The programs at the YMCA Resident Camping Branch focus on much more than activities, classes, and fun.  We are a Mission driven organization that focuses on a specific Vision and a set of Program Goals and Objectives.

Program Goals and Objectives

To develop self-confidence and self-respect and an appreciation of their own worth as individuals.

• Each camper will be able to demonstrate an increase of knowledge and/or skill in at least 2 program areas.
• By the end of the week each Camper will be able to share something they have achieved during the past year or at camp, and will also set a goal for personal growth

To develop a faith for daily living based upon Judeo-Christian teachings that they may thereby be helped in achieving their highest potential as children of God; while being sensitive to respecting individual beliefs and including all people in YMCA programs regardless of their religion.

• By the end of the first full day, each camper will be able to state the 4 YMCA of San Diego County Character Values (Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility) and explain what the colors represent.
• By the end of the week, each camper will be able to give at least 3 examples of how they demonstrated a character value while they were at camp.
• Each camper will have the opportunity to listen to a story or share in a discussion or activity that serves as an example of the importance of respecting diverse beliefs, views, cultures, and religions.

To grow as responsible members of their families and citizens of their communities.

• By the end of each day, campers will be able to give at least 2 examples of how they contributed to the cabin group or village.
• By the end of the week, each camper will be able to describe opportunities they had to make decisions regarding activity choices, behavior, and contributions to their cabin or village.
• Each camper will be able to describe how taking responsibility for their behavior and choices, or not taking responsibility, affected their experience and also the experience of others.

To appreciate that health of mind and body is a sacred gift and that physical fitness and mental well-being are conditions to be achieved and maintained.

• Every full day of camp, each camper will participate in at least one physical activity and have to opportunity to participate in 3 or more physically active program areas.
• By the end of the week campers will be able to demonstrate effective ways to warm up before exercise and cool down afterwards.
• Each camper will be able to give an example of an experience at camp that helped to build their physical health and also one that helped to build their emotional health.

To recognize the worth of all persons, and to work for multicultural understanding.

• By the end of the week, each camper will be able to describe at least 3 new friends that are from a different country, or culture.  They should be able to share ideas about how their new friends are different from themselves, and how they are the same.
• Each camper will have the opportunity to listen to a story or share in a discussion or activity that serves as an example of the importance and value of diverse cultures.
• Campers will be able to describe how their cabin developed a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone, including campers and staff who live or have lived in different countries, who have a different primary language, or who have special needs.