Sunday, July 7, 2013

The Camp Song - "Many Cultures, One World

A few camp "Parents" asked for the lyrics to our "official" Heritage Camp song "Many Cultures, One World".  I managed to find a copy of the song, and posted the lyrics below.  If you would like the music, let me know and I'll scan a copy!

Thanks,

Cathy


“Many Countries, One World”

Refrain:
Many cultures, one world
Many countries, big and small
Many cultures, one world,
We’re together one and all.

Verse One:
We’ll meet new friends,
And learn about each other.
We’ll treat our friends
Like sister and like brother.

Refrain


Verse Two:
We’ll sing and dance,
Play instruments together,
Come join the fun
In any kind of weather

Refrain


Verse Three:
Around the world
We’ll visit many places.
We want to meet
A few more friendly faces.

Refrain

Words and music by Sue Mawbey.

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

China Camp to Perform!

China Camp to Perform!!

Tomorrow, Thursday, June 20, China Camp will be performing in the gym at 1:30. If you have a child, or children, in China Camp, please plan on attending if possible. Kathy always does an amazing job with Music in China Camp!

Thanks,
Cathy

Parade of Nations

Heritage Camp 2013

Parade of Nations will be outside this year; I "know" the weather will be cooperative.

Individual camps will not be performing during Parade of Nations this year. However, be sure to ask your child's Camp Coordinator if they plan on doing a "performance" prior to Parade of Nations. 

China Camp, Eastern European Camp, Latin American Camp, and Global Camp have planned events. Korea Camp invites parents to come and visit a Music Class, a Ta Kwon Do class, or drop in to a classroom to check out the cool activities.

Hope to see you all on Friday at 1:30 for the Parade of Nations!

Parade of Nations! Parade of Nations!

*****Parade of Nations*****
21 June 2013

Parade of Nations will be a little different this year; we will be parading around the outside of the building and meeting on the soccer field.  There have been too many people in the gym the past two years; safety and comfort have been issues with such a large group.

Parade of Nations will begin at 1:30, and Campers will exit through doors on the west side of the building.  Parents are welcome to position themselves anywhere along the parade route, which will travel in front of the school, around the east end of the building, past the playground, and end on the soccer field. There is sidewalk along the parade route, so the walking should be easy. There will be plenty of space for parents to get those great photos of their kids. Parents may want to arrive a little early and “stake a space” on the soccer field with a lawn chair.  The field will be marked, so please leave the spaces for campers available for the campers. 

Your child is welcome to dress in “cultural” clothing or wear their Heritage Camp T-shirt, but keep in mind we will be sitting on the grass.  The “Performance Portion” of Parade of Nations will be limited to singing the Camp Song and retiring of the country flags. 
After the flags have been retired, we will dismiss the Campers to their classrooms. PLEASE wait until all campers are off the soccer field before heading to your child’s classroom.  We are trying to move 377 campers as safely as possible, so we need to get them, under the direction of their teachers, to the classrooms first.  Thank you J

I know this is a different approach, but last year there were way too many people in the gym, it was chaotic to move groups of kids out of the gym, and it was stressful for the campers.  Parade of Nations is a long-standing and well-loved tradition of Heritage Camp, and we don’t want it to disappear.  However, we need to find a way to have this event be safe, and fun, for the campers and the parents.  We re-evaluate the process every year, and although it is very much like herding cats, we try to keep is safe and fun.

Thanks for your cooperation,
Cathy and Pam

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Heritage Camp Events


 On Tuesday, June 18 at 7:00 pm the documentary "Somewhere Between" will be shown at Country Inns and Suites.  Please join us; the directors suggests viewers need to be at least 13 years old.

Wednesday, June 19 is the 8th Annual Heritage Camp Picnic!  The picnic will be at Grand Rapids Township Park.  Hot dogs, both regular and vegetarian,buns, and condiments will be provided.  Please bring a dish to pass and table setting, and drinks for your family. I always get my "dish to pass" from the deli at D&W!!  The picnic will start around 5:00, and hot dogs will probably be ready around 6:00.  There are "inside restrooms" and playground equipment (Swings, slides, etc).  There are also tennis courts, volleyball nets, and a baseball diamond.  Don't miss the fun!


Monday, June 17, 2013

Room Assignments for Heritage Camp 2013

Heritage Camp 2013

Greetings!  We are ready to roll!

