“Camp changes kids. And it changes them because it challenges them.”
On a beautiful Saturday morning in October, we hosted an event out at Camp Moody to celebrate the support of our founding donors. This was an opportunity for them to see and experience what we’ve been doing to enhance the camp and to hear updates about our vision and plans for creating an accessible, outdoor camp experience for all.
Andy Carlson, a member of our Metro Board of Directors, kicked off the event with a warm welcome on behalf of the YMCA. Vanessa Petrea, a trustee on the Hays CISD school board, spoke about the remarkable partnership between the school district and the YMCA—the natatorium at Camp Moody was built because of the support of the school district. This partnership has focused on nurturing talent and fostering success in swim and aquatic events, including water polo.
“The success of our water polo programs is a testament to the dedication of our students and the tireless efforts of our coaches and support staff. It’s a reflection of the opportunities we provide within our schools and the drive of our young athletes to reach their full potential. Without the YMCA, none of this would have been possible.” –Vanessa Petrea
Paul Hoffman, former co-chair of the Camp Moody Capital Campaign, talked about the power of camp in developing kids. Camp provides a platform for kids and their families to break their comfortable routines inside, get a little bit dirty, and discover something new and fun outside.
“Kids develop and thrive through the powerful combination of adventure and adversity.”—Paul Hoffman
Paul also shared the history of the property and the development of the Camp—thanks to George Yonge’s vision and generous gift of land and the path paved by many supporters including the Moody Foundation, Hays CISD, the Nelson Puett Foundation, and so many more. We are now poised to build more and offer more, including overnight camps, where kids will be able to thrive and grow.
“If we don’t teach our kids to respect nature, then we can’t expect them to honor and protect it.” –Paul Hoffman
Greater Austin YMCA President and CEO, Kathy Kuras, spoke about the Y’s commitment to honoring and recognizing all our founding donors and their gifts, whether it is a brick, a chair, a table, or a cabin. Each gift has mattered so much to the kids who caught their first fish at Kermie Fishing Rock, launched a canoe from the waterfront, or have run on the land generously given to us by the Yonge family.
Brian Carter, Chief Operations Officer, previewed our new site development and long-range facility plan, which includes the building of overnight cabins, dining hall, event space, expanded accessible trail system, and more. Attendees were also provided with an opportunity to tour the full property.
Thousands of kids have enjoyed Camp Moody since we opened in May 2020 because of the generosity of our donors, and we were so excited to celebrate that impact during the event. You can view photos from the event here on Facebook.
Thank you to ALL of our founding donors for making camp dreams possible for kids and families in our community!
