAMS (IN-CITY)
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, Jays locker room and much, much more. There is also a lounge,
complete with internet, coffee and TV that guardians can enjoy while their
children participate in programs.
Camper & Sibling Programs
Throughout the year, camp-style programs are offered at Ooch Downtown
for campers and siblings. Most are day or evening events such as workshops
at TIFF, a day with the Toronto Police Marine Unit, movie nights, cooking
classes and even sleepovers. Most of these programs happen at Ooch
Downtown in Toronto, but sometimes programs take advantage of the great
outdoors and other cities.
Family Programs
Camp Ooch offers many different programs for the entire family both on
weekends and in the evenings during the week. Past programs have included
cooking classes, theme nights, carnivals, Ooch’s version of The Amazing
Race and many more. Most 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 ages 4-7. It runs at Ooch
Downtown, during the Toronto District School Board’s March Break.
IN-HOSPITAL PROGRAMS
Camp Ooch has a partnership with the haematology/oncology department at
The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and various satellite centres across
Ontario. Facilitated by Ooch staff seven days a week, these programs are
available to both haematology and oncology patients and their siblings.
Ooch on the 8th Daytime
This fun, interactive day program includes camp-style activities in the
outpatient clinic, playrooms and patient rooms. Activities include arts and
crafts, games, theme days, and Parents and Tots programs. In addition to the
regular day-to-day programs, the In-Hospital Team provides group programs
on both Saturdays and Sundays in room 8704.
Ooch on the 8th Evening (OOT8)
OOT8 is designed for children in the in-patient units at SickKids. OOT8 brings
the spirit and light-hearted fun of Camp to the unit in the evenings. There
is always a different theme and this program is run by teams of incredibly
creative and enthusiastic volunteers. This program runs Monday to Thursday
from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the 8A playroom. September - June.
YOUNG ADULT AND LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS
Ooch offers many leadership programs and out-trips for teen campers ages
14 -18 throughout the year at both Ooch Downtown and Ooch in 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.
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INFORMATION ABOUT RESIDENTIAL CAMP
Page 9
A Typical Day at Residential 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
7:30 a.m. Rise and Shine
Time to start your day of FUN!
7:45 a.m. Polar Bear Dip
This Ooch tradition is sure to wake you up – a
quick dip in the lake, first thing in the morning is not
mandatory, but it sure is fun!
8:15 a.m. Flagpole
Gather around the flagpole before every meal for
updates on the day’s events.
AFTERNOON
12:45 p.m. Flagpole and Lunch
Refuel for the exciting afternoon ahead!
2:00 p.m. Siesta
Head back to your cabin for some quiet time to
write a letter, play a board game or catch some
‘zzzzs!
3:00 p.m. Electives
In the afternoon several activities are available and
you can pick two each afternoon. So what will it be?
Fishing? Rock Climbing? Tie-Dying a T-Shirt?
MORNING
8:30 a.m. Breakfast
9:30 a.m. Waterskiing
Try wakeboarding, water-skiing, or ride the water
couch!
10:30 a.m. Arts and Crafts
Paint, design, or sculpt — whatever you decide
to do, we guarantee you’ll be leaving with a
masterpiece.
11:30 a.m. Canoeing
Buckle up your life jacket and jump into a canoe!
EVENING
6:00 p.m. Dinner
After a fun day, there’s nothing like a big plate of
brussel sprouts. Kidding! How about spaghetti
and meatballs?
7:30 p.m. Campfire
Time to sing songs and catch up with friends!
Bedtime
Whew, what a day! Time to close your eyes and
dream about all you did.
Typical Activities at Residential Camp
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Archery
Arts & Crafts
Canoeing
Drama
Farm Trip
Kayaking
Fishing
Nature
Pottery
Rock Wall &
High Ropes Course
Sports
Swimming
Waterskiing
Facilities at Residential Camp
Our residential campsite is located approximately two and a half hours north
of Toronto on a gorgeous 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
Page 12
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, like the caves, whispering pines, or the
waterfall. Don’t forget to bring cards, crafts and of course your picnic lunch!
Junior Campers Cook-Out ages (ages 6 - 9)
S’mores Recipe
To make a s’more, roast a
marshmallow over an open fire.
Once it is toasted, smush the
marshmallow and some chocolate
between two graham crackers.
It’s so good, you’ll want Somemore, s ’more!
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, so
it’s very close to Camp. Overnights are a great time to experience sleeping in
a 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
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 Massassauga Provincial Park on Georgian Bay.
During this three-day adventure, you will have an opportunity 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 spaghetti
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!
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.
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Communicating With Your Family While at Camp
Page 14
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. 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.
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 or Camp Director. (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.
Missing Home While at Camp
Page 15
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 Residential 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 and 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.