These Camps will be in the "Blue Neighborhood"
Preschool Camp room B-1
Eastern European Camp, rooms B-2, B-3, B-4
Latin American Camp, rooms B-5, B-6, B-7
Global Camp room B-9
Music room B-8

Green Neighborhood - Korea Camp
Music room G-1
Korea K room G-2
Korea 1 & 2 room G-3
Korea 3 room G-4
Korea 4 room  G-5
Korea 5 room G-6
Korea 6 room G-7
Ta Kwan Do - G-8 (also used to stash Teen Camp stuff)
Teen Camp room G-8 & G-9

China Camp will be in the White Neighborhood
China 4 rooms W-1 & W-2
China 6 room W-4
China 5 room W-5
China 3 room W-6
China 2 room W-7
China K-1 room W-9

Look for signs in the hall, or ask someone to point you in the right direction!  See you tomorrow.

Saturday, June 15, 2013

Somewhere Between

The documentary "Somewhere Between" will be shown at 7:00 Tuesday evening.  I forgot to put that piece of information in the first post!  Sorry!

Thanks,
Cathy

Friday, June 14, 2013

Movie: Somewhere Between

Tuesday, June 18, 2013
At Country Inn and Suites
Join us to watch

“Somewhere Between”

A documentary following four teen age girls adopted from China


If you are interested in attending, please RSVP to Cathy Wood at amycathydave@comcast.net
by noon, Tuesday, June 18.

There are 60 seats available; if you attend with your child or children, please keep in mind that
***the director of this film suggests viewers be at least 13 years old.** 
Sensitive issues are discussed in this film, we urge you to use your best judgment.

Please be advised: “trained professionals” will not be present.

Great Wall of Juice Boxes

The Great Wall of Juice Boxes!

Please help us build our "Great Wall of Juice Boxes" for Kids Food Basket.  We have done this the past several years; it actually started when Kelly Olive was the Teen Camp Coordinator. We would like to continue this tradition; we have so much, and one package of 100% juice juice boxes can help those who have so little.

We will build our Great Wall of Juice Boxes with your help!

Thanks,
Cathy

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Allergy/Medical Bracelets


Allergy/Medical Bracelets:

If you indicated on your registration form that your child has an allergy or medical condition, please be sure to pick up your child's bracelet on Tuesday morning. We will have a "Bracelet Station" in front of the school.

Thanks,
Cathy

Heritage Camp Assemblies!


Heritage Camp 2013 Assemblies
Tuesday: Mariachi Band

Wednesday: Kevin Kammeraad "The Tomato Collection" Guy 

Thursday: Carrrie Morris - Shadow Puppetry


Heritage Camp; Where do I go?

Heritage Camp 2013 June 18-21 
Knapp Forest Elementary School

The "Camps" will be in their same locations:

China Camp in the Young 5's, Kindergarten, 1st, & 2nd Grade Wing

Korea Camp in the 5th & 6th Grade Wing

Preschool Camp, Global Camp, Latin American Camp, and Eastern European Camp will be in the 3rd & 4th Grade Wing

Signs will be posted, but Tuesday morning is "intense" from about 8:30-9:30 :)  If you are a returning Camper, you know where to go!  Have fun!

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

International Market Place

The International Market Place will be open each day from 8:45-2:15 Tuesday through Friday.  The Market Place will be closed on Friday from 1:30-2:00 for the Parade of Nations, but will re-open for a short while after the Parade of Nations.

The Market Place crew has been working hard to bring items from many cultures to Heritage Camp.  Please be sure to take a few minutes to explore the sales tables during Heritage Camp.  You will probably find several items that appeal to you!

Sunday, June 2, 2013

Facebook Page Up-dated, Heritage Camp Info

The FFIC Heritage Camp facebook page has been updated, and current information is now "front and center".

We are trying to go as paperless as possible this year, so please check the blog, the Facebook page, and pass the word.  Thanks-Cathy



2013 Heritage Camp

Camp Dates:  Tuesday, June 18-Friday, June 21, 2013   9:00a.m-2:00p.m.

Location:  Knapp Forest Elementary School, 4243 Knapp Valley, Grand Rapids

New for Heritage Camp 2013:
  1. Market Place will not be selling candy; please take note J
  2. Opening Ceremonies will take place Tuesday afternoon; this allows campers to acclimate to Heritage Camp a bit.
  3. PON will be changed; there is some information below, but more will information will be available on Tuesday, June 18.

