A little 30-acre pasture along the Tippecanoe River in Carroll County is now one of the largest and most successful YMCA camps in America.

"The original founders would be thrilled to see both the quality of camp as well as the amazing growth we have experienced since 1924," commented Dave Wright, Executive Director of the 500- acre Camp Tecumseh, located six miles west of Delphi. "Besides the great enrollment and facilities, they would be so happy to see that the development of Christian character has remained an important aspect of the Tecumseh experience."

This year represents the camp's 85th year of continuous operation. "Camp Tecumseh is blessed to be thriving, even in this challenging economy," explained Wright. "Campers love the sheer joy of camp and parents appreciate that we partner with them in teaching traditional values. Moms tell me that Camp Tecumseh is one of the last things they will cut from their budget."

In honor of its 85th anniversary, all former campers, counselors, and camp friends are invited to a Homecoming Celebration that will be held Sept. 5 beginning at 10 a.m. at the camp. Pre-registration is required by calling the camp at (765) 564-2898. Lots of traditional camp activities will be offered including swimming at the pools and the lake, archery, climbing walls, and horseback riding, and a big campfire program that evening.

A special feature of the event will be the unveiling of a new camp book, "From the Heart: A Collection of Your Camp Tecumseh Stories." Each family attending the 85th Homecoming will receive a free copy of the book and many of the story authors will be in attendance.

YMCA Camp Tecumseh is a charitable organization whose vision is to provide premier camp experiences in the country to children and teens of all backgrounds. The camp strives to create a joyful learning environment that will involve campers in situations and activities that will help them grow in confidence, character, and faith.

More information can be found at www.camptecumseh. org.