General Packing Check List
(2 Weeks at Residential Summer Camp)
Page 16
Suggested Items
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Raincoat
Rainboots
4 pairs of jeans/pants
3 sweatshirts
4 pairs of shorts
8 t-shirts
1 hat
2 pairs of pyjamas
14 pairs of underwear
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
6-8 pairs of socks
2-3 bathing suits (no bikinis)
3 towels
3 pairs of shoes (one closed toe)
Laundry bag
Pillow
Sleeping bag
Toiletries: soap, shampoo,
toothbrush, hairbrush
•
•
•
•
Teddy bear or other bedtime item
Baseball glove
Fishing pole
Flip-flops for showering
•
•
Food of any kind
Bikinis (string or otherwise) Please
bring a swimsuit appropriate for an
active camp environment.
One-piece or tankinis only.
Optional Items
•
•
•
•
Camera (disposable is a good
idea)
Flashlight and batteries
Games, books, comics, cards
Sunglasses
Items to Leave At Home
•
•
•
•
•
•
Cell phones
Valuables: money, iPods, iPads,
computers
Cigarettes, lighters or matches
Drugs or alcohol
Knives/weapons of any kind
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.
Transportation to and from Residential 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.)
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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
three nurses and one oncologist at Camp to work in the Med Shed to help
with everyone’s health.
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. On Sunday, July 12th 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.
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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 even 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 a 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.
Day Camp Packing List: *Please ensure that all belongings are labelled*
Camp Robin Hood provides a towel service for campers, so you do not need
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.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Rain Boots
Rain jacket
A hat
2 bathing suits (please send your child in a bathing suit and pack one
extra)
Change of clothes
Camp Ooch button (you will make one on the first day)
Water bottle
Lunch (Please pack a lunch that does not need refrigeration)
Communication with Parents:
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.
A Typical Day
at Day Camp
Arrival
Circle Time
Archery
Gymnastics
Swimming
LUNCH
Rest Hour
Karate
Swimming
Snack & Crafts
Departure
Day Camp Transportation
Page 20
Located in Markham, Camp Robin Hood is conveniently close to some
GTA communities but not all. Therefore, we offer two options from which
families can choose. Detailed instructions on drop-off and pick-up will be
communicated closer to session start dates.
Option 1: Drop-off & Pick-up
For families who can drive their kids to Camp daily or who can organize
convenient car-pools.
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 notice
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YOUNG ADULT AND 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 during inspiring and focused programs. The
suggested path through the Ooch Leadership Program would be as follows:
Year 1 - (Age 14) Duke of Edinburgh program
Year 2 - (Age 15) Teen leadership and Social Club and Bruce Trail Camping Trip
Year 3 - (Age 16) LIT 1 or High School Credit Program and Algonquin Park Camping Trip
Year 4 - (Age 17) Upstream and Dog Sledding
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 5 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 allows LIT 2s to develop their counseling skills while in the role of an assistant camp
counsellor. Working alongside experienced and skilled cabin counsellors and activity leaders, LIT 2s will learn firsthand 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 10 day/9 night canoe trip adventure on the
French River. This program allows leadership participants to extend their knowledge of paddling, out tripping and
camping, leadership principles and styles.
High School Credit Program
Camp Oochigeas offers a high school credit for participants in the residential leadership program. As part of the
program campers will work towards a Grade 11 Physical Education credit by participating in a Ministry approved camp
curriculum. Through a canoe trip and camp workshops and lessons, participants will be guided, tested and challenged
to work towards a high school credit. Participants must attend Session 3 and 7scape.
Year-Round Leadership Programs
Page 22
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 building resumes for jobs or
school applications. When a camper signs up for any of our residential
leadership programs, they will automatically be registered in the program. As
well, Ooch will be offering In-City workshops for interested campers which will
help members stay on track while progressing through their levels.
Algonquin Park Fall 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 set up tents under the stars.
Dog Sledding
The Dog Sledding expedition is a four-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 on the world famous Bruce
Trail. Young leaders will experience beautiful hiking trails right 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 at Ooch Downtown. The focus of the group is split between
having a great time, adventures with your Camp Ooch friends, and exploring
leadership opportunities. The TLSC is a teen-driven club; this means that YOU
choose the volunteer, workshop and social activities. The group meets every
three to four weeks on Saturdays.
MEDICAL CARE AT CAMP
Page 23
A Message from the Med Shed
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 Residential Camp: Campers are medically supervised by a
highly skilled team of professionals, consisting of an oncologist and team of
three 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
medications, first aid and unexpected illnesses.
While at Day Camp: Campers are supervised by an oncology nurse. This
nurse is equipped to provide routine and some oncology specific care.
Michaila Aitcheson
Camp Oochigeas Nursing Team Lead
Oncology R.N.
Hospital for Sick Children
maitcheson@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 doing the “hula-hop” in the dining hall.
We look forward to seeing your child at Ooch and creating camp memories all
year round!
Sincerely,
Camp Oochigeas Nursing Staff
Michaila Aitcheson
Jennifer Baron
Jennifer Baron
Camp Oochigeas Nurse Coordinator
Oncology R.N.
Hospital for Sick Children
jbaron@ooch.org
MEDICAL CARE AT RESIDENTIAL CAMP
Page 24
The Med Shed
Our medical facility at Residential 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 is 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 Residential 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 either at SickKids or Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. Please note that we cannot give chemo at Day
Camp or Ooch Downtown.
