YMCA Camp Ernst Announces Major Renovations | People

CINCINNATI, OH (FOX19) - Since 1928, thousands of youth from throughout the region and around the world come to the beautiful, sprawling, park-like setting of YMCA Camp Ernst where they strengthen their skills and make diverse friendships in an environment that stresses positive character values.  This summer, on their way to check-in, campers will see an all new Welcome and Health Center under construction. Funded with a lead gift from the Schiff Foundation, the new Center is part of the first phase of what is the camp’s first major multi-million dollar renovation since the 1970s.

YMCA Camp Ernst families, friends and neighbors are invited to Bringing in the New Light – Sunday, May 6 from 4 to 6 p.m. on camp grounds – to thank the generous philanthropists whose contributions have helped the YMCA raise $3M of its $4M For the Love of Camp Ernst Capital Campaign goal and to tour the facilities and see what’s in store for the future. RSVP’s are encouraged by calling 513-362-2012. 

 “Thanks to the generosity of so many local donors, the For the Love of Camp Ernst Capital Campaign is off to a great start. As a result, Camp Ernst is able to make some much need renovations which will ensure that camp continues to provide the best experiences to youth for generations to come. We are now entering the community phase of this campaign and will be engaging alumni, parents and community members in helping us reach our goal”, said Sandy Berlin Walker, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati.

Camp Renovation

Also included in the first phase of the expansion and renovation are two new bath houses. Other future projects to be completed as funding is secured, include: dining hall and kitchen upgrades; and a new Valley swimming pool, E-Team longhouse for teens, camper cabin, horse barn, and an arts center that will have an art studio, dance room and performance area.

Co-chairs Frank Henson and Jennifer Shockey are leading the For the Love of Camp Ernst Capital Campaign.

About YMCA Camp Ernst

Accredited by the American Camping Association, YMCA Camp Ernst welcomes more than 850 teens and 2,200 children including 20 international counselors. (Thanks to caring donors over 300 kids attend on scholarship annually.) Featured camp activities include: horseback riding, five high ropes course elements, 100 ft. waterslide, banana boat rides, swimming, hiking, archery, biking, campfires and capture-the-flag. Unique to Camp Ernst is the fine arts program that features music, drama, dance and visual arts. An important component of all camp activities and programs is leadership development which is delivered as an age-appropriate, phased program that helps pre-teens and teens hone skills that will serve them well as they enter adulthood and seek to establish careers. The Leader-In-Training program focuses on grooming campers to become counselors. In fact, 75% of the current counselors were once campers and 87% of the summer staff was part of camp the previous year.