Tell us about Camp Kiwanee Day Camp’s partnership with the town of Hanson.
Camp Fire USA Eastern Massachusetts Council is working in collaboration with the Kiwanee Recreation Commission to bring a day camp to Camp Kiwanee. We are excited to bring this resource to the town and to have youth once again fill the site each summer. The site features a waterfront on Maquan Pond, a playing field, a volleyball court, numerous cabins, bath houses, a screen house, a pavilion, and trails and wetlands to explore.

What is the History of Camp Kiwanee?

In 1906 Albert Burrage built “The Needles” lodge as a summer home for his family. Shortly after completion a fire destroyed the house, but it was rebuilt in 1908 and remains on the property. Today the house is used for weddings and local performances. In 1922, Burrage sold “The Needles” to the Camp Fire Girls of Greater Boston, who called the camp “The Kiwanis Club of Boston, Camp for Camp Fire Girls.” Camp Kiwanis opened on June 25, 1923 with 250 girls attending from throughout New England. In 1957, the name was changed from Camp Kiwanis to Camp Kiwanee, said to mean “spirit of joy and youth.” It remained a Camp Fire residential camp until 1979 when Camp Fire sold the property to the town of Hanson. The property has become a treasured town resource and we are excited to return to this site by reestablishing a Camp Fire presence on the property through our co-ed day camp.

Who is the Camp Director?

Our Camp Director, Amy May, is the full time Program Director for Camp Fire. During the summer her duties are camp related only. She has a Masters Degree in Environmental Studies, over twenty years experience as an educator and has mentored other educators in various settings. She grew up going to camp and has worked at camps in a variety of roles including as director at Camp Ponkawissett for two seasons prior to becoming the director for Kiwanee.

How do you hire and screen staff?
Each Camp Kiwanee senior counselor is at least 19 years of age or older and is assisted by a junior counselor who is 16 or 17. All staff members fill out a thorough application, undergo a thorough interview process, and three references are checked. In addition all staff must have a criminal background and sexual offender check. We look for people with camp experience or experience with children, who are responsible and mature, good listeners, capable of learning, cheerful, outgoing, creative, and with a good sense of humor. Staff participate in an intensive week-long training process, and in-service training happens throughout the summer.

Is Camp Kiwanee licensed from the city and/or state?
Yes, in Massachusetts, recreational camps for children must be inspected and licensed by the local board of heath. In order to be licensed, the camp must meet all regulatory standards established by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH).

If you would like a copy of the state regulations of additional information concerning recreational camps for children, go to the MA Department of Public Health Website.

What is a typical camp day?

Our first and last camp days are slightly different to incorporate site, staff and group orientations and celebrations. Each session also features special day events and opportunities for performances.

I work from 8am until 5:00 pm, do you offer extended day programs?
We do! Morning extended day is 7 am-9 am and afternoon extended day is 4:30 pm-6 pm. Youth participate in various games, arts & crafts, and self choice activities. Activities choices are driven by campers’ requests and creativity.

Are there any programs for children older than 11?
At this time we do not offer programming for youth older than 11. If interest exists we will offer expanded offerings in the future. We do offer a Junior Counselor program and employment for youth 16-17 years of age.

Do you offer scholarships/financial aid?
Yes. Our scholarships, called camperships, are available on a first-come basis. Please see the dates and rates page for more information.

Can my child attend multiple sessions?
Yes. If you desire, your child may attend all sessions of Camp Kiwanee.

What about lunches and snacks?
Campers are to bring a nourishing lunch, snacks, and water every day. It is important that our campers have the nourishment and water assisting them in their active and hot day. It is the first step in keeping your child safe at camp. Please note refrigeration is limited, so food items that spoil easily should not be included in your child’s lunch. A small insulated lunch bag with a small ice pack will keep lunches cool.

What should campers bring to camp?
Please label all of your child’s clothing and personal effects with a nametag or indelible ink. The following is a list of items to bring to camp.

ITEMS TO BRING EACH DAY

· Backpack or small duffel bag

· Sunscreen

· Hat

· Light jacket

· Non-perishable lunch and 2 snacks

· Water Bottle

· Swimsuit

· Towel

· Water shoes

· Closed-toed shoes (like sneakers)

BRING IF RAIN IS FORECAST

· Raincoat and pants

· Change of clothes, including socks

· Boots or other waterproof foot gear

· Plastic bag to hold wet clothes

Site procedures
When driving in to the site at pick up and drop off times, traffic on the access road will be directed and managed by camp staff. The traffic will be well managed by a communication system that should not pose too many restrictions and is intended to keep traffic flowing on the narrow entrance road. Brief delays may occur to allow cars in or out of the site. If driving to the site at other times follow the entrance road to the parking lot and please report to the Camp Office located in the first building to the right of the Needles Lodge. Maps and procedures will be sent to families once registered for our program.