Bloodwork at Residential Camp
We cannot do finger pokes at Camp. If your child needs bloodwork at Residential Camp, it must be taken from his or
her central line or from a vein.
Getting Sick at Residential Camp
If your child becomes sick, we have a number of medications to help manage illness 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 Med Shed
The Med Shed 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 medical teams have the experience to identify oncology specific concerns and will
arrange for additional support if necessary. We do not provide 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.
Illness 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.
General Medical Information
Page 25
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.
Receiving Medicine at Camp
Nurses administer all medications at Camp; this includes vitamins, herbal remedies and as-needed medications. Meds
are administered at mealtimes and before bed in the Med Shed (for Residential 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 medical 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.
CAMP POLICIES
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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 four main camp rules:
NO UNSUPERVISED ACTIVITY
NO PUT DOWNS OR BULLYING
NO PHYSICAL VIOLENCE
NO CELL PHONES AT CAMP
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.
•
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, computers, MP3 players or games. If found,
these items will be taken away from campers.
Please review these expectations with your camper before they arrive at
Camp.
The Camper Commitment:
“I commit to: working hard at Camp, trying my
best, being fair, following the rules, working
well with my counsellors and other campers,
being honest and being responsible for my
belongings and my room at Camp.”
Page 27
Contact between Campers and Staff Volunteers
As our year-round programs continue to multiply with weekend and
evening programs, we must also make sure we are keeping up with the
current risks to children’s safety and managing contact between campers and
staff outside programs. 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 SickKids – you
will be able to reconnect with fellow campers and favourite counsellors, and to
meet new friends!
Social Networking and Camp
Camp Ooch can be found online at ooch.org, @campooch on Twitter,
@campoochigeas on Instagram and at facebook.com/campooch. We
appreciate that the use of blogs or online message boards 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 message boards to respect the nature
of our Camp as well as the personal honour 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.
Page 28
HOW DO I SIGN UP FOR PROGRAMS?
Each camper family is issued a unique Family ID# (password) and username. Three times a year you will receive a
Families of Oochigeas Newsletter outlining up-coming programs, and shortly thereafter you will be invited by email to
apply for the programs on our secure registration site. Our programs are divided into three seasons:
Spring/Summer:
Registration late in March
Fall:
Registration late August
Winter:
Registration late November
MEDICAL FORMS
In order for our medical team to provide excellent care to your child while at Camp, we require certain medical
documents to be completed. Applications will not be processed without the necessary forms completed. The following
forms are available on the Medical Forms section of the Online Registration site.
1. Parent/ Guardian Medical Form (Formerly M1): Must be completed by a parent/guardian for every child new to
Camp, and annually for all campers before attending summer programs.
2. Physician Medical Form (Formerly M2): Completed by a camper’s physician or contact nurse.
*NEW IN 2015* If your camper has been to Ooch before and has been off-treatment for 2+ years (and
they see their oncologist less than every 3 months) then only the Parent/ Guardian Medical Form (M1) is
required.
If you are a new camper, on-treatment, within two years of completing treatment or see your oncologist
monthly we will ask that you complete the Physician Medical Form (M2) annually to make sure we have all
the information to keep your child safe at camp.
3. Pre-Program on Treatment Form (Formerly M3): Must be completed by a camper’s physician or contact nurse
for campers on-treatment, or for those who have had a significant change in health status since their M2 was last
filled out. The M3 must be completed within three weeks of a camper attending Camp.
4. The Seasonal Medical Update Form (Formerly MU): Completed by a parent/guardian when signing up campers
for a new season of programs (i.e. fall, winter, spring).
CONFIRMATIONS
During each season, once your camper’s application has been received and processed, and the necessary medical
forms have been submitted, you will receive via email a Camper Confirmation indicating which programs your child is
confirmed in and which he/she may be waitlisted for.
CANCELLATIONS
Approximately one week before a scheduled program to which your child is confirmed you will receive an email with
the final details and travel arrangements (where applicable). It is extremely important that you reply immediately to
indicate that your child is still coming or let us know if you need to cancel. This will allow us to make the necessary
arrangements for volunteers, materials, food and transportation, or invite waitlisted campers to attend in event of
cancellations. Failure to RSVP means that other waitlisted campers may miss the opportunity to attend a program and
results in inefficient use of volunteer time and camp resources.
NEW CAMPER FAMILY INFORMATION SESSIONS
Page 29
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 Nurse Coordinators
Ask any questions you may have
See a slideshow and pictures of Camp
Learn how to prepare your child for missing home
Please call our Program Admin Team today to let them know if you are able to join us. They can be reached at
416-961-6624 or registration@ooch.org
If you are not able to attend, but would like the chance to learn more about Camp, please call the Director of
Programs, Sarah Nelles, at 416-961-6624 or registration@ooch.org
Camp Oochigeas | 464 Bathurst Street | Toronto, ON M5T 2S6 | T: 416.961.6624 | F: 416.961.2267 | E: oochigeas@ooch.org
ooch.org | facebook.com/campooch | @campooch