New Lodge to complete Camp Tecumseh expansion

"Kampen Lodge will provide campers with a blend of physical, mental and spiritual endeavors," said Dave Wright, Camp Tecumseh YMCA Executive Director. "This wonderful facility will allow campers to be challenged physically, to develop and display creativity, and to nourish their soul through active worship or quiet reflection. It will be one of the most unique camp facilities in the country."

Wright was speaking of the new 17,000-square foot activity center, now under construction at Camp Tecumseh YMCA, west of Delphi along the Tippecanoe River. It is the final project in a seven million dollar expansion of the popular camp and outdoor center, one of the largest youth camping facilities in the country. Named in recognition of the Emerson and Barbara Kampen family, a three-generation Camp Tecumseh family and a major contributor to the facility, construction is scheduled for completion in time for campers next summer.

"Their have been many major contributors to this project," explained Wright, "but the Kampen family took the lead to make our quiet campaign a success. When he was still with us, Emerson was a great believer in Camp Tecumseh and Barbara and the children wanted to do something that would keep Camp Tecumseh strong for years to come."

Since the 500-acre camp operates year-round, campers need quality activity space regardless of the weather. Generally activities take place outside at the swimming pools, lake, stables, shooting ranges or on the miles of hiking trails. Nevertheless, some activities need indoor space. Crafts, line dancing, aerobics, and training sessions work better in a confined area. During inclement weather, Kampen Lodge will even allow campers to take part in indoor rock climbing, archery, drama, a wide array of arts and crafts, and games.

Another special area of the center will be the library and nature room. There campers will be able to use the wildlife viewing area to watch birds, small mammals and the occasional deer as they come to the feeding stations. Full body mounts of fox, otter, bear and other animals will give campers an up-close look at animals that are elusive in the wild. The library shelves will have both books about game as well as inspirational novels and periodicals for young adults. There will even be resource materials for camp counselors for both activities and cabin devotions. Kampen Lodge will seat 350 persons with additional breakout rooms for training conferences and other events. Camp Tecumseh has already been selected to host a 16-state YMCA camping conference in both 2007 and 2008. The new center will be a welcome addition the second year.

Camp Tecumseh YMCA is a chartered member of the YMCA of the USA and is a not-for-profit, charitable organization. Nearly 35,000 persons will take part in programs there this year. So far in 2006 more than $150,000 in scholarships have been provided by donors for lessadvantaged youth to take part in Tecumseh programs.