Promoting Better Mental Health for Kids at Camp Whitcomb/Mason
Visiting The Greater Milwaukee Boys and Girls Club at Camp Whitcomb/Mason in Hartland, WI, was a breath of fresh air, quite literally. This haven, nestled away from the hustle and bustle of city life, offers a unique escape for children, particularly those from Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS). The well-managed camp, run by Camp Executive Director Sarah Resch, serves as a testament to the impact that the great outdoors and a supportive community can have on the mental health of youth.
An Environment of Growth and Friendship
At Camp Whitcomb, the emphasis is on real-world interactions and experiences. Observing the camp, I noted how refreshing it was to see "kids being kids" in the old-fashioned sense, away from their screens. This screen-free environment is critical because it fosters social connections and friendships, a vital aspect of mental health.
For instance, I met Deonte, a young camper with a tree frog in his hand, who shared, “My favorite part of being at camp is being outside in nature.” His sentiment is echoed by many campers who love activities like swimming, fishing, canoeing, and art projects. The camp also encourages new friendships, as seen with Brie from The Milwaukee School of Language and Elizabeth from Hamilton Sussex, whose happiness in each other’s company was evident from the smiles on their faces.
The Impact of Dedicated Staff
One of the standout features of Camp Whitcomb/Mason is its dedicated staff, many of whom are former campers themselves. One such counselor, affectionately known as “Showtime,” shared his journey: “Camp gave me so much as a child; it gave me the opportunity to be myself.” Now, he is committed to giving back, fostering a sense of belonging and joy among the current campers.
With a team of 74 well-trained counselors, including many AmeriCorps members, Camp Whitcomb/Mason offers a supportive, structured environment that gives campers the freedom to discover new friends and interests. This nurturing setting helps young people navigate the challenges of being a pre-teen, ensuring they have the guidance and care they need to thrive.
Accessibility for MPS Students
A noteworthy aspect of Camp Whitcomb/Mason is its accessibility to youth from the Milwaukee Public Schools, thanks to their partnership with the Greater Milwaukee Boys and Girls Club and funding from Federal ESSER dollars. Sarah Resch noted, “We have dozens and dozens of 10 to 14-year-olds here through our partnership with MPS.” This funding allows many kids to attend the camp at no cost, providing them with an invaluable opportunity to benefit from the camp’s offerings.
While the current funding is temporary, the hope is to secure future funding to continue this vital program. “We are looking for funds to be able to continue because our plan is never to start something that you can't continue, but it is funding contingent,” Resch explained.
A Legacy of Positive Impact
Camp Whitcomb/Mason has a long history of positively impacting children’s lives, having been around for 113 years. The camp’s ability to grow, even post-pandemic, is a testament to its importance and the quality of its programs. The overnight camp now serves over 700 campers per summer (not including kids that attend multiple weeks), and the day camp has almost tripled in size, with up to 150 children participating daily.
In this modern era of social media, video games, and screens everywhere, this Boys and Girls Club Camp stands out as a model for how youth can make the social connections that are vital to their mental health. It offers a rare combination of nature, community, and support that enhances the well-being of its campers. As Showtime aptly put it, “Camp gave me so much as a child… a new space to flourish and make friends and create lasting relationships.” In 2024, this camp continues to give kids the same invaluable experiences that promote a healthy future for all who attend.