Allergy Bracelet/Medical Bracelet Station: This year we are once again asking that campers who need allergy/medical bracelets pick them up at the Allergy /Medical Bracelet Station, located in front of the school.  We ask that parents initial the list each day, indicating that they picked up the bracelet and put it on their child.  On the first day, we don’t know any of the Campers, so we are asking that parents take the responsibility of making sure their child is wearing the bracelet. 
If your child is on medication, please fill out a “Medication Form” on the first day of Heritage Camp, and give it to the classroom teacher.  Forms will be available in Command Central.    Thanks for your supportJ

End of Day Dismissal Plan: As in past years, we are asking that parents check in with their camper(s) teacher(s) on Tuesday to note who will be picking up the camper at the end of each day.  Each class will have a “Sign Out” sheet.

Lunch Menu: The “Official” Camp Menu:
Tuesday: Eastern European Cuisine (Stroganoff)
Wednesday: Global Camp Cuisine (TBA, but expect rice, beans, and chicken J)
Thursday: South American Cuisine (Delicious stew, rice)
Friday: Asian Cuisine (Bulgogi, Long-life noodles, Mondu)

It is perfectly acceptable to send a “brown bag” lunch with your child if they prefer.  Parents with concerns about food are encouraged to contact our Kitchen Coordinator, Luanne (jhoekz@comcast.net) with their questions, or to arrange to go over food labels.

Please Note:  The kitchen prepares its budget to serve ONLY registered campers and volunteers.  Unfortunately, we cannot invite visitors for lunch.  We have 346 campers and about 140 Adult volunteers this year.

T-Shirts/Name Buttons: Each camper and volunteer will receive the official 2012 Heritage Camp T-shirt and a Name Button.  Please be sure to wear your button at all times; this is how you “earn” your lunch J  Only volunteers with the “official” name button will receive lunch on scheduled work days.  Thanks!

Daily Activities:  Your child will participate in music, games, attend assemblies each day, and be with peers learning about the history and culture of the country of their birth.

International Marketplace: Multicultural items will be available for purchase from 8:30-2:30 Tuesday through Thursday, and 9:00-12:30 on Friday. 

What to bring: Campers may want a light jacket or sweatshirt; the school is air-conditioned.   Because your child will be involved with International Games, classroom activities, and playground fun, tennis shoes/running shoes may be a better choice.  It would be best to leave flip-flops and Heelies at home.

Campers are also encouraged to bring playground/sports equipment (labeled with your first and last name) if they wish.  Campers may also bring money for the International Marketplace, but your child’s teacher cannot be responsible for the money.  If your child brings a brown-bag lunch, please make sure to label that with first and last name, too.

Please do not allow your child to bring electronic devices such as an ipod, Gameboy, ipods, ipads, or cell phone to Heritage Camp.  FFIC, Forest Hills Public Schools and/or Knapp Forest Elementary School cannot be held responsible for missing or damaged electronic devices.  If your child must bring a cell phone, it must be turned off and left in a backpack/book bag during the day. (Cell phone service at this school is horrible.) Mr. Miller may have different requirements for Teen Campers J

Parade of Nations:  The PON has undergone some changes for 2013. Heritage Camp is so big, and we are grateful for all our campers and volunteers, that we simply cannot have everyone gather in the gym.  We violated Fire Code last year and it can’t happen again this year.  So, PON will begin at 1:30 on Friday, June 21, and with weather permitting, the parade will happen outside. We will then convene on the soccer field behind the school to sing the “Camp Song” and have Closing Ceremonies.    More information will be available during Camp week. Please encourage your child to wear a “Cultural Outfit” or their Camp T-shirt for Parade of Nations. J

Face book:  FFIC Heritage Camp has a Face book page; check it out.  We also have an awesome web site that includes a blog.  We will make every attempt to keep the blog up-dated, but we are technologically impaired J

More questions?  Feel free to contact us at:

Cathy Wood 616.260.7195   616.365.0916  amycathydave@comcast.net
Pam Eggers 616.460.6080  pam@thinkboxcreative.com

Monday, May 27, 2013

Heritage Camp Info!!


2013 Heritage Camp

Camp Dates:  Tuesday, June 18-Friday, June 21, 2013   9:00a.m-2:00p.m.

