Camp Joy’s Covid-19 Statement
Dear Camp Joy Families and Partners,
As you know, the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic has had an extensive impact on our world and our communities. The Camp Joy staff and board of directors have been hard at work carefully reviewing the public health recommendations from the CDC and state of Ohio as well as the American Camp Association. In addition, we have been monitoring timelines for reducing social distancing and increasing group gathering size.
Camp Joy has made the difficult decision to cancel all overnight camp programs for summer 2020. The recommended social distancing, group sizes, and risk mitigation played a large factor in this decision. Given the nature of camp and the activities our campers participate in, this is the safest decision for our campers, our staff, and the families to which we send them home.
We understand that this decision will impact you and your campers. We know that you count on Camp Joy for opportunities for your campers to be supported as they develop new skills, confidence, and independence. There is nothing that we love more than serving you through safe, fun, and life-changing programs. Camp is truly alive with the sounds of laughter and singing as campers learn, grow, and succeed during our summer months. However, we must keep the safety of all as the primary factor in our decision making.
Complaining about the economic impact of the cancellation of camp this summer is not something we want to do. However, we cannot overlook that this will place a significant burden on the financial health of Camp Joy. If you have paid camp fees already, you may choose to donate these to Camp Joy to help us continue operations. You may also choose to receive a refund. Please reach out to Camp Client Relations Manager Jake McGinty at [email protected] or 513.630.0260 to donate or request a refund.
We know that this is yet another disappointment for you and your camper as a result of COVID-19. Please know that the Camp Joy staff shares your disappointment. What has given us comfort is that Camp Joy has a long history of overcoming obstacles. From our roots in the West End after the floods of 1937 to today’s global pandemic – we will continue to grow and serve children, adults, and families through life-long experience based learning.
Thank you for your commitment to Camp Joy. We cannot wait to see you when we are able to safely reopen our doors!
Stay well,
Erin Policinski, Camps Director