February Chanco Chatter

In This Issue:

Lenten Retreat: Parables & Paintings

Summer Camp Open House

Spring Work Weekend

Refer a Friend and Win Big

We Are Hiring for Summer Staff

Be a Part of the Cursillo Ministry

Rekindle the Joy of Friendship

Reserve Your Spot in the Lenten Retreat

March 15–16

We extend a warm invitation to our upcoming Lenten Retreat, "Parables & Paintings." As we delve into the profound teachings of Jesus through the lens of James B. Janknegt's evocative paintings, we anticipate meaningful conversations and spiritual growth. Participants will engage with four distinct parables in both large and small group settings, fostering a vibrant atmosphere of fellowship and reflection during the Lenten Season. Designed for ages 16 and above, this retreat promises a dynamic program featuring various activities aimed at deepening our understanding of these timeless teachings.

Leading our retreat is the The Very Rev. Keith Emerson, Rector at St. Paul's Suffolk, whose insightful facilitation promises to enrich our exploration. Additionally, we are delighted to welcome The Rev. Melody Perdue, Associate Rector at Eastern Shore Chapel, who will guide us through uplifting music and worship sessions. Together, under their guidance, we anticipate a spiritually enriching experience that will resonate long after the retreat concludes.

The Very Rev. Dr. Keith Emerson talks about this year's Lenten Retreat. [VIDEO]

Summer Camp Open House!

April 13 • 1–5 p.m.

Summer Camp at Chanco on the James is an unparalleled experience with a history dating back over 50 years! What makes us so special? Not only are we located on the banks of the James River with a breathtaking natural backdrop for adventures, we have diverse program offerings that cater to the different interests of kids and we offer campers opportunities for spiritual growth, reflection and exploration of faith. Oh, and we have won the "Best Summer Camp" in Virginia Living Magazine's "Best of" every year since 2014!

Join us for our open house event, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chanco and explore all that awaits you. Meet our enthusiastic counselors, traverse our picturesque grounds, indulge in complimentary hot dogs, test your archery skills, take a hayride and, perhaps even challenge your courage as you soar through the treetops on our exhilarating zip line.

Don't miss this opportunity to glimpse the magic of Chanco's summer camp firsthand—come see what all the excitement is about!

For more information please call 888-724-2626

Spring Work Weekend

April 26–28

Join us for an exciting and fulfilling weekend at Chanco during our Spring Work Weekend! This is a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with old friends, forge new friendships, and give back to the Chanco community by lending a helping hand with various spring projects. Whether you're passionate about outdoor activities, maintenance tasks, or simply enjoy socializing, there's something for everyone to enjoy during this rejuvenating weekend.

In addition to the array of projects, a main focus for our Spring Work Weekend will be the continuation of crafting a comprehensive trail system tailored to accommodating guests of all physical abilities. We invite you to bring your tools and enthusiasm to contribute to this important endeavor.

Join us for the entire weekend to partake in evening social gatherings or opt to join us on Saturday for a day of productive work starting at 9 a.m. Whether you come solo or with your family, all are warmly welcomed to participate. Be sure to register early to secure your spot and take advantage of our complimentary overnight accommodation in chalets or Watson Lodge!

Refer a Friend and Win Big!

Do you have friends who are still undecided about their summer plans? Now is the perfect time to introduce them to the magic of Camp Chanco. Refer a friend to sign up for one of Chanco's 2024 Summer Camp Sessions, and both of you will win big! Your referral wins you $100 of Chanco Bucks to redeem on anything Chanco—apply it towards your registration fees or discounts or bring it to camp for use in the camp store!

How it Works

Spread the Word: Tell your friends about the incredible summer experiences awaiting them at Camp Chanco.
They Sign Up: Your friend registers for one of Chanco's 2024 Summer Camp Sessions.
Mention You: During the registration process, your friend mentions your name as the referrer.
You Both Win: You receive $100 of Chanco Bucks, and your friend gets ready for an unforgettable Chanco summer!

Call (888) 724-2626, or email us at hospitality@chanco.org

to learn more and start referring your friends today!

We Are Hiring for Summer Staff!

We are looking for staff who love the outdoors, love working with kids and are devoted Christian counselors who want to make an impactful experience for campers. If that sounds like you or someone you know, come join us at camp Chanco!

Positions include housing, meals, training and pay well for the summer with additional work opportunities. You must be at least 17 years old by June 24 to apply.

Please email programs@chanco.org for more information or apply now!

Positions Available Include

Kitchen Staff

Counselor

Ropes Instructor

Lifeguard

Nature Instructor

Arts and Crafts Instructor

Apply Now

Be a Part of the Cursillo Ministry

April 25–28

Cursillo, a transformative ministry of the Episcopal Church, aims to empower adult Christian leaders through a short course in Christian life. Our 5 diocesan Initiatives align perfectly with Cursillo and we encourage you to register for Cursillo #172 held at Chanco on the James. Attending Cursillo will inspire you to serve your church with renewed commitment!

Initiative 1: Rule of Life

Cursillo echos this through Piety, Study and Apostolic Action

Initiative 2: Connection

Cursillo endorses group support for individual spiritual journeys through small groups and attending Ultreya.

Initiative 3: Becoming Beloved

Cursillo supports this by faithful attendance to group.

Initiative 4: Creation Care

Cursillo members support this by caring for our churches.

Initiative 5: Evangelism

Cursillo supports this through story-sharing in talks aiming to attract others to Christ.

Please contact Karey Sitzer at bratsche55@gmail.com with any questions.

Learn More About Cursillo

Rekindle the Joy of Friendship!

May 10–12

Are you ready to relive the laughter, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories of summers past? Join us for a weekend of fun and fellowship at this year's Alumni Weekend! It's the perfect opportunity to reconnect with old friends and reminisce about the cherished moments we shared at Camp Chanco.

Get ready to dive back into the excitement with a lineup of our classic camp activities. And what's a reunion without music? Enjoy live performances on the Bluff, adding the perfect soundtrack to our gatherings.

Whether you prefer the comfort of a private room or the cozy camaraderie of a shared space, we have accommodation options to suit your preferences. Choose from a shared motel-style room, a private room to yourself, or the rustic charm of chalet camping.

Accommodation Options

Shared Room $140 • Private Room $220 • Chalet $100

Please contact Marjorie Gay at hospitality@chanco.org

or call us at 888-724-2626 with any questions.

New Policies at Chanco

Beginning January 1, 2024, the Chanco Board has made a decision to introduce a small convenience fee on all credit card payments for both camps and retreats. This 3% fee is a modest adjustment that will help us continue to provide you with exceptional service and maintain the high standards that make Chanco a cherished destination.

We understand that change can sometimes be met with questions, and we want to assure you that this decision was made after careful consideration and with your best interests at heart. The convenience fee will directly offset the fees that Chanco incurs when accepting credit card transactions. You may avoid this fee by making your payment by check or cash.

We want to express our gratitude for your continued support, trust, and dedication to the Chanco community. Your participation in our camps and retreats has played a crucial role in shaping the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere that defines Chanco. Thank you for being an integral part of the Chanco family, and we can't wait to create more wonderful memories together in 2024!