Location:  Knapp Forest Elementary School, 4243 Knapp Valley, Grand Rapids

New for Heritage Camp 2013:
  1. Market Place will not be selling candy; please take note J
  2. Opening Ceremonies will take place Tuesday afternoon; this allows campers to acclimate to Heritage Camp a bit.
  3. PON will be changed; there is some information below, but more will information will be available on Tuesday, June 18.

Allergy Bracelet/Medical Bracelet Station: This year we are once again asking that campers who need allergy/medical bracelets pick them up at the Allergy /Medical Bracelet Station, located in front of the school.  We ask that parents initial the list each day, indicating that they picked up the bracelet and put it on their child.  On the first day, we don’t know any of the Campers, so we are asking that parents take the responsibility of making sure their child is wearing the bracelet. 
If your child is on medication, please fill out a “Medication Form” on the first day of Heritage Camp, and give it to the classroom teacher.  Forms will be available in Command Central.    Thanks for your supportJ

End of Day Dismissal Plan: As in past years, we are asking that parents check in with their camper(s) teacher(s) on Tuesday to note who will be picking up the camper at the end of each day.  Each class will have a “Sign Out” sheet.

Lunch Menu: The “Official” Camp Menu:
Tuesday: Eastern European Cuisine (Stroganoff)
Wednesday: Global Camp Cuisine (TBA, but expect rice, beans, and chicken J)
Thursday: South American Cuisine (Delicious stew, rice)
Friday: Asian Cuisine (Bulgogi, Long-life noodles, Mondu)

It is perfectly acceptable to send a “brown bag” lunch with your child if they prefer.  Parents with concerns about food are encouraged to contact our Kitchen Coordinator, Luanne (jhoekz@comcast.net) with their questions, or to arrange to go over food labels.

Please Note:  The kitchen prepares its budget to serve ONLY registered campers and volunteers.  Unfortunately, we cannot invite visitors for lunch.  We have 346 campers and about 140 Adult volunteers this year.

T-Shirts/Name Buttons: Each camper and volunteer will receive the official 2012 Heritage Camp T-shirt and a Name Button.  Please be sure to wear your button at all times; this is how you “earn” your lunch J  Only volunteers with the “official” name button will receive lunch on scheduled work days.  Thanks!

Daily Activities:  Your child will participate in music, games, attend assemblies each day, and be with peers learning about the history and culture of the country of their birth.

International Marketplace: Multicultural items will be available for purchase from 8:30-2:30 Tuesday through Thursday, and 9:00-12:30 on Friday. 

What to bring: Campers may want a light jacket or sweatshirt; the school is air-conditioned.   Because your child will be involved with International Games, classroom activities, and playground fun, tennis shoes/running shoes may be a better choice.  It would be best to leave flip-flops and Heelies at home.

Campers are also encouraged to bring playground/sports equipment (labeled with your first and last name) if they wish.  Campers may also bring money for the International Marketplace, but your child’s teacher cannot be responsible for the money.  If your child brings a brown-bag lunch, please make sure to label that with first and last name, too.

Please do not allow your child to bring electronic devices such as an ipod, Gameboy, ipods, ipads, or cell phone to Heritage Camp.  FFIC, Forest Hills Public Schools and/or Knapp Forest Elementary School cannot be held responsible for missing or damaged electronic devices.  If your child must bring a cell phone, it must be turned off and left in a backpack/book bag during the day. (Cell phone service at this school is horrible.) Mr. Miller may have different requirements for Teen Campers J

Parade of Nations:  The PON has undergone some changes for 2013. Heritage Camp is so big, and we are grateful for all our campers and volunteers, that we simply cannot have everyone gather in the gym.  We violated Fire Code last year and it can’t happen again this year.  So, PON will begin at 1:30 on Friday, June 21, and with weather permitting, the parade will happen outside. We will then convene on the soccer field behind the school to sing the “Camp Song” and have Closing Ceremonies.    More information will be available during Camp week. Your child may wear a “Cultural Outfit” or their Camp T-shirt. 

Facebook:  FFIC Heritage Camp has a Facebook page; check it out.  We also have an awesome web-site that includes a blog.  We will make every attempt to keep the blog up-dated, but we are technologically impaired J

More questions?  Feel free to contact us at:

Cathy Wood 616.260.7195   616.365.0916  amycathydave@comcast.net
Pam Eggers 616.460.6080  pam@thinkboxcreative.com

Saturday, May 25, 2013

FFIC Heritage Camp Picnic!!

8th Annual Heritage Camp Family Picnic

When?   Wednesday, June 19, 2013 5:00-8:30

Where?  Grand Rapids Township Park, 1836 East Beltline

Why?       To have a chance during Heritage Camp to relax &  
                 socialize  Bring the whole family!

Please bring table service (plates, cups, silverware), beverages for your family, and a dish to pass.  Hot dogs, both standard and veggie, and buns will be provided by FFIC. 

Grand Rapids Township Park has restrooms, a shelter, playground equipment, volleyball, tennis courts, and grassy areas for play.  Bring your sports equipment J

To help us make an estimate of how many hot dogs and buns we need to buy, please fill out the form below and drop it in the Picnic Basket on the first day of Heritage Camp.

If you can help with grilling, set-up, or clean up, please let us know.  If you have any questions, contact Susan Petrus at suspetrus@aol.com



Name:____________________________________ Phone: ___________

Number attending: _____    We would like Veggie dogs:  Yes  No

I can help with: ______grilling    ______set-up    _____clean up


Email:  __________________________________________________

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Heritage Camp Hotels


This year we have a choice of 2 different Country Inn & Suites
locations; however the rates and phone numbers for making
reservations are different! Rooms at both locations now have a microwave and
mini-fridge in all rooms. Both have the same great amenities, including a hot continental
breakfast buffet, pool, whirlpool, fitness room, laundry, game room, and fresh cookies
throughout the day.


Country Inn & Suites
3251 Deposit Dr. N.E.
(at the intersection of E. Beltline and I-96)
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
(616) 942-7000
4 miles from Camp
• $ 99.99 (plus tax) for a standard king or double-queen
• $119.99 (plus tax) for one-bedroom king or queen suite
Rooms may be reserved under the group name “HERITAGE CAMP”
Rates guaranteed thru May 23, 2013 ~ then based on availability.






Country Inn & Suites
5399 – 28th Street, S.E.
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
(616) 977-0909
9 miles from Camp
• $ 82.00 (plus tax) for double-queen guest rooms
• $102.00 (plus tax) for king suite (No queen suites available at
this location)
• Complimentary light dinner Monday-Thursday, 5-7 p.m.
Recently remodeled lobby and rooms.
Rooms may be reserved under the group name “HERITAGE CAMP”

Heritage Camp Information :)



2013 Heritage Camp

Camp Dates:  Tuesday, June 18-Friday, June 21, 2013   9:00a.m-2:00p.m.

Location:  Knapp Forest Elementary School, 4243 Knapp Valley, Grand Rapids

New for Heritage Camp 2013:
  1. Market Place will not be selling candy; please take note J
  2. Opening Ceremonies will be held at 1:30 on Tuesday, June 18.
  3. PON will be changed; there is some information below, but more will information will be available on Tuesday, June 18.

End of Day Dismissal Plan: As in past years, we are asking that parents check in with their camper(s) teacher(s) on Tuesday to note who will be picking up the camper at the end of each day.  Each class will have a “Sign Out” sheet.

Lunch Menu: The “Official” Camp Menu:
Tuesday: Eastern European Cuisine (Stroganoff)
Wednesday: Global Camp Cuisine (to be announced)
Thursday: South American Cuisine (Delicious stew, rice)
Friday: Asian Cuisine (Bulgogi, Long-life noodles, Mondu)

It is perfectly acceptable to send a “brown bag” lunch with your child if they prefer.  Parents with concerns about food are encouraged to contact our Kitchen Coordinator, Luanne (jhoekz@comcast.net) with their questions, or to arrange to go over food labels.

Please Note:  The kitchen prepares its budget to serve ONLY registered campers and volunteers.  Unfortunately, we cannot invite visitors for lunch.  We have 368 campers and about 160 Adult volunteers this year.

T-Shirts/Name Buttons: Each camper and volunteer will receive the official 2013 Heritage Camp T-shirt and a Name Button.  Please be sure to wear your button at all times; this is how you “earn” your lunch J  Only volunteers with the “official” name button will receive lunch on scheduled work days.  Thanks!

Daily Activities:  Your child will participate in music, games, attend assemblies each day, and be with peers learning about the history and culture of the country of their birth.

International Marketplace: Multicultural items will be available for purchase from 8:30-2:30 Tuesday through Thursday, and 9:00-1:00 on Friday. 

Heritage Camp Picnic: See the enclosed flyer, please.

What to bring: Campers may want a light jacket or sweatshirt; the school is air-conditioned.   Because your child will be involved with classroom activities and playground fun, tennis shoes/running shoes may be a better choice.  It would be best to leave flip-flops and Heelies at home.

Campers are also encouraged to bring playground/sports equipment (labeled with your first and last name) if they wish.  Campers may also bring money for the International Marketplace, but your child’s teacher cannot be responsible for the money.  If your child brings a brown-bag lunch, please make sure to label that with first and last name, too.

Please do not allow your child to bring electronic devices such as an ipod, Gameboy, ipods, ipads, or cell phone to Heritage Camp.  FFIC, Forest Hills Public Schools and/or Knapp Forest Elementary School cannot be held responsible for missing or damaged electronic devices.  If your child must bring a cell phone, it must be turned off and left in a backpack/book bag during the day. (Cell phone service at this school is horrible.) Mr. Miller may have different requirements for Teen Campers J

Parade of Nations:  The PON has undergone some changes for 2013. Heritage Camp is so big, and we are grateful for all our campers and volunteers, that we simply cannot have everyone gather in the gym.  We violated Fire Code last year and it can’t happen again this year.  So, PON will begin at 1:30 on Friday, June 21.with weather permitting, the parade will happen outside. We will then convene on the soccer field behind the school to sing the “Camp Song” and have Closing Ceremonies.    More information will be available during Camp week. Your child may wear a “Cultural Outfit” or their Camp T-shirt. 

Facebook:  FFIC Heritage Camp has a Facebook page; check it out.  We also have an awesome web-site that includes a blog.  We will make every attempt to keep the blog up-dated, but we are technologically impaired J

More questions?  Feel free to contact us at:

Cathy Wood 616.260.7195   616.365.0916  amycathydave@comcast.net
Pam Eggers 616.460.6080  pam@thinkboxcreative.com

Saturday, April 13, 2013

Heritage Camp 2013; Dates and Changes

Heritage Camp 2013

Heritage Camp will be held June 18-21, 2013

Opening Ceremonies will be June 18 at 1:30.  This is a change from previous years, when Opening Ceremonies were held in the morning.

Heritage Camp Picnic will be Wednesday, June 19, 2013.  

Parade of  Nations and Closing Ceremonies will be held Friday, June 21.  The Parade of Nations will begin at 1:30.

The International Market Place will be open for a short time after Parade of Nations.


Heritage Camp 2013 Information


Heritage Camp 2013

     Planning for Heritage Camp 2013 is well under way, and we are all looking forward to another wonderful year.
     Registration closed April 1, and our amazing Registration Coordinator, John Bekker, has already sent lists of registered campers to the Camp Directors and Camp Coordinators.  Now the individual Camp planning really begins.  The Camp Coordinators will begin meeting with their classroom leaders to plan activities, order supplies, and get ready for action. Soon, our Kitchen Coordinator will start ordering food, including the beef used to prepare everyone’s favorite dish; Bulgogi!
     The design for the Heritage Camp 2013 t-shirt will be selected in late April, but…the winner won’t know who they are until everyone sees the shirt!! 
     Mark your calendar for the Heritage Camp 2013 Picnic; Wednesday, June 19, 2013.  Please be sure to join us for fun, food, and the chance to make new friends.

We still need volunteers for Heritage Camp 2013, though, so please consider helping make Heritage Camp 2013 even more successful by serving as: 

Opening/Closing Ceremonies Coordinator:  This person will organize country flags, make sure there is a flag bearer for each flag, and announce each country as its flag enters/exits Heritage Camp 2013. (We might even be able to find someone to do the mic work if you are shy J)

Multicultural Games Coordinator: This is the position for someone who wants to play games all day.  There is a giant binder of suggested games, but if you have ideas, they are welcome, too!  Over the course of Heritage Camp, each Camp, or group of Camps (China, Korea, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Global, Preschool) will spend time in the gym playing games native to the country.

Camp Directors in Training for Heritage Camp 2014: This is my last year, and Pam will be done after Heritage Camp 2014.  We have served as Camp Directors for the past five years, which is not what is supposed to happen.  The original plan was that each Camp Director served two years, but due to a lack of volunteers, and our immense love of Heritage Camp, Pam and I have continued to serve in this position.  When I say “immense love” I am SERIOUS.  I have been a Heritage Camp Volunteer for 13 years, and seven of those years have been as Camp Director; you can see that the job will not kill you J  Consider joining Pam and I to finish the Heritage Camp 2013 year, and work with Pam for the Heritage Camp 2014 year.  Like the Peace Corp (but closer to home), it’s the toughest job you’ll ever love!!  Truthfully, if you have a great co-worker, it’s not even a tough job!

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

T-Shirt Designs Needed :)


Needed:  Your design for the Heritage Camp 2013 t-shirt.
Create a design that makes you think of Heritage Camp, 
draw it on a piece of 8 x 11 paper, and send it to me.
Remember, your design can only be printed in one
color, but you are welcome to send in colorful designs.
Please be sure to include "Heritage Camp 2013" in 
your design.

I need to receive your design by April 25, 2103.


Send your design to:

Cathy Wood
1889 Orchard Lane NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49505

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

T-Shirt Artists

Calling all T-shirt artists!!


We are still accepting t-shirt designs for the Heritage Camp 2013 t-shirt.  If you are going to be a camper at Heritage Camp this year, and you like to draw, here is your chance to have 300+  people wear your design.

Send in your design, on  8 x 11 paper, to the address below.  I must have your design by April 20, 2013.  Your design needs to include the words "Heritage Camp 2013", but the rest is left up to your imagination.  Please remember, your design will be printed in one color of ink, usually black or white. Ink colors will depend on the t-shirt color, but multiple colors of ink make the shirts too expensive.  

Please send your design to :

Families for International Childern 
Cathy Wood
P.O. Box 2053
Grand Rapids, MI  49501

We will be selecting a design at our next Heritage Camp Coordinators meeting, which is April 27. So, get out your paper, markers, sense of fun, and submit a design for this year's t-shirt!!


Monday, March 11, 2013

Heritage Camp 2013 Dates to Remember

Heritage Camp 2013

Dates to Remember:



Registration - March 1 through April 1, 2013 

*We will not take registrations after April 1*


T-Shirt Designs need to be submitted by April 15, 2103.


Next Coordinators Meeting - April 27, 2103


Heritage Camp - June 18-21



Come join the fun; you can register on-line at the link below: 

http://www.fficgr.org/camp.html

Friday, March 8, 2013

T-Shirt Designs!

Heritage Camp campers, we need YOU!! 

 Last year, we used the FFIC logo to celebrate our 25th year of Heritage Camp.  This year, we are searching for a t-shirt design drawn by you!!  

If you attend Heritage Camp, any camp from Preschool to Teen Camp, and you like to draw, here is what you need to do:


Draw a design  you think represents the spirit of Heritage Camp. 
*Remember, your drawing can be colorful, but the winning design can only be printed in one color.* 

Send your design to me at the address below.

Cross your fingers.

Send your design in by April 15, 2013.

Thanks, and Good Luck!

Cathy Wood
1889 Orchard Lane NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49505


Thursday, February 28, 2013

Heritage Camp Registration is Open!!

Are you ready for  a week of fun, food, music, art, and friends?  Then you should attend FFIC Heritage Camp 2013!  The dates are June 18-21, and Heritage Camp will be held at Knapp Forest Elementary School.

Go to the link below to register.  We will not be mailing registration materials this year, but you are free to register on-line or print and mail the registration forms.  All the information you need is on the FFIC web-site.

Heritage Camp 2013 registration is open from March 1 to April 1.  

Don't forget to register to volunteer, too. FFIC Heritage Camp is the only all volunteer camp in Michigan!  Wouldn't you like to be part our great group of volunteers? 

http://www.fficgr.org/heritagecampsignup.html

Thursday, February 21, 2013

A Call for Artists!

We need YOU to design the t-shirt for Heritage Camp 2013. Draw your t-shirt design on an 8x11 sheet of plain white paper, and send it to the address below.  Your design should reflect the feeling of "Many Cultures, One World"; that Heritage Camp is a mix of many cultures.  Your design can only be printed in one color, so please keep that in mind as you create your design.

We need your design by April 10, 2013.  If your design is chosen, we will all be wearing your art work at Heritage Camp this year.  You will also be awarded a $25 gift certificate!  If you ask any of the past winners they will tell you that it's pretty cool to see your design being worn by hundreds of campers.

Send those designs to:

Cathy Wood
1889 Orchard Lane NE
Grand Rapids MI 49505


Thanks!

Cathy

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Heritage Camp Meeting Reminder

The first meeting for Heritage Camp 2013 will be this Saturday, February 23, 2013.  We will meet at my house; if you need directions please e-mail me :)  The meeting will start at 9:30, with a goal of being done at 11:00.  I know Saturdays are busy!

Although we still need several volunteers in leadership positions, I am happy to say that we do have a Preschool Camp Coordinator, and a Picnic Coordinator!!!   We are still desperately seeking two Camp Directors "in training", and a Global Camp Coordinator "in training".  Spread the word!!

Looking forward to seeing everyone on Saturday!  I'll have coffee and bagels.

Thanks,
Cathy

Monday, February 11, 2013

Heritage Camp 2013

The first meeting for Heritage Camp 2013 will be held Saturday, February 23, 2013.  We will be meeting at my house; please e-mail me if you need directions.  Let's start the meeting at 9:30 - I will have coffee and "stuff" to eat.

If you can't attend, don't worry!  I'll send minutes of the meeting.  We are, however, still in need of several Camp Coordinators.  If you know of anyone interested in helping make Heritage Camp 2013 an amazing experience  for our campers, please let me or Pam Eggers know, and feel free to invite them to the meeting.  I have plenty of coffee cups :)

Thanks,
Cathy Wood

Friday, January 25, 2013

Heritage Camp 2013

It's official; Heritage Camp will once again be happening at Knapp Forest Elementary School.  The dates for Heritage Camp are June 18-21, 2013.  I'm very excited to be returning to Knapp Forest; it is a good fit for the majority of our campers.

As Pam and I begin to plan for Heritage Camp 2013, there are several positions that are in need of a volunteer.  FFIC Heritage Camp is an "All Volunteer" camp, and we can't have a camp without volunteers.  Listed below are the current openings we need to fill for Heritage Camp 2013:

Two Camp Co-Directors "In Training"- It is SO important that we find a couple of people willing to work with Pam and I this year.  We will show you "the way of the camp"; we will guide you this year, but there is truly a need for two, or three, people to start the process this year.  Please contact me at amycathydave@comcast.net if you are interested.  This is a job that takes an hour or two a week from January through May.  June is a little more intense as final touches are put into place.  It's actually fun, but it is time for me to go.  New people may have incredible new ideas!!

Preschool Camp Coordinator: We have a curriculum, you would not need to "reinvent the wheel".  Of course, you are not tied to the lessons/activities already in place, but take comfort in knowing you wouldn't need to create your own lessons.

Gym Teacher: One or two adults who enjoy playing "multi-cultural games" with an awesome group of kids! You will get the undying love of the kids, a cool t-shirt, and lunch every day :)

Playground Coordinator: You will write a schedule for your Playground Volunteers, and serve as a Playground "worker" yourself, if you'd like.  This position would take about 2 hours prior to Heritage Camp to schedule the volunteers, then, preferably, being on-site at Heritage Camp Tuesday through Friday.  

Picnic Coordinator:  You will purchase food (hot dogs, condiments) and "table service" for the FFIC picnic held on Wednesday of Heritage Camp week.  You would also be responsible for set up, cooking the dogs, and clean up, BUT, you can recruit volunteers to help you!!  I will reserve the park in March, and we have a list of what has been purchased in the past.  We will provide you with a check and a tax-exempt number.  This is a ONE DAY Volunteer position.  The time investment is about six hours spread out over the day.  Food for the picnic is purchased the day of the picnic.

Opening/Closing Ceremonies Coordinator: This is a short-term position, too.  You would be responsible for coordinating flags of countries and campers to carry the flags.  We have the flags, we have a way to display the flags, so this is fairly easy.  

Global Camp Coordinator "In Training": Global Camp is our newest Camp!!  We have an awesome  Coordinator, and you will love working with her.  This is a great chance to help expand Global Camp, which we think is a very exciting opportunity.  Global Camp currently has campers from Ethiopia, Thailand, St. Vincent, and Haiti. (I know I'm missing a couple of countries!)

Heritage Camp is a wonderful place to be; kids and Adult Volunteers love, and benefit from, the experience.  We are ALL volunteers. so there is NO special training required.  All you need is a love for kids, a desire to help create a positive experience for kids, and a few extra hours.

If you  are interested in volunteering at Heritage Camp, please contact Pam or me at the e-mails below!!  Thanks!

Cathy Wood   amycathydave@ comcast.net
                       cwood@lowelleducation.com   (please put Heritage Camp in the subject line)

Pam Eggers     pam@thinkboxcreative.com