As summer draws near, the Olympic Peninsula YMCA is gearing up to welcome youth and families back to one of its most cherished seasonal events: summer camp.
With programs running across all three of its branches – Port Angeles, Sequim and Jefferson County (Port Townsend) – this year’s camps promise more opportunities and more fun than ever before.
“Summer camp is one of the biggest programs we offer each year,” says Sarah Scagliotti, Program Executive for Youth Development. “It’s not just about keeping kids busy – it’s about building confidence, preparing them to learn and helping them care about others.”
Each branch will host a series of weekly themed camps for kids ages five to 12, with a focus on accessibility and inclusion. At the Y Summer Camps, kids find their “why,” friendship and fun – with activities built to reinforce community, connection and creativity.
This year brings some exciting updates:
- Expanded camp weeks in Sequim: More weeks are now available for families in the Sequim area, offering greater flexibility for summer scheduling.
- New location in Port Angeles: In addition to the Port Angeles branch, a second campsite will be hosted at Dry Creek Elementary School.
- Extended Play Times: For working parents, extended play options are available which include early drop-off starting at 7 a.m. and late pick up until 6 p.m.
Weekly camp themes
To keep things fresh and exciting, each week of camp revolves around a different theme:
- Animal Exploration (Sequim & Port Angeles only, early start week)
- Mixed-Media Mania
- Space Cadets
- Awesome Athletes
- Let’s Build It
- Full STEAM Ahead (STEM-focused)
- Water Week
- Mess Express
- Game Show Mania
These themed weeks offer children chances to try new activities, build skills and connect with peers through shared experiences, all while having a blast.
Calling potential counselors!
Another highlight of the Y’s summer initiative is its coming staff hiring event, Sunday, May 18 at the YMCA of Sequim (610 N 5th Ave.). The dynamic, informal gathering lets potential camp counselors meet the team, show off their camp spirit and engage in fun activities like leading songs or games. Whether you’re already an applicant or just exploring, it’s an open invitation to be part of something special.
“It’s an opportunity to get to know more about Y camps while letting us get to know about the candidates as they show us their camp counselor personalities,” Scagliotti explains. “But more than that, it’s a chance to build connections with other like-minded people who love working with youth.”
Candidates can sign up for the event or apply for the job here.
Support for every family
As a nonprofit, the YMCA is committed to making its camps financially accessible. “We never want cost to be a barrier,” Scagliotti says. Need-based scholarships are available, and the Y works directly with families to ensure everyone has a chance to participate.
Just announced: Registration for preschool-age summer camp in Port Townsend, for children ages three to five has just been added to the summer roster. This addition marks a continued commitment to serving kids of all ages.
Enroll now and give your child a summer full of